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A Chocolate Whisperer Mystery #3
The Semi-Sweet Hereafter
Hayden Mundy Moore is an expert on everything chocolate, helping clients develop new products and revamp recipes until they're irresistible. But sometimes, a dash of murder finds its way into the mix...
Chocolate whisperer Hayden Mundy Moore is in London to lend her expertise to high-street chocolaterie-pâtisserie Primrose. Nothing more. Really! But when a famous culinary bad boy is found dead under suspicious circumstances (in her lodgings!), Hayden's eagerness not to be involved (this time) makes her the prime suspect in the ensuing investigation.
Chocolate whisperer Hayden Mundy Moore is in London to lend her expertise to high-street chocolaterie-pâtisserie Primrose. Nothing more. Really! But when a famous culinary bad boy is found dead under suspicious circumstances (in her lodgings!), Hayden's eagerness not to be involved (this time) makes her the prime suspect in the ensuing investigation.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 27, 2016
11 people are currently reading
616 people want to read
About the author
Colette London
9 books123 followersColette London is the pseudonym of a best-selling novelist who’s published more than three dozen books worldwide. Her Chocolate Whisperer series from Kensington Books features Criminal Confections, Dangerously Dark, and The Semi-Sweet Hereafter, and will continue with Dead and Ganache in October 2017.
Visit Colette on the web at colettelondon.com, friend her on Facebook at facebook.com/colette.london.books, follow her on Twitter @ twitter.com/Colette__London, or circle her on Google+ at google.com/+Colettelondonbooks today.
Visit Colette on the web at colettelondon.com, friend her on Facebook at facebook.com/colette.london.books, follow her on Twitter @ twitter.com/Colette__London, or circle her on Google+ at google.com/+Colettelondonbooks today.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 22, 2016
* I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review *
Hayden Mundy Moore is a "chocolate whisperer", AKA an expert on all things chocolate. She works as a business consultant, fixing mistakes in recipes, tweaking desserts, and training staff. In this book, Hayden is in London helping The Honorable Phoebe Wright at her chocolaterie-pâtisserie, Primrose. While working at Primrose, Hayden is staying in Phoebe and her husband, sexy star chef Jeremy's guest house. When she comes in one night to find Jeremy bludgeoned to death on the kitchen floor, she calls th police right away. But this isn't Hayden's first run in with murder, and that makes her a prime suspect, even if she barely knew the victim. With her friends, sexy body guard Danny and phone in only financial advisor Travis, Hayden is going to prove that she is as sweet as chocolate and definitely not a murderer.
This is book 3 in The Chocolate Whisperer Mystery series by Colette London. I have not read the other two books in this series and I really wish I had. I did feel as if I missed out on some of the chemistry building moments between Hayden, Danny, and Travis. That being said, I really enjoyed this story. Hayden was a strong, smart female lead. She knew when to call in back-up or the police. Her chemistry with Danny was fantastic and his character was multi-dimensional and abundantly back storied. In this one you really didn't get too much interaction from the other member of the team, Travis. I guess he is sort of like Charlie to Charlie's Angels. A voice on the phone. It was a little weird.
The mystery was really good with a lot of suspects who had good motives to want Jeremy dead. I guess Hayden hadn't been so smart in the first two books, because in this one she is bound and determined to suspect everyone and not trust anything. I think that is great for our amateur sleuth. Too often they are TSTL and so naïve. I only had an idea of the culprit, but I wasn't even close on the motive. I loved that.
There is a little too much chocolate in this book. I never thought I could possibly think such a thing, and it is called The Chocolate Whisperer Mystery series, but all the technical terms and descriptions got to be a little overwhelming. I mean I do not need to know the Latin name for this or that. It was helpful that she included American translations after certain British phrases though. I knew most of them, but a lot of people might not.
If you like cozy mysteries you will like this book. You will especially like this book if you like cozy mysteries and chocolate! I really recommend it.
Hayden Mundy Moore is a "chocolate whisperer", AKA an expert on all things chocolate. She works as a business consultant, fixing mistakes in recipes, tweaking desserts, and training staff. In this book, Hayden is in London helping The Honorable Phoebe Wright at her chocolaterie-pâtisserie, Primrose. While working at Primrose, Hayden is staying in Phoebe and her husband, sexy star chef Jeremy's guest house. When she comes in one night to find Jeremy bludgeoned to death on the kitchen floor, she calls th police right away. But this isn't Hayden's first run in with murder, and that makes her a prime suspect, even if she barely knew the victim. With her friends, sexy body guard Danny and phone in only financial advisor Travis, Hayden is going to prove that she is as sweet as chocolate and definitely not a murderer.
This is book 3 in The Chocolate Whisperer Mystery series by Colette London. I have not read the other two books in this series and I really wish I had. I did feel as if I missed out on some of the chemistry building moments between Hayden, Danny, and Travis. That being said, I really enjoyed this story. Hayden was a strong, smart female lead. She knew when to call in back-up or the police. Her chemistry with Danny was fantastic and his character was multi-dimensional and abundantly back storied. In this one you really didn't get too much interaction from the other member of the team, Travis. I guess he is sort of like Charlie to Charlie's Angels. A voice on the phone. It was a little weird.
The mystery was really good with a lot of suspects who had good motives to want Jeremy dead. I guess Hayden hadn't been so smart in the first two books, because in this one she is bound and determined to suspect everyone and not trust anything. I think that is great for our amateur sleuth. Too often they are TSTL and so naïve. I only had an idea of the culprit, but I wasn't even close on the motive. I loved that.
There is a little too much chocolate in this book. I never thought I could possibly think such a thing, and it is called The Chocolate Whisperer Mystery series, but all the technical terms and descriptions got to be a little overwhelming. I mean I do not need to know the Latin name for this or that. It was helpful that she included American translations after certain British phrases though. I knew most of them, but a lot of people might not.
If you like cozy mysteries you will like this book. You will especially like this book if you like cozy mysteries and chocolate! I really recommend it.
October 26, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was really looking forward to reading this one. After all, who doesn't love chocolate with their mystery? Once you've read one chocolate whisperer book, it's like you've read them all with a slightly different plot. I'm not having much luck in finding cozies that I can brag about this year. I get sucked in by the cute cover and can't resist. This was a fun and fluffy read and Hayden is an unusual sleuth uncovering a dead body while on a job assignment to make the perfect chocolate in all forms. This gets three stars from me because while I liked it, this didn't give me that wanna read the next one feeling. :(
I was really looking forward to reading this one. After all, who doesn't love chocolate with their mystery? Once you've read one chocolate whisperer book, it's like you've read them all with a slightly different plot. I'm not having much luck in finding cozies that I can brag about this year. I get sucked in by the cute cover and can't resist. This was a fun and fluffy read and Hayden is an unusual sleuth uncovering a dead body while on a job assignment to make the perfect chocolate in all forms. This gets three stars from me because while I liked it, this didn't give me that wanna read the next one feeling. :(
March 27, 2017
Hayden Mundy Moore's latest adventure has taken her to London, to consult for a posh chocolaterie-pâtisserie. Her mission: to teach the green staff all they need to know about baking with chocolate. The shop owner, Phoebe Wright, comes from the upper crust and barely knows her way around a kitchen. Her husband, Jeremy Wright, is a celebrity chef who worked his way up from public housing. When Hayden discovers Jeremy lying dead in the guesthouse, she inadvertently becomes a chief suspect when she identifies the murder weapon. Hayden is determined to solve the mystery and clear her name. THIS time she hopes to stay one step ahead of the killer. Is it Liam, the personal trainer who is against everything that tastes good; or Nicola, the personal assistant? Could it be Hugh, the apprentice with a temper or culinary rival, the sexy Gemma Rose? With Danny at her back, Hayden explores London from the posh shop, to tourist pub to public housing to smoke out the killer.
