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A Blossom Valley Mystery #5
Murder Most Wholesome
Business has never been better at the O'Connell Organic Farm and Spa in Blossom Valley, California. But a murder has two of its top employees ploughing for clues at a commune where tree-huggers are wary of the modern world--and a killer may be disturbing their peace… When Dana Lewis and Zennia Patrakio go to the Blossom Valley farmer's market, they expect to find luscious fruits and vegetables to delight the spa's guests. They are not expecting to see Birch Keller, Zennia's one true love. But Zennia's excitement over "the one who got away" is short-lived when Birch is found dead in her garden. Kitchen-challenged Dana takes over grief-stricken Zennia's cooking duties at the spa--but the biggest challenge will be searching for answers at the commune where Birch had been living. The residents are nuttier than granola, and as Dana tills up the truth, she'll discover a killer with a wholly unwholesome appetite for revenge… Praise for The Blossom Valley Mysteries!"Cleverly plotted…Plenty of suspects and potential motives keep readers guessing until the very end!" --RT Book Reviews on Green Living Can Be Deadly"A fun, light read." --Library Journal on Going Organic Can Kill You
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2016
14 people are currently reading
195 people want to read
About the author
Staci McLaughlin
7 books86 followersStaci McLaughlin was a technical writer in Silicon Valley for eight years before becoming a freelance writer. She is currently a member of Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime. She is also a member of the LadyKillers, a group of thirteen writers who alternate posting daily blogs at www.theladykillers.typepad.com, as well as blogging on her own web site.
Her first book, Going Organic Can Kill You, was released July, 2012, by Kensington. The second book in the series, All Natural Murder, was released February 5, 2013.
Her first book, Going Organic Can Kill You, was released July, 2012, by Kensington. The second book in the series, All Natural Murder, was released February 5, 2013.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
February 22, 2016
A fresh mystery with a healthy helping of intrigue!
I’ve been wanting to start this series for quite some time, but another book/series always seemed to crop up. I am so happy the chance arrived for me to read MURDER MOST WHOLESOME. Now I know what I’ve been missing, and I don’t want to miss anymore!
I thought I’d be lost starting with this fifth book in the Blossom Valley Mysteries, but I wasn’t at all. I was immediately drawn in by author Staci McLaughlin’s writing and her wonderful characters. I made an instant connection with series lead, Dana Lewis who works marketing at the O’Connell Organic Farm & Spa. She hates vegetables almost as much as I do!
MURDER MOST WHOLESOME truly was a wonderful read. Author McLaughlin treated this story like a farmer does her crops, nourishing each word, every sentence, until finally cultivating a finished product that held my attention from the beginning until the delicious conclusion.
While I patiently await (or maybe not so) the next book in this new to me series, I’ll be harvesting the first four installments, and enjoying the fruits of Ms. McLaughlin’s labor. I suggest you pick one for yourself too.
Make sure to check out the back of the book for tips and recipes from the O’Connell Organic Farm & Spa!
I’ve been wanting to start this series for quite some time, but another book/series always seemed to crop up. I am so happy the chance arrived for me to read MURDER MOST WHOLESOME. Now I know what I’ve been missing, and I don’t want to miss anymore!
I thought I’d be lost starting with this fifth book in the Blossom Valley Mysteries, but I wasn’t at all. I was immediately drawn in by author Staci McLaughlin’s writing and her wonderful characters. I made an instant connection with series lead, Dana Lewis who works marketing at the O’Connell Organic Farm & Spa. She hates vegetables almost as much as I do!
MURDER MOST WHOLESOME truly was a wonderful read. Author McLaughlin treated this story like a farmer does her crops, nourishing each word, every sentence, until finally cultivating a finished product that held my attention from the beginning until the delicious conclusion.
While I patiently await (or maybe not so) the next book in this new to me series, I’ll be harvesting the first four installments, and enjoying the fruits of Ms. McLaughlin’s labor. I suggest you pick one for yourself too.
Make sure to check out the back of the book for tips and recipes from the O’Connell Organic Farm & Spa!
February 23, 2016
This is the fifth book in the series and the first one I have read. Zennia is delighted to meet an ex-lover, Birch Kellar at the organic food store. The next morning Birch is found dead in Zennia's garden. Grief has consumed Zennia completely and she is unable to handle the cooking at the farm. Dana takes over the cooking in addition to her regular role. Dana has no known cooking abilities so she is learning on the job. Trying to get Zennia back to cook Dana takes Zennia to the. commune where Birch had been living. There are problems there and Dana needs to find an answer before she becomes a victim. I will look for other books in the series to learn about the farm. I was able to understand the book as a stand alone.
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 are my own.
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 are my own.
March 1, 2016
Dana works at an organic farm and spa, though her tastes are normally for anything *but* organic vegetables, but when her friend's first love shows up at the local commune, and is then found dead in Zennia's garden, she takes over kitchen duties (albeit with much trepidation) hoping to ensure guests won't complain, leave or starve.
I found the whole presentation very unsubtle, even for a cozy mystery, and the ending just too easy. Even the recipes at the end weren't particularly new. I find it difficult to engage with stories where I'm spoon-fed the theories, but as a semi-brainless read it was okay.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I found the whole presentation very unsubtle, even for a cozy mystery, and the ending just too easy. Even the recipes at the end weren't particularly new. I find it difficult to engage with stories where I'm spoon-fed the theories, but as a semi-brainless read it was okay.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2016
Blossom Valley Mystery #5
Things are going smoothly in Blossom Valley, it's June and the early summer is a perfect time for guests to be arriving at O'Connell Organic Farm & Spa.
Dana Lewis is in charge of marketing for the farm and her free spirited co-worker, Zennia, is happy to teach her a few things about living a healthy lifestyle.
Zennia is stunned beyond belief when she runs into Birch, her first true love. When they parted ways several years earlier, Zennia had no idea she would ever see him again. While everyone in their small town is talking about how happy Birch is, reuniting with Zennia again after all this time, Zennia herself isn't sure things will end happily ever after.
As Dana learns about Birch she is also surprised to learn that there is a commune in Blossom Valley, Evergreen. Birch and Zennia once lived at Evergreen and Birch has returned, ready to settle back into a peaceful lifestyle. A peaceful lifestyle isn't in the stars for Birch, and Zennia is the unlucky person to discover his body, in her own backyard.
The death sends Zennia into a downward spiral and returning to her job at the farm as an organic chef isn't a top priority.
When Gordon, the manager of O'Connell Organic Farm & Spa asks Dana to fill in as chef, her lack of culinary skills puts her in an awkward position. Dana has no problem eating processed foods, including pop-tarts, packaged cupcakes and frozen pizza, however, the guests at the farm are expecting healthy meals. As Dana tries to improve her culinary skills with the help of her boyfriend Jason, it doesn't take her long to realize Zennia needs to return to work and fast.
As Dana sets out to find out what secrets from Birch's past might have contributed to his death, she also discovers things at the commune aren't as happy and peaceful as they should be. When Dana asks one to many questions, she puts herself in harm's way and comes face to face with the murderer at the Blossom Valley Carnival.
I was really impressed with this book and I enjoyed reading about the way of life at Evergreen.
Dana is a very likable character who will keep the reader laughing with her culinary ideas.
Ms. McLaughlin has a wonderful style of writing that made it impossible to put this book down.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Things are going smoothly in Blossom Valley, it's June and the early summer is a perfect time for guests to be arriving at O'Connell Organic Farm & Spa.
Dana Lewis is in charge of marketing for the farm and her free spirited co-worker, Zennia, is happy to teach her a few things about living a healthy lifestyle.
Zennia is stunned beyond belief when she runs into Birch, her first true love. When they parted ways several years earlier, Zennia had no idea she would ever see him again. While everyone in their small town is talking about how happy Birch is, reuniting with Zennia again after all this time, Zennia herself isn't sure things will end happily ever after.
As Dana learns about Birch she is also surprised to learn that there is a commune in Blossom Valley, Evergreen. Birch and Zennia once lived at Evergreen and Birch has returned, ready to settle back into a peaceful lifestyle. A peaceful lifestyle isn't in the stars for Birch, and Zennia is the unlucky person to discover his body, in her own backyard.
The death sends Zennia into a downward spiral and returning to her job at the farm as an organic chef isn't a top priority.
When Gordon, the manager of O'Connell Organic Farm & Spa asks Dana to fill in as chef, her lack of culinary skills puts her in an awkward position. Dana has no problem eating processed foods, including pop-tarts, packaged cupcakes and frozen pizza, however, the guests at the farm are expecting healthy meals. As Dana tries to improve her culinary skills with the help of her boyfriend Jason, it doesn't take her long to realize Zennia needs to return to work and fast.
As Dana sets out to find out what secrets from Birch's past might have contributed to his death, she also discovers things at the commune aren't as happy and peaceful as they should be. When Dana asks one to many questions, she puts herself in harm's way and comes face to face with the murderer at the Blossom Valley Carnival.