I didn't enjoy this story as much as the previous books. I figured out who did it very quickly. It was too obvious as to who though I didn't really know why. Hayden should have known and the police probably did know but couldn't prove it. Hayden gets more involved here to spite Travis and Danny as much as to clear her own name. I found her actions a little immature and crazy. However, I did like how she acknowledged the danger and need to be careful. I still like her as a heroine and on the plus side, there's tons more about chocolate here. Hayden teaches Phoebe to make chocolate versions of classic British sweets. Yes please! Hayden also includes cooking terms and recipe hints within the story. I was hoping for a little more London in this novel. It was hard to remember the characters were supposed to be British.
The relationship between Hayden and Danny becomes very intense. I think he loves her but they think they can't act on the chemistry for various reasons. Her relationship with Travis also reaches a new level, though they've never met. I'm not crazy about the relationship stuff. I am happy to read about a single woman who is happy to be single and pursuing her passion.
None of the secondary characters are interesting or likable.
Even with the faults, I want more of the Chocolate Whisperer because... hello... chocolate!
I didn't enjoy this story as much as the previous books. I figured out who did it very quickly. It was too obvious as to who though I didn't really know why. Hayden should have known and the police probably did know but couldn't prove it. Hayden gets more involved here to spite Travis and Danny as much as to clear her own name. I found her actions a little immature and crazy. However, I did like how she acknowledged the danger and need to be careful. I still like her as a heroine and on the plus side, there's tons more about chocolate here. Hayden teaches Phoebe to make chocolate versions of classic British sweets. Yes please! Hayden also includes cooking terms and recipe hints within the story. I was hoping for a little more London in this novel. It was hard to remember the characters were supposed to be British.
The relationship between Hayden and Danny becomes very intense. I think he loves her but they think they can't act on the chemistry for various reasons. Her relationship with Travis also reaches a new level, though they've never met. I'm not crazy about the relationship stuff. I am happy to read about a single woman who is happy to be single and pursuing her passion.
None of the secondary characters are interesting or likable.
Even with the faults, I want more of the Chocolate Whisperer because... hello... chocolate!
July 16, 2017
Hayden Mundy Moore is a "chocolate whisperer", AKA an expert on all things chocolate. She works as a consultant, with chocolate businesses that are having problems whether it is recipes, techniques or staff training. Hayden is in London helping The Honorable Phoebe Wright at her chocolaterie-pâtisserie, Primrose. Phoebe has put Hayden up at her guest house while she is there. When Hayden comes home one night shortly after her arrival in London, she finds sexy star chef Jeremy, who also happens to be Phoebe's husband, dead on the kitchen floor in the guesthouse. She immediately calls the police, but as this is not the first murder she has been involved in, she becomes a suspect. She calls her friend and bodyguard Danny, who hotfoots it to London to watch over her. He knows, Hayden is going to try and figure out who the murderer is.
I was really looking forward to reading this one, I mean chocolate with a mystery? Alas, it did not hold my attention like I had hoped. I am not sure why, it was a fun read and off course Hayden bumbles through and eventually figures out who the murderer is, but for some reason I kept falling asleep whenever I tried to read it. I am not sure if I will continue with this series or not.
I was really looking forward to reading this one, I mean chocolate with a mystery? Alas, it did not hold my attention like I had hoped. I am not sure why, it was a fun read and off course Hayden bumbles through and eventually figures out who the murderer is, but for some reason I kept falling asleep whenever I tried to read it. I am not sure if I will continue with this series or not.
July 4, 2017
Questa serie è pericolosa: gronda cioccolata da tutte le pagine! Si ingrassa di qualche kg solo a leggerla...
In più, questo libro è ambientato a Londra, città che mi ha affascinato non appena ci ho messo piede. Non la conosco benissimo, ma mi sono sentita spesso a casa, sentendo i posti nominati nel corso della storia.
Buon giallo, con tanti sospetti e una soluzione che è stata in gran parte una sorpresa per me. Vorrei capire come evolverà la storia fra la protagonista e i suoi due "amici" Danny e Travis perché sembra che possa esserci uno sviluppo più romantico all'orizzonte, ma non è ben chiaro.
Questa serie mi piace anche perché si viaggia: San Francisco, Portland, Londra e la prossima volta tocca alla Francia. I nostri eroi verranno anche in Italia?
In più, questo libro è ambientato a Londra, città che mi ha affascinato non appena ci ho messo piede. Non la conosco benissimo, ma mi sono sentita spesso a casa, sentendo i posti nominati nel corso della storia.
Buon giallo, con tanti sospetti e una soluzione che è stata in gran parte una sorpresa per me. Vorrei capire come evolverà la storia fra la protagonista e i suoi due "amici" Danny e Travis perché sembra che possa esserci uno sviluppo più romantico all'orizzonte, ma non è ben chiaro.
Questa serie mi piace anche perché si viaggia: San Francisco, Portland, Londra e la prossima volta tocca alla Francia. I nostri eroi verranno anche in Italia?
March 12, 2019
I liked the book. Not as good as the last one in the series but still an entertaining cozy mystery.
The story just started too slowly. It started getting interesting somewhere in the middle. Before there was too much talk about Hayden, the narrator, whom I kind of dislike. She is really an annoying, full of herself person. So I rather read about her solving mysteries than talk about her life and how great she is.
The whole crime story was pretty good. I didn't figure out who did it and I like how this time it was made sure that the ending won't be the same as in the other two books. The narrator even kept on talking how she shouldn't make the same mistakes as before. Good call!
The story just started too slowly. It started getting interesting somewhere in the middle. Before there was too much talk about Hayden, the narrator, whom I kind of dislike. She is really an annoying, full of herself person. So I rather read about her solving mysteries than talk about her life and how great she is.
The whole crime story was pretty good. I didn't figure out who did it and I like how this time it was made sure that the ending won't be the same as in the other two books. The narrator even kept on talking how she shouldn't make the same mistakes as before. Good call!