I was really impressed with this book and I enjoyed reading about the way of life at Evergreen.
Dana is a very likable character who will keep the reader laughing with her culinary ideas.
Ms. McLaughlin has a wonderful style of writing that made it impossible to put this book down.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my fair and honest review.
April 1, 2022
#5 in the Blossom Valley series. A solid 3 stars, although I have to say that the ending brought in a left field component and while it was plausible, it seemed like a cheat.
In this one, at the Farmer's Market while purchasing veg for the spa, Zinnia sees Birch, her one true love (from 20 odd years ago at the commune). They briefly reconnect, but the next day, he is found dead by Zinnia in her garden. Who killed him? Someone from the commune? Some random thing? Zinnia is so rattled she cannot go back to her job as chef at the spa. Uh oh, that leaves Dana in charge of the kitchen. And that means trouble.
While it was an interesting mystery, would a healthy farm spa really not have a back-up in the event that the chef was out? Would they really put someone who cannot cook in charge of breakfast and lunch? While it made for a chuckle, it is another one of those 'really' moments that makes me think the author had no other way to pull the story together.
The storyline around the commune was interesting. I did feel like the issue around Ryan was a bit unfinished. Still, overall 3 stars.
In this one, at the Farmer's Market while purchasing veg for the spa, Zinnia sees Birch, her one true love (from 20 odd years ago at the commune). They briefly reconnect, but the next day, he is found dead by Zinnia in her garden. Who killed him? Someone from the commune? Some random thing? Zinnia is so rattled she cannot go back to her job as chef at the spa. Uh oh, that leaves Dana in charge of the kitchen. And that means trouble.
While it was an interesting mystery, would a healthy farm spa really not have a back-up in the event that the chef was out? Would they really put someone who cannot cook in charge of breakfast and lunch? While it made for a chuckle, it is another one of those 'really' moments that makes me think the author had no other way to pull the story together.
The storyline around the commune was interesting. I did feel like the issue around Ryan was a bit unfinished. Still, overall 3 stars.
October 8, 2017
Commune life can be dangerous in Blossom Valley
A fun little cozy mystery. The main characters are interesting and likable. I liked them enough to read the next book in the series.
A fun little cozy mystery. The main characters are interesting and likable. I liked them enough to read the next book in the series.
March 21, 2017
Another solid installment in the series.
October 3, 2021
Loved it
April 7, 2016
Title: Murder Most Wholesome - Blossom Valley Mystery 5
Author: Staci McLaughlin
Published: 2-23-2016
Publisher: Kensington Books
Pages: 320
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
Sub Genre: Amateur Sleuths; Women's Fiction; Cozy Mystery; Women Sleuths;
ISBN: 9780758294906
ASIN: B00Y6RB2D2
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
My Rating: 5 Stars
.
Dana Lewis' idea of a balanced meal is a microwavable dinner with equal wait distributed over the serving container, preferably no vegetables included. How she was charged with the marketing media responsibilities for O'Conner Organic Farm & Spa. She wears many hats there, but decides to accompany Zennia, the Farm's Chef, on her next trip to the Flea Market so that she can learn more about the produce and cooking with fresh produce. While working Dana begins to notice a man watching Zennia closely. When Zennia catches sight of him she is surprised to see her old boyfriend, Birch. When they broke up Birch remained at Evergreen Commune and Zennia moved away. Dana and Birch make plans to get together to catch up on one another's lives and exchange phone numbers. Dana is shocked the next morning to find Birch dead in her garden.
Zennia cannot figure out how he ended up at her home when she hadn't given him her address. She talks Dana into going with her to Evergreen to see what she could find out about her old friend if they might know why someone would kill him. The idyllic commune is not as she remembers. There is a very obvious divide between the older members who wanted to keep things as they had always been and the newer ones who want to introduce computers and internet marketing of their produce and wares. When Zennia, upset over Birch's murder takes some time off Dana winds up in charge of cooking for the Bed and Breakfast. With Jason on speed dial for help and a wide variety of cookbooks Dana tackles the challenge with confidence. Dana in hopes of having Zennia return quickly to her chef's position, Dana decides to find the killer or least she hopes so.
This is truly light cozy style mystery. While well written and with some very well defined characters. I enjoyed the story very much and look forward to reading more of the Blossom Valley series. I have not read any of the four other books yet, but hope to do so soon. I loved Dana, who would find cooking an easy bake oven cake difficult. She reminds me of one of my sisters who lived by the motto if it doesn't come from a box, it isn't worth eating. There are a few twist and turns and a red herring or two to keep reader's interested in the story. My rating is 4 out of 4 stars.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/murde...
GoodReads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Author: Staci McLaughlin
Published: 2-23-2016
Publisher: Kensington Books
Pages: 320
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
Sub Genre: Amateur Sleuths; Women's Fiction; Cozy Mystery; Women Sleuths;
ISBN: 9780758294906
ASIN: B00Y6RB2D2
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
My Rating: 5 Stars
.
Dana Lewis' idea of a balanced meal is a microwavable dinner with equal wait distributed over the serving container, preferably no vegetables included. How she was charged with the marketing media responsibilities for O'Conner Organic Farm & Spa. She wears many hats there, but decides to accompany Zennia, the Farm's Chef, on her next trip to the Flea Market so that she can learn more about the produce and cooking with fresh produce. While working Dana begins to notice a man watching Zennia closely. When Zennia catches sight of him she is surprised to see her old boyfriend, Birch. When they broke up Birch remained at Evergreen Commune and Zennia moved away. Dana and Birch make plans to get together to catch up on one another's lives and exchange phone numbers. Dana is shocked the next morning to find Birch dead in her garden.
Zennia cannot figure out how he ended up at her home when she hadn't given him her address. She talks Dana into going with her to Evergreen to see what she could find out about her old friend if they might know why someone would kill him. The idyllic commune is not as she remembers. There is a very obvious divide between the older members who wanted to keep things as they had always been and the newer ones who want to introduce computers and internet marketing of their produce and wares. When Zennia, upset over Birch's murder takes some time off Dana winds up in charge of cooking for the Bed and Breakfast. With Jason on speed dial for help and a wide variety of cookbooks Dana tackles the challenge with confidence. Dana in hopes of having Zennia return quickly to her chef's position, Dana decides to find the killer or least she hopes so.
This is truly light cozy style mystery. While well written and with some very well defined characters. I enjoyed the story very much and look forward to reading more of the Blossom Valley series. I have not read any of the four other books yet, but hope to do so soon. I loved Dana, who would find cooking an easy bake oven cake difficult. She reminds me of one of my sisters who lived by the motto if it doesn't come from a box, it isn't worth eating. There are a few twist and turns and a red herring or two to keep reader's interested in the story. My rating is 4 out of 4 stars.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/murde...
GoodReads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
June 14, 2016
Murder Most Wholesome is the 5th in the Blossom Valley cozy mystery series centered around Dana Lewis. Dana's primary job is marketing for the O'Connell Organic Farm & Spa in Blossom Valley, California, but she often finds herself working as a jack of all trades around the establishment.
Dana, who exists on processed and microwavewable foods decides to accompany co-worker and Farm Chef, Zennia to the Farmer's Market in an effort to expand her knowledge regarding the healthy living lifestyle and vegetables the Zennia promotes. Dana notices a man watching Zennia's every move and just when she is about to confront the stranger, Zennia notices him too. He turns out to be Zennia's first true love, Birch.
Birch and Zennia had met over twenty five years ago and fallen madly in love. Together they travelled to Evergreen, the commune hidden in the hills of Blossom Valley. After spending several years at Evergreen, the couple split up and went their separate ways not keeping in touch. Eager to reconnect the couple exchanges phone numbers and makes plans to get together soon, not knowing that Zennia would discover Birch dead in her flower garden the next morning.
Zennia has no idea why Birch was in her yard or how he even knew her address. In an effort to learn more about the recent life of the man and perhaps discover who would have wanted him dead she enlists Dana to go with her to Evergreen.
Evergreen is not the ideal bucolic community that Dana expected. A divide between the older original members of the commune and the newer members is becoming apparent. The older members including Frank, the commune bookkeeper; Millie and Pearl are fighting hard against the introduction to new technology such as online sales being presented by newcomer Ryan.
Dana finds herself thrust into the position of cooking for the O'Connell Bed and Breakfast guests when Zennia decides to take a leave of absence. Fortunately, she has her boyfriend Jason to give her a few instructions and she can rely on the cookbooks of her health conscious mother. Dana soon discovers that cooking and the healthy foods she is forced to prepare are really not that bad.