February 6, 2017
Synopsis:
As an authority on all things chocolate, Hayden Mundy Moore is traveling across the pond to lend her expertise to the owner of a posh London chocolaterie-pâtisserie. From coconut truffles to chocolate flapjacks, Hayden’s mouthwatering creations quickly impress her client. But her knowledge doesn’t end there. The detective constable is taken by surprise when she identifies an exotic murder weapon: a stone metlapil, used to grind cacao beans—and apparently to bludgeon someone to death—in Hayden’s own lodgings, no less…
The victim is a sexy celebrity chef who just happens to be the ex-husband of Hayden’s client. Now, amid the terraced town houses and local pubs, a killer is lurking—and the police have an assortment of suspects: a culinary rival, an ambitious agent, a recently-sacked assistant, and unfortunately, Hayden herself. The talented chocolate whisperer will have to find out what sort of nutter clobbered the famous cook—or her career may come to a bitter end… (Goodreads)
Review:
The mystery was well plotted and there were enough suspects to consider to keep this reader guessing throughout the book. Add in a slew of clues and some red herrings thrown in just for fun and I was not completely sure of the killer until it was revealed at the end.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book, I felt like I was right there watching all the action taking place around me. Sometimes I felt that there was too much information given, especially when it came to chocolate. I appreciate that the author has so much knowledge about chocolate, but sometimes I felt overwhelmed. That is only my opinion and other readers may not agree with me.
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy a well crafted cozy mystery. If you like learning about chocolate or London, you should really enjoy this book.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
As an authority on all things chocolate, Hayden Mundy Moore is traveling across the pond to lend her expertise to the owner of a posh London chocolaterie-pâtisserie. From coconut truffles to chocolate flapjacks, Hayden’s mouthwatering creations quickly impress her client. But her knowledge doesn’t end there. The detective constable is taken by surprise when she identifies an exotic murder weapon: a stone metlapil, used to grind cacao beans—and apparently to bludgeon someone to death—in Hayden’s own lodgings, no less…
The victim is a sexy celebrity chef who just happens to be the ex-husband of Hayden’s client. Now, amid the terraced town houses and local pubs, a killer is lurking—and the police have an assortment of suspects: a culinary rival, an ambitious agent, a recently-sacked assistant, and unfortunately, Hayden herself. The talented chocolate whisperer will have to find out what sort of nutter clobbered the famous cook—or her career may come to a bitter end… (Goodreads)
Review:
The mystery was well plotted and there were enough suspects to consider to keep this reader guessing throughout the book. Add in a slew of clues and some red herrings thrown in just for fun and I was not completely sure of the killer until it was revealed at the end.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book, I felt like I was right there watching all the action taking place around me. Sometimes I felt that there was too much information given, especially when it came to chocolate. I appreciate that the author has so much knowledge about chocolate, but sometimes I felt overwhelmed. That is only my opinion and other readers may not agree with me.
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy a well crafted cozy mystery. If you like learning about chocolate or London, you should really enjoy this book.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
August 19, 2016
The Semi-Sweet Hereafter is the third book in Colette London's Chocolate Whisperer mystery series. This is the second book I’ve read in this series and I found it entertaining and the mystery intriguing. The characters are colorful and entertaining and I was kept guessing “whodunit” until the reveal. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading a well-crafted cozy mystery but suggest you read Criminal Confections and Dangerously Dark, the first two books in this series, for the characters’ backstories.
The main character is Hayden Mundy Moore a/k/a the Chocolate Whisperer and in this installment, she travels to London to work with Phoebe Wright at her chocolaterie-pâtisserie, Primrose, and is staying in Phoebe’s guesthouse. Jeromy Sebastian Wright, Phoebe’s husband, is a world-renowned chef and Hayden finds him on the floor in the guesthouse with his head bashed in. Detective Constable Satya Mishra is in charge of the investigation and believes Hayden to be the suspect. Danny Jamieson, Hayden’s friend and security expert, travels to London to be with her. There are no available hotel rooms because Wimbledon is in town, so Hayden and Danny must stay in the guesthouse even though she is uncomfortable staying where she discovered the body. Hayden, Danny, and Travis Turner, her financial advisor, who is in the states, work together to clear Hayden’s name and find the person responsible.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.
The main character is Hayden Mundy Moore a/k/a the Chocolate Whisperer and in this installment, she travels to London to work with Phoebe Wright at her chocolaterie-pâtisserie, Primrose, and is staying in Phoebe’s guesthouse. Jeromy Sebastian Wright, Phoebe’s husband, is a world-renowned chef and Hayden finds him on the floor in the guesthouse with his head bashed in. Detective Constable Satya Mishra is in charge of the investigation and believes Hayden to be the suspect. Danny Jamieson, Hayden’s friend and security expert, travels to London to be with her. There are no available hotel rooms because Wimbledon is in town, so Hayden and Danny must stay in the guesthouse even though she is uncomfortable staying where she discovered the body. Hayden, Danny, and Travis Turner, her financial advisor, who is in the states, work together to clear Hayden’s name and find the person responsible.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.
September 10, 2016
This is the third book in the Chocolate Whisperer Mysteries by Colette London.
Hayden Mundy Moore, also known as the chocolate whisperer, is back. Doing what she does best, which is helping clients with their chocolate issues.
This time she is in London, working with the wife of a hunky television chef, getting Primrose, a chocolates and bakery shop back on track after business begins slacking off due to her best bakers being lured away. Hayden is brought in to teach, advise and get Primrose back on top.
Staying in the guest house on Phoebe's estate, Hayden is happily doing what she loves. Until she comes home to find a body in the guest house and herself as a suspect.
By now we know Hayden is going to jump on this and find out just who murdered the chef in the guesthouse with a kitchen utensil.
The descriptions of all the delicious chocolate treats was beginning to make my mouth water and that continued throughout the book. And extra points for that Sticky Pudding recipe in the back!
Will Hayden, with a little help from Danny and Travis, find the killer before she becomes a victim?
Grab a cup of tea and a brownie and settle in for a lovely read.
I received this book from Netgalley and Kensington Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Hayden Mundy Moore, also known as the chocolate whisperer, is back. Doing what she does best, which is helping clients with their chocolate issues.
This time she is in London, working with the wife of a hunky television chef, getting Primrose, a chocolates and bakery shop back on track after business begins slacking off due to her best bakers being lured away. Hayden is brought in to teach, advise and get Primrose back on top.
Staying in the guest house on Phoebe's estate, Hayden is happily doing what she loves. Until she comes home to find a body in the guest house and herself as a suspect.
By now we know Hayden is going to jump on this and find out just who murdered the chef in the guesthouse with a kitchen utensil.
The descriptions of all the delicious chocolate treats was beginning to make my mouth water and that continued throughout the book. And extra points for that Sticky Pudding recipe in the back!
Will Hayden, with a little help from Danny and Travis, find the killer before she becomes a victim?
Grab a cup of tea and a brownie and settle in for a lovely read.
I received this book from Netgalley and Kensington Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
August 27, 2016
This is the 3rd book in the series by Colette London. This is the second one I've read and I found it to be entertaining.