A fun loving cast of characters includes returning Spa owner and employees Estelle, Gordon and Gretchen, plus Dana's sister Ashlee is back with her revolving door of boyfriends. A swift moving plot with plenty of suspects. I would love to live at the O'Connell if only to play with Wilbur the pet pig everyday.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
Dana, who exists on processed and microwavewable foods decides to accompany co-worker and Farm Chef, Zennia to the Farmer's Market in an effort to expand her knowledge regarding the healthy living lifestyle and vegetables the Zennia promotes. Dana notices a man watching Zennia's every move and just when she is about to confront the stranger, Zennia notices him too. He turns out to be Zennia's first true love, Birch.
Birch and Zennia had met over twenty five years ago and fallen madly in love. Together they travelled to Evergreen, the commune hidden in the hills of Blossom Valley. After spending several years at Evergreen, the couple split up and went their separate ways not keeping in touch. Eager to reconnect the couple exchanges phone numbers and makes plans to get together soon, not knowing that Zennia would discover Birch dead in her flower garden the next morning.
Zennia has no idea why Birch was in her yard or how he even knew her address. In an effort to learn more about the recent life of the man and perhaps discover who would have wanted him dead she enlists Dana to go with her to Evergreen.
Evergreen is not the ideal bucolic community that Dana expected. A divide between the older original members of the commune and the newer members is becoming apparent. The older members including Frank, the commune bookkeeper; Millie and Pearl are fighting hard against the introduction to new technology such as online sales being presented by newcomer Ryan.
Dana finds herself thrust into the position of cooking for the O'Connell Bed and Breakfast guests when Zennia decides to take a leave of absence. Fortunately, she has her boyfriend Jason to give her a few instructions and she can rely on the cookbooks of her health conscious mother. Dana soon discovers that cooking and the healthy foods she is forced to prepare are really not that bad.
A fun loving cast of characters includes returning Spa owner and employees Estelle, Gordon and Gretchen, plus Dana's sister Ashlee is back with her revolving door of boyfriends. A swift moving plot with plenty of suspects. I would love to live at the O'Connell if only to play with Wilbur the pet pig everyday.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
January 26, 2016
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
This is the first book that I have read by Staci McLaughlin and I really enjoyed this cozy mystery. Murder Most Wholesome is the 5th installment of A Blossom Valley Mystery Series and I had no problem reading this before any of the other books in the series.
The book centers around our main character, Dana, who works in marketing for the O'Connell Organic Farm and Spa in Blossom Valley. Dana accompanies her friend and cook for the Farm and Spa, Zinnia, to the local farmers market to pick up supplies and they run into Zinnia's old flame, Birch. He's back living on the commune that he and Zinnia lived in all those years ago. (wait, there's a commune? It seems like everyone knew about this commune in the area except Dana) Birch and Zinnia haven't seen each other for 20+ years, and when he turns up murdered in her yard the next day, she is heartbroken and understandably unable to go to work. Dana, who lives off of frozen meals, takeout, and lots of other unhealthy snacks, has to step in and prepare the healthy and organic meals. Easy right? Oh, along with doing her regular marketing duties and solving the 'whodunnit'
There are some fun, laugh out loud moments in this book and it kept me turning the pages. I like that the main character isn't involved with someone on the local police as many of the plots of other cozies have. In fact, most of the book centers around Dana and her friends investigating, the police are just in the background. I didn't guess the identity of the murderer right away, there were lots of clues pointing to several suspects. There are lots of fun and quirky characters and I am looking forward to going back to read the others books in this series.
This is the first book that I have read by Staci McLaughlin and I really enjoyed this cozy mystery. Murder Most Wholesome is the 5th installment of A Blossom Valley Mystery Series and I had no problem reading this before any of the other books in the series.
The book centers around our main character, Dana, who works in marketing for the O'Connell Organic Farm and Spa in Blossom Valley. Dana accompanies her friend and cook for the Farm and Spa, Zinnia, to the local farmers market to pick up supplies and they run into Zinnia's old flame, Birch. He's back living on the commune that he and Zinnia lived in all those years ago. (wait, there's a commune? It seems like everyone knew about this commune in the area except Dana) Birch and Zinnia haven't seen each other for 20+ years, and when he turns up murdered in her yard the next day, she is heartbroken and understandably unable to go to work. Dana, who lives off of frozen meals, takeout, and lots of other unhealthy snacks, has to step in and prepare the healthy and organic meals. Easy right? Oh, along with doing her regular marketing duties and solving the 'whodunnit'
There are some fun, laugh out loud moments in this book and it kept me turning the pages. I like that the main character isn't involved with someone on the local police as many of the plots of other cozies have. In fact, most of the book centers around Dana and her friends investigating, the police are just in the background. I didn't guess the identity of the murderer right away, there were lots of clues pointing to several suspects. There are lots of fun and quirky characters and I am looking forward to going back to read the others books in this series.
June 3, 2016
I received this book from Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
Murder Most Wholesome is the 5th book in the A Blossom Valley Mystery series, and my first book by this author. After reading this book, which I really enjoyed, I have to ask myself why I have not read any prior books. I will be reading the four prior books soon. Reading this book first, I did not feel lost at all in the story.
Dana Lewis primary job is marketing for the O'Connell Organic Farm & Spa in Blossom Valley, California, but she often finds herself filling in as needed. Zennia Patrakio is O'Connell chef and Dana's best friend. While at the organic market Dana and Zennia run into Zennia's true love, Birch, from 20 years ago when they both lived at a commune. When Birch is found dead in Zennia's yard Dana is determined to clear her friends name and get her back in the kitchen. Dana who does not know how to cook, and lives on fast food has to fill in as chef, until Zennia can return.
What a great book, it was funny, delightful, and had a twist and turn mystery. I enjoyed all the different characters, and their unique personalities. This book had me laughing out loud several times, but there was also suspenseful moments as well. I highly recommend this book for an all around wonderful cozy mystery.
Murder Most Wholesome is the 5th book in the A Blossom Valley Mystery series, and my first book by this author. After reading this book, which I really enjoyed, I have to ask myself why I have not read any prior books. I will be reading the four prior books soon. Reading this book first, I did not feel lost at all in the story.
Dana Lewis primary job is marketing for the O'Connell Organic Farm & Spa in Blossom Valley, California, but she often finds herself filling in as needed. Zennia Patrakio is O'Connell chef and Dana's best friend. While at the organic market Dana and Zennia run into Zennia's true love, Birch, from 20 years ago when they both lived at a commune. When Birch is found dead in Zennia's yard Dana is determined to clear her friends name and get her back in the kitchen. Dana who does not know how to cook, and lives on fast food has to fill in as chef, until Zennia can return.
What a great book, it was funny, delightful, and had a twist and turn mystery. I enjoyed all the different characters, and their unique personalities. This book had me laughing out loud several times, but there was also suspenseful moments as well. I highly recommend this book for an all around wonderful cozy mystery.
March 7, 2016
Murder Most Wholesome by Staci McLaughlin is the fifth book in A Blossom Valley Mystery series (can be read as a stand-alone book). Dana Lewis works at O'Connell Organic Farm and Spa handling their marketing (and social media). However, when the chef is unable to work due to a long lost love being murdered and left in her front yard, Dana has to take over (her idea of cooking is hamburger helper). Dana figures the best way to get Zennia (the cook) back to work is to solve the murder. Will Dana be able to figure out who killed Birch? Will the guests at O'Connell Organic Farm and Spa get edible (and healthy) meals (besides peanut butter and jelly)? You will need to read Murder Most Wholesome to find out. Murder Most Wholesome is easy to read and enjoyable. The murder mystery was extremely easy to solve (the killer was so obvious), but the writer provided great clues (and some misdirection). This is one of the better cozy mysteries I have read this week. I give Murder Most Wholesome 4 out of 5 stars. It has a sweet and romantic ending that you will not want to miss.
I received a complimentary copy of Murder Most Wholesome from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of Murder Most Wholesome from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 26, 2016
I received an e-version of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
MURDER MOST WHOLESOME is the 5th instalment in Staci McLaughlin’s Blossom Valley Mystery Series. Dana Lewis is working as a marketing executive at an organic farm and spa in Blossom Valley, California, although she hates vegetables and her idea of a home cooked meal includes Hamburger Helper. One of her co-workers is Zennia, an aging hippie who cooks fresh, organic meals for the spa. When Zennia’s long lost lover is murdered in her yard, not only does Dana have to do all the cooking for the spa, but she feels the need to solve the murder to bring closure to her friend. While learning how to cook vegetables and tofu, Dana also finds herself discovering a nearby commune where Zennia’s lover had been staying. A commune with serious financial and interpersonal problems.
This is an interesting story, but sometimes it seems that the author is over-explaining rather than letting the action and conversations tell the tale. Another problem is that, although Dana talks about her boyfriend’s great kisses, there just isn’t any chemistry there. Dana’s sister, Ashley, is such a secondary character that the reader may well wonder why she’s even in the story.
MURDER MOST