Hayden Mundy Moore is an expert on anything and everything chocolate. She is known as the "Chocolate Whisperer," and her unique talent takes her all over the world.
Thanks to a wealthy uncle, Hayden has received quite an inheritance, making her travels an absolute pleasure.
This book has Hayden traveling to London, to give the owner of a chocolaterie-pâtisseri some help.
The last thing Hayden plans on is finding a dead body. The victim is the patisseri owners husband, a well known celebrity. The suspect list is long and Hayden finds herself a suspect. Hayden knows she has to clear her name if she wants to keep her position as the chocolate whisperer.
I enjoy this series and I think other cozy mystery lovers will like it too.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Hayden Mundy Moore is an expert on anything and everything chocolate. She is known as the "Chocolate Whisperer," and her unique talent takes her all over the world.
Thanks to a wealthy uncle, Hayden has received quite an inheritance, making her travels an absolute pleasure.
This book has Hayden traveling to London, to give the owner of a chocolaterie-pâtisseri some help.
The last thing Hayden plans on is finding a dead body. The victim is the patisseri owners husband, a well known celebrity. The suspect list is long and Hayden finds herself a suspect. Hayden knows she has to clear her name if she wants to keep her position as the chocolate whisperer.
I enjoy this series and I think other cozy mystery lovers will like it too.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
September 22, 2016
I have read all three books of this series and had a different opinIons with each one. I found in this book the sentences were not flowing easy and no special chocolate techniques. The techniques are easy to find, elsewhere. I feel that there is a mix up of her London and her chocolate activities. There is a love triangle.
Hayden Mundy Moore is in London to lend her expertise to a hot patisserie that is in trouble. She is staying at her client's guesthouse where she find a dead person. This person happens to be her client's husband. Hayden sets out to find the killer. There are enough twists and turns to keep you wondering.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
Hayden Mundy Moore is in London to lend her expertise to a hot patisserie that is in trouble. She is staying at her client's guesthouse where she find a dead person. This person happens to be her client's husband. Hayden sets out to find the killer. There are enough twists and turns to keep you wondering.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 21, 2016
**I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review**
There is just something about this series. Chocolate, murder, mystery, mouthwatering descriptions of chocolate desserts, it just all works together. Lots of surprises in this one, and that ending was pretty funny. Did I mention there is chocolate?
There is just something about this series. Chocolate, murder, mystery, mouthwatering descriptions of chocolate desserts, it just all works together. Lots of surprises in this one, and that ending was pretty funny. Did I mention there is chocolate?
November 3, 2018
Love the other books in this series. This one was quite good and I enjoyed it. But I found the author's constant describing of British terminology distracting. Felt like I was being talked down to.
October 15, 2016
The Semi-Sweet Hereafter by Colette London is the third book in A Chocolate Whisperer Mystery series. Hayden Mundy Moore is in London on her latest chocolate whisperer assignment. Hayden is there to help Primrose, a chocolaterie-patisserie (bakery specializing in chocolate delicacies) owned by the Honourable Phoebe Wright. Hayden’s job is to find out what is going wrong in the bakery (quality issues) and fix it. Hayden is getting ready to enjoy an evening with friends when she receives a call from Phoebe. Phoebe is asking her to go by Primrose and make sure it is locked up (how is that Hayden’s job). Hayden does not feel she can say no since Phoebe is her boss. Hayden cancels her plans and heads across town. After making sure everything is locked up tight, Hayden heads for her temporary home. Hayden is staying in the guest cottage belonging to Phoebe and her husband, Jeremy. Hayden arrives home to find film equipment in her kitchen and the body of Jeremy Wright on her floor. Hayden quickly calls the police and waits for their questions. Detective Constable Satya Mishra is assigned the case. It turns out that Jeremy was killed with a metlapil, a heavy stone tool used for grinding. When Hayden can tell them the name of the murder weapon and what is used for, it gets her put on the suspect list (do you think she touched it while staying in the guest cottage). Hayden then calls her best friend, Danny Jamieson (and security expert). He quickly catches a plane and heads to London. Jeremy was England’s sexy chef and was quite popular. The press come out in hoards as well as fans. Hayden cannot help but investigate the crime with Danny’s help. Who wanted Britain’s hot chef dead? Turns out the suspect list is longer than some of Hayden’s chocolate recipes. Will Hayden be able to assemble the clues and whip up a killer?
The Semi-Sweet Hereafter sounds good (I thought I did a good job). The reality is a different story. I found it satisfactory. I think the author put more effort into her dessert descriptions than the mystery. The Semi-Sweet Hereafter can be a stand-alone novel. The events of the first two books are rehashed in detail in this novel. As usual we are subjected to many thoughts about Hayden’s financial manager, Travis Turner. Hayden has never met him in person, but that has not stopped her constantly thinking about him and flirting with him on their daily phone calls (I wish as much thought was put into the mystery). The mystery can be solved before the body is found (I am not kidding). I knew who the killer and where she would find it before Hayden stumbled over Jeremy Wright’s dead body. Some information is repeated several times. An example is information about Hayden’s parents (who live in Mayfair but are in France currently), the contents of her uncle’s will, and how Danny is so charming and attractive (but they are just friends). I give The Semi-Sweet Hereafter 3 out of 5 stars (it is okay). I believe a cozy mystery should have more mystery (call me foolish). I wanted less time devoted to Hayden’s rambling thoughts, and more to the plot and development of the mystery. I have tried to like this series, but it is not the type of cozy mystery I enjoy.
The Semi-Sweet Hereafter sounds good (I thought I did a good job). The reality is a different story. I found it satisfactory. I think the author put more effort into her dessert descriptions than the mystery. The Semi-Sweet Hereafter can be a stand-alone novel. The events of the first two books are rehashed in detail in this novel. As usual we are subjected to many thoughts about Hayden’s financial manager, Travis Turner. Hayden has never met him in person, but that has not stopped her constantly thinking about him and flirting with him on their daily phone calls (I wish as much thought was put into the mystery). The mystery can be solved before the body is found (I am not kidding). I knew who the killer and where she would find it before Hayden stumbled over Jeremy Wright’s dead body. Some information is repeated several times. An example is information about Hayden’s parents (who live in Mayfair but are in France currently), the contents of her uncle’s will, and how Danny is so charming and attractive (but they are just friends). I give The Semi-Sweet Hereafter 3 out of 5 stars (it is okay). I believe a cozy mystery should have more mystery (call me foolish). I wanted less time devoted to Hayden’s rambling thoughts, and more to the plot and development of the mystery. I have tried to like this series, but it is not the type of cozy mystery I enjoy.
March 21, 2017
➜Didn’t see the twists coming
➜Didn’t guess who the murderer was
➜Lots of humble-brag type talk of all the places she’s been and the things she’s done
Well research and knowledgable about chocolate and baking, though I know nothing so maybe it just sounds right lol
➜No mention of the issues with slave labor or unfair practices or Fair Trade that I recall
➜Haven’t read the first two books, don’t feel I missed anything. It gives information and explanation anytime something relevant from the past pops up
➜Wasn’t engaged or connected. It was just something to read & took me longer than normal.
➜Towards the end I was thinking “Hurry up and get somewhere instead of chasing your tail FFS!”
➜Do not read this when you’re hungry or cannot get food. Reading this at work was not pleasant.
➜Liked Hayden I guess.
➜Her two male sidekicks were cool. Liked how one is mysterious Charlie from Charlie’s Angels type. Really liked how her bodyguard brought some sense and perspective as someone who “comes from the other side of the tracks”
➜There’s many mentions of rough & tumble poverty stricken areas, even a tour or two, and the people who live there. Lots of talk of the luck getting out and how sad and unfair it is. Hayden’s solution is to write a check to a foundation she just heard of. There’s no context or exploration of it to make it real. It’s just another “exotic” location for her with the people as cardboard cutouts or pawns in the story.
➜She also proves that no matter how far you’ve come or how close you are with someone, some people will never let it go, and will have lingering doubts and suspicions.
➜In the end it’s alright. Easy to read, and the mystery held up under my apathetic gaze, but I can’t say I enjoyed it or recommend it.
➜Representation: Status Quo. Privileged as Fuck.
➜Rating: Meh. 1.5 stars? Not the worse I’ve read, but Whatever.
➜Didn’t guess who the murderer was
➜Lots of humble-brag type talk of all the places she’s been and the things she’s done
Well research and knowledgable about chocolate and baking, though I know nothing so maybe it just sounds right lol
➜No mention of the issues with slave labor or unfair practices or Fair Trade that I recall
➜Haven’t read the first two books, don’t feel I missed anything. It gives information and explanation anytime something relevant from the past pops up
➜Wasn’t engaged or connected. It was just something to read & took me longer than normal.
➜Towards the end I was thinking “Hurry up and get somewhere instead of chasing your tail FFS!”
➜Do not read this when you’re hungry or cannot get food. Reading this at work was not pleasant.
➜Liked Hayden I guess.
➜Her two male sidekicks were cool. Liked how one is mysterious Charlie from Charlie’s Angels type. Really liked how her bodyguard brought some sense and perspective as someone who “comes from the other side of the tracks”
➜There’s many mentions of rough & tumble poverty stricken areas, even a tour or two, and the people who live there. Lots of talk of the luck getting out and how sad and unfair it is. Hayden’s solution is to write a check to a foundation she just heard of. There’s no context or exploration of it to make it real. It’s just another “exotic” location for her with the people as cardboard cutouts or pawns in the story.
➜She also proves that no matter how far you’ve come or how close you are with someone, some people will never let it go, and will have lingering doubts and suspicions.
➜In the end it’s alright. Easy to read, and the mystery held up under my apathetic gaze, but I can’t say I enjoyed it or recommend it.
➜Representation: Status Quo. Privileged as Fuck.
➜Rating: Meh. 1.5 stars? Not the worse I’ve read, but Whatever.
November 3, 2018
Not sure if I’ll be reading the next book in the series. There were too many things in this one that annoyed me, which was surprising considering chocolate + London + mystery should have been a home run for me. Another reviewer said they felt talked-down to with all the explanations of British terminology. I agree, plus it felt very clunky and took away from the flow of the story. There were some other small things too, one of which was the personal trainer who had a rescued greyhound, but he also bet at the track. Um what? Logically, people who know full well about the cruel end of most racedogs and care enough to rescue one aren’t then going to the track and perpetuating the cycle. There are a million other things to gamble on if they have an addiction. Also, what’s up with the ‘what are you wearing thing’ with Travis? I know they like to flirt but girl, find another line. (Also, be careful about getting into it too much over the phone... I have learned from experience that phone and in-person can be very different lol).
So yeah, I didn’t end up really getting into the story until well after halfway through. I did enjoy things getting a little more exciting with Danny though, I’d be interested in the next book if they hook up. I also enjoyed the more technical parts about chocolate, I find the process of bean to bar (and everything else) fascinating. Though I do feel like Hayden is more of a dessert whisperer with a specialty in chocolate rather than just a chocolate whisperer. Baking is a science in and of itself. Using chocolate to create an incredible dish requires a whole lot more than being an expert just in chocolate. The mystery part was pretty good and the ending made sense, no complaints there. Just wish the rest of the book was a bit better.
So yeah, I didn’t end up really getting into the story until well after halfway through. I did enjoy things getting a little more exciting with Danny though, I’d be interested in the next book if they hook up. I also enjoyed the more technical parts about chocolate, I find the process of bean to bar (and everything else) fascinating. Though I do feel like Hayden is more of a dessert whisperer with a specialty in chocolate rather than just a chocolate whisperer. Baking is a science in and of itself. Using chocolate to create an incredible dish requires a whole lot more than being an expert just in chocolate. The mystery part was pretty good and the ending made sense, no complaints there. Just wish the rest of the book was a bit better.
June 26, 2017
Hayden Mandy Moore is a chocolate whisperer who travels the globe to help businesses with their chocolate issues. This was the third book in the series. I have to say that I enjoyed the first two books better than this one. There was a little too much detail and it took a long time to get to the reveal of the killer. I like Hayden's relationship with her best friend, Danny, who is also her security expert/bodyguard when she gets herself involved in murder investigations. I'd like to see a romantic relationship develop between these two. There is also Travis, Hayden's financial advisor, whom she likes to flirt with. I feel like their could be something a little fishy with him just because no one has ever actually seen him or knows much about him. Hoping the next book will be a little more like the first two.
September 24, 2018
I really like this mystery series featuring Hayden Mundy Moore and her chocolate-whispering career. Her two male 'sidekicks' are an integral part of the intrigue of these books, and both leave the reader wondering if she will eventually find romance with one of them. In the meantime, they keep her safe as she wanders into danger trying to solve the murders she comes across. Of course all of the chocolate 'talk' just makes you want to eat chocolate while you are reading - lol. This is a very good series and promises to deliver satisfaction as it continues.
October 9, 2017
Chocolate, how could I not love it?
But the story was bland, the characters were boring, and the two guys who Our Hero was dating are totally jealous of each other... and one guy was offended that she didn't ask him to help in a way that would be very out of character for him, why would she expect him to do that? At that point, I gave up.
But the story was bland, the characters were boring, and the two guys who Our Hero was dating are totally jealous of each other... and one guy was offended that she didn't ask him to help in a way that would be very out of character for him, why would she expect him to do that? At that point, I gave up.
September 27, 2016
This is a great book; this is the third book in the Chocolate Whisperer Mystery series written by Colette London. Hayden Mundy Moore is an expert on everything chocolate, she is in London to lend her expertise to high-street chocolaterie-pâtisserie Primrose. But when a famous culinary bad boy is found dead under suspicious circumstances (in her lodgings!), Hayden's eagerness not to be involved (this time) makes her the prime suspect in the ensuing investigation. This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night. If you are looking for a great book, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author. A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
January 18, 2017
Title: The Semi-Sweet Hereafter - Chocolate Whisperer Mystery Book 3
Author: Colette London
Published: 9-27-2016
Publisher: Kensington Books
Pages: 252
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers and Suspense
Sub Genre: Private Investigators; Cozy Mystery; Amateur Sleuth; Culinary
ISBN: 13: 9781617733499
ASIN: B01A4API20
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
Rating: 4.25
I received a copy of "The Semi-Sweet Hereafter" from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Description of "Semi-Sweet Hereafter" From the Publisher:
As an authority on all things chocolate, Hayden Mundy Moore is traveling across the pond to lend her expertise to the owner of a posh London chocolaterie-pâtisserie. From coconut truffles to chocolate flapjacks, Hayden's mouthwatering creations quickly impress her client. But her knowledge doesn't end there. The detective constable is taken by surprise when she identifies an exotic murder weapon: a stone metlapil, used to grind cacao beans—and apparently to bludgeon someone to death—in Hayden's own lodgings, no less…
The victim is a sexy celebrity chef who just happens to be the ex-husband of Hayden's client. Now, amid the terraced town houses and local pubs, a killer is lurking—and the police have an assortment of suspects: a culinary rival, an ambitious agent, a recently-sacked assistant, and unfortunately, Hayden herself. The talented chocolate whisperer will have to find out what sort of nutter clobbered the famous cook—or her career may come to a bitter end…
My Review of "Semi-Sweet Hereafter":
Hayden is a strong, intelligent main character with a cast of equally strong independent supporting characters. The theme of the books as always is murder of someone, Hayden is connected with some way. Hayden and her friends work together to prove the person involved, usually Hayden, innocent. Colette London uses her writing talents to create a noel of intrigue and suspense that draws readers into the story so that they feel they are part of the action as it takes place. Readers can enjoy "Semi-Sweet Hereafter" out of order, but be warned that there are a couple of references to events that happened in prior books that readers may have trouble understanding. I personally have read books 1 and 2. My rating is 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A4API20/...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-s...
GoodReads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Author: Colette London
Published: 9-27-2016
Publisher: Kensington Books
Pages: 252
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers and Suspense
Sub Genre: Private Investigators; Cozy Mystery; Amateur Sleuth; Culinary
ISBN: 13: 9781617733499
ASIN: B01A4API20
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
Rating: 4.25
I received a copy of "The Semi-Sweet Hereafter" from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Description of "Semi-Sweet Hereafter" From the Publisher:
As an authority on all things chocolate, Hayden Mundy Moore is traveling across the pond to lend her expertise to the owner of a posh London chocolaterie-pâtisserie. From coconut truffles to chocolate flapjacks, Hayden's mouthwatering creations quickly impress her client. But her knowledge doesn't end there. The detective constable is taken by surprise when she identifies an exotic murder weapon: a stone metlapil, used to grind cacao beans—and apparently to bludgeon someone to death—in Hayden's own lodgings, no less…
The victim is a sexy celebrity chef who just happens to be the ex-husband of Hayden's client. Now, amid the terraced town houses and local pubs, a killer is lurking—and the police have an assortment of suspects: a culinary rival, an ambitious agent, a recently-sacked assistant, and unfortunately, Hayden herself. The talented chocolate whisperer will have to find out what sort of nutter clobbered the famous cook—or her career may come to a bitter end…
My Review of "Semi-Sweet Hereafter":
Hayden is a strong, intelligent main character with a cast of equally strong independent supporting characters. The theme of the books as always is murder of someone, Hayden is connected with some way. Hayden and her friends work together to prove the person involved, usually Hayden, innocent. Colette London uses her writing talents to create a noel of intrigue and suspense that draws readers into the story so that they feel they are part of the action as it takes place. Readers can enjoy "Semi-Sweet Hereafter" out of order, but be warned that there are a couple of references to events that happened in prior books that readers may have trouble understanding. I personally have read books 1 and 2. My rating is 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A4API20/...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-s...
GoodReads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
February 8, 2017
Wealthy heiress Hayden Munday Moore is an expert on chocolate. She terms herself a "chocolate whisperer'' as she travels the world, helping improve chocolate in all its forms. In this 3rd Chocolate Whisperer Mystery, Hayden travels to London to help improve chocolate pastries at Primrose, a posh pastry shop. Phoebe Wright, owner of Primrose, is married to a famous television chef. Hayden assures her friends, and herself, that this time she will be doing nothing but tasting chocolate and training kitchen staff. She does not plan to get involved in anything that isn't chocolate-related. Just as she is settling into the Wrights' guesthouse, plans go awry (as usual). Hayden returns from a shopping trip to discover Chef Jeremy Wright dead on the floor of the guesthouse. He has been bludgeoned to death with a stone metlapil. Suddenly Hayden is a murder suspect, along with a disgruntled former assistant, a rival chef and an overzealous agent. So much for her sticking to chocolate only while in London! Once again, Hayden is on the trail of a killer. She has to discover the murderer's identity to clear her own name.
This was a fun mystery to read! All the different facts and information about cacao beans, chocolate and cooking tips for baking with chocolate were very interesting! There are some yummy chocolate recipes at the end of the book as well! The mystery portion of the plot was well-written with multiple suspects, a few red herrings and some great twists and turns before the ending. I had to suspend reality a little bit to buy into Hayden's back-story, but that wasn't too hard to do. Although I seriously doubt there is a wealthy heiress in the world who travels constantly as a chocolate advisor, it made for a fun cozy mystery! Hayden is a strong, intelligent main character. It was nice to read a cozy that wasn't centered around a bookshop, library or cupcakes.
At times the author explained some British terms as an aside, which I thought was unnecessary. Most American readers know that "sacked'' means to be fired from a job or that a "desktop diary'' is a planner.
All in all, this is an enjoyable, light mystery with a great chocolate theme! Semi-Sweet Hereafter releases September 27th! Pick up a copy for a sweet, chocolately escape! :)
Colette London is a pseudonym used by best-selling romance author Lisa Plumley. Find out more about the Chocolate Whisperer Mystery series at www.colettelondon.com.
This was a fun mystery to read! All the different facts and information about cacao beans, chocolate and cooking tips for baking with chocolate were very interesting! There are some yummy chocolate recipes at the end of the book as well! The mystery portion of the plot was well-written with multiple suspects, a few red herrings and some great twists and turns before the ending. I had to suspend reality a little bit to buy into Hayden's back-story, but that wasn't too hard to do. Although I seriously doubt there is a wealthy heiress in the world who travels constantly as a chocolate advisor, it made for a fun cozy mystery! Hayden is a strong, intelligent main character. It was nice to read a cozy that wasn't centered around a bookshop, library or cupcakes.
At times the author explained some British terms as an aside, which I thought was unnecessary. Most American readers know that "sacked'' means to be fired from a job or that a "desktop diary'' is a planner.
All in all, this is an enjoyable, light mystery with a great chocolate theme! Semi-Sweet Hereafter releases September 27th! Pick up a copy for a sweet, chocolately escape! :)
Colette London is a pseudonym used by best-selling romance author Lisa Plumley. Find out more about the Chocolate Whisperer Mystery series at www.colettelondon.com.
September 23, 2016
This story has 1 thing I did enjoy-- the knowledge imparted by the author on many things chocolate. I didn't really like the heroine but did like Danny whom was treated like a companion dog. That character could have played a larger part in the story more in keeping with the back story we are given. So many characters so little connection
September 10, 2016
Learning about chocolate was interesting. Learning English as spoken in England was fun. Joining a series in its 3rd installment didn't leave me feeling lost and has left me intrigued to read the previous two cozy mysteries.
Hayden Mundy Moore is a 30 yr old whose inheritance not only allows her to travel as a chocolate whisperer, but demands she see the world in order to keep the money.
Life would be lonely without knowing her long-time friend and security expert, Danny Jamieson, will be there whenever she needs him. A phone call connects her to Travis Turner, her financial guru and the man who can access information when Hayden needs it. He also directs her to her chocolatier clients.
This client, Primrose, is a shop owned by Phoebe Wright whose husband Jeremy's talent as a popular celebrity chef is the body Hayden finds when she returns to their guest cottage her assignment included with the job offer. Being a peer married to someone from the council estates (social housing) is a status for both Phoebe and Jeremy. Working with Phoebe's class attitudes stretches Hayden's patience.
Trying to solve Jeremy's murder & get herself off the suspect list brings Hayden into contact with some scary people. Danny keeping her under surveillance saves her life.
Chocolate recipes are included.
I received a copy of this book from Kensington through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Hayden Mundy Moore is a 30 yr old whose inheritance not only allows her to travel as a chocolate whisperer, but demands she see the world in order to keep the money.
Life would be lonely without knowing her long-time friend and security expert, Danny Jamieson, will be there whenever she needs him. A phone call connects her to Travis Turner, her financial guru and the man who can access information when Hayden needs it. He also directs her to her chocolatier clients.
This client, Primrose, is a shop owned by Phoebe Wright whose husband Jeremy's talent as a popular celebrity chef is the body Hayden finds when she returns to their guest cottage her assignment included with the job offer. Being a peer married to someone from the council estates (social housing) is a status for both Phoebe and Jeremy. Working with Phoebe's class attitudes stretches Hayden's patience.
Trying to solve Jeremy's murder & get herself off the suspect list brings Hayden into contact with some scary people. Danny keeping her under surveillance saves her life.
Chocolate recipes are included.
I received a copy of this book from Kensington through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
August 26, 2016
See my full review on my blog Mystereity Reviews
"Chocolate Whisperer" Hayden Mundy Moore travels the world helping companies improve the quality of their chocolates. In The Semi-Sweet Hereafter, Hayden is in London assisting Phoebe, the wife of celebrity chef Jeremy Wright. Phoebe owns a failing chocolate pâtisserie and needs Hayden's help to turn it around. When Jeremy turns up bludgeoned to death, Hayden falls under suspicion. To clear her name, she has to hunt down the real killer.
The premise of the book, a globe trotting chocolate expert was really a fun change of pace from the usual cozy. Loaded with tips and tricks for baking with chocolate, as well as yummy recipes, this chocoholic bookworm was hooked from the first page. Hayden is a likable main character, and I could relate to a lot of her quirks (I, too, like going to grocery stores when I'm in a new place!) The absorbing plot had clues that were so well hidden (in plain sight, no less!) that I didn't realize they were clues until the end. I'm not really sure why Hayden believed she was a suspect well into the book. Even if the police seriously suspected her, she would've had her alibi verified and cleared her within a day. The other suspects were a lot more...well...suspicious. A disgruntled former assistant, an angry young chef, an angry corporate sponsor and a ruthless agent all had a lot more motive and opportunity than Hayden had.
Overall, a very enjoyable read with an great premise and an equally good plot, despite a few distractions. It can be read as a standalone with minimal confusion but reading the series in order would probably enhance this book, mostly for the characters' backstories.
Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the advanced copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.
"Chocolate Whisperer" Hayden Mundy Moore travels the world helping companies improve the quality of their chocolates. In The Semi-Sweet Hereafter, Hayden is in London assisting Phoebe, the wife of celebrity chef Jeremy Wright. Phoebe owns a failing chocolate pâtisserie and needs Hayden's help to turn it around. When Jeremy turns up bludgeoned to death, Hayden falls under suspicion. To clear her name, she has to hunt down the real killer.
The premise of the book, a globe trotting chocolate expert was really a fun change of pace from the usual cozy. Loaded with tips and tricks for baking with chocolate, as well as yummy recipes, this chocoholic bookworm was hooked from the first page. Hayden is a likable main character, and I could relate to a lot of her quirks (I, too, like going to grocery stores when I'm in a new place!) The absorbing plot had clues that were so well hidden (in plain sight, no less!) that I didn't realize they were clues until the end. I'm not really sure why Hayden believed she was a suspect well into the book. Even if the police seriously suspected her, she would've had her alibi verified and cleared her within a day. The other suspects were a lot more...well...suspicious. A disgruntled former assistant, an angry young chef, an angry corporate sponsor and a ruthless agent all had a lot more motive and opportunity than Hayden had.
Overall, a very enjoyable read with an great premise and an equally good plot, despite a few distractions. It can be read as a standalone with minimal confusion but reading the series in order would probably enhance this book, mostly for the characters' backstories.
Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the advanced copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 13, 2016
I received a free ebook of this title, The Semi-Sweet Hereafter by Colette London, from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.
This caught my eye because of the chocolate and the setting. I think my enjoyment of this was negatively impacted because it was the third in a series and I have not read the first two. With that in mind, I want to be as fair as possible.
The protagonist Hayden Munday Moore is wealthy heiress and chocolate expert. The terms of her Uncle’s will, the source of her wealth, are that she travels extensively, not settling down or getting too comfortable anywhere. She is a chocolate “fixer” of sorts, visiting producers, restaurants, tv sets and pastry shops solving chocolate problems. In this book, she finds herself in London, working on a chocolate fix with a small pastry shop owner/celebrity whose husband ends up murdered. Hayden finds herself smack in the middle of the investigation, relying primarily on her bodyguard and financial advisor as her sidekicks in the investigation. There are at least three viable suspects and theories of the crime to follow along with as Hayden investigates.
There is an attempt to develop a sense of place here, with lots of explanation of British terms and customs. There is also discussion of chocolate and some of the issues that Hayden solves and recipes are included.
A cozy for chocolate lovers and for those interested in an overseas travel theme.
This caught my eye because of the chocolate and the setting. I think my enjoyment of this was negatively impacted because it was the third in a series and I have not read the first two. With that in mind, I want to be as fair as possible.
The protagonist Hayden Munday Moore is wealthy heiress and chocolate expert. The terms of her Uncle’s will, the source of her wealth, are that she travels extensively, not settling down or getting too comfortable anywhere. She is a chocolate “fixer” of sorts, visiting producers, restaurants, tv sets and pastry shops solving chocolate problems. In this book, she finds herself in London, working on a chocolate fix with a small pastry shop owner/celebrity whose husband ends up murdered. Hayden finds herself smack in the middle of the investigation, relying primarily on her bodyguard and financial advisor as her sidekicks in the investigation. There are at least three viable suspects and theories of the crime to follow along with as Hayden investigates.
There is an attempt to develop a sense of place here, with lots of explanation of British terms and customs. There is also discussion of chocolate and some of the issues that Hayden solves and recipes are included.
A cozy for chocolate lovers and for those interested in an overseas travel theme.
September 13, 2016
The Semi-Sweet Hereafter by Colette London
Colette London has penned a great cozy mystery set in England about an American woman who travel the world helping bakeries improve their menu items, especially those containing chocolate. If you have a sweet tooth and are trying to cut out desserts, you may want to read at your own risk, because these sweets sound amazing (and there are recipes in the back!!!!!).
The plot of this story is well crafted and there are a plethora of suspects (my one complaint about the book, too many people). The main character is fun loving and daring, she has earned the loyalty and respect of her bodyguard/good friend and her financial wizard. These two men have her back and are able to reel her in when the takes too many chances (something that just seems to come naturally).
Another great thing about this premise is that the main character travels to great locations so if she stumbles on a dead body it is not the tenth dead body in small-town America, so unrealistic.
If you like cozy mysteries, I recommend this author. I was given this copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review. I honestly liked it and plan to go read the others in the series to discover the backstory.
Colette London has penned a great cozy mystery set in England about an American woman who travel the world helping bakeries improve their menu items, especially those containing chocolate. If you have a sweet tooth and are trying to cut out desserts, you may want to read at your own risk, because these sweets sound amazing (and there are recipes in the back!!!!!).
The plot of this story is well crafted and there are a plethora of suspects (my one complaint about the book, too many people). The main character is fun loving and daring, she has earned the loyalty and respect of her bodyguard/good friend and her financial wizard. These two men have her back and are able to reel her in when the takes too many chances (something that just seems to come naturally).
Another great thing about this premise is that the main character travels to great locations so if she stumbles on a dead body it is not the tenth dead body in small-town America, so unrealistic.
If you like cozy mysteries, I recommend this author. I was given this copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review. I honestly liked it and plan to go read the others in the series to discover the backstory.
January 12, 2017
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Semi-Sweet Hereafter is third in a series about self-proclaimed chocolate whisperer and never ending globe-trotter Hayden Mundy Moore. I have not read the first two, so will have to judge this on its own merits. I really like the idea of a chocolate based mystery, and wanted to like Hayden, but found her behavior annoying and childish most of the time. I did however like her security guard/friend Danny. Although his description and some of his actions made him out to be a bit of a superhero, he still appeared more real than Hayden. Most of the other characters were well written and easy to picture. The murder was fairly simplistic, while some of the chocolate references were equally complex. The story dragged a bit for my taste, and I found myself struggling to stay interested at times. Someone who enjoys chocolate and doesn't mind the slower pace would probably love this book. It just wasn't one of my favorites. The one thing I would ask the author to change, would be the frequent translations of British terms. I'm not an Anglophile by any means, but I think most people could figure out on their own what was being said or referenced.
The Semi-Sweet Hereafter is third in a series about self-proclaimed chocolate whisperer and never ending globe-trotter Hayden Mundy Moore. I have not read the first two, so will have to judge this on its own merits. I really like the idea of a chocolate based mystery, and wanted to like Hayden, but found her behavior annoying and childish most of the time. I did however like her security guard/friend Danny. Although his description and some of his actions made him out to be a bit of a superhero, he still appeared more real than Hayden. Most of the other characters were well written and easy to picture. The murder was fairly simplistic, while some of the chocolate references were equally complex. The story dragged a bit for my taste, and I found myself struggling to stay interested at times. Someone who enjoys chocolate and doesn't mind the slower pace would probably love this book. It just wasn't one of my favorites. The one thing I would ask the author to change, would be the frequent translations of British terms. I'm not an Anglophile by any means, but I think most people could figure out on their own what was being said or referenced.
October 23, 2016
The Semi-Sweet Hereafter is the 3rd book in A Chocolate Whisperer series. Hayden Mundy Moore, the chocolate whisperer, travels to London to work with Phoebe Wright at her chocolaterie business, Primrose. Hayden is staying in Phoebe’s guesthouse, when Hayden returns to the guesthouse one evening she finds Phoebe's husband dead. Phoebe is soon found to be a suspect in the murder, so she sets out to solve the murder.
I loved the interaction between Hayden and her bodyguard/ long time friend Danny as well as her "keeper" Travis. Travis is Hayden financial planner, who she has never met in person but fantasizes about his dark rich voice. Danny and Travis don't like each other, so this adds to the entertainment of the book.
This book has well developed characters and plot which kept me guessing until the end, and I can't wait for Hayden's next adventure. Not only do you get to travel to different destinations without leaving your home, you can also drool over the food descriptions. I recommend this cozy mystery book and the whole series.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I loved the interaction between Hayden and her bodyguard/ long time friend Danny as well as her "keeper" Travis. Travis is Hayden financial planner, who she has never met in person but fantasizes about his dark rich voice. Danny and Travis don't like each other, so this adds to the entertainment of the book.
This book has well developed characters and plot which kept me guessing until the end, and I can't wait for Hayden's next adventure. Not only do you get to travel to different destinations without leaving your home, you can also drool over the food descriptions. I recommend this cozy mystery book and the whole series.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 12, 2016
Hayden Mundy Moore is a person who helps out posh candy story owners as an expert in anything that is sweet and chocolate. She is currently in London working for a swanky chocolaterie-pâtisserie, Primrose. The owner, Phoebe, is a real snob that Hayden has to deal with. Hayden is staying on the property of the owner in a smaller residence that doubles as the working kitchen for the owner's husband, Jeremy, a famous chef. Hayden leaves work and walks into the house that she is staying in and finds a dead body. It turns out to be the murder scene of Chef Jeremy. The police are treating Hayden as a possible suspect and she realizes that she will have to find the killer before he or she gets away and she possibly won't. I love cozy mysteries and I love any British mystery. I really enjoyed this book and found it to be entertaining. I really liked the character of Hayden and found her to be easy to relate to. I definitely recommend this book to all cozy and mystery lovers.
The Semi-Sweet Hereafter by Colette London is now available and published by Kensington Publishing. An egalley of this book was made available by the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
The Semi-Sweet Hereafter by Colette London is now available and published by Kensington Publishing. An egalley of this book was made available by the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
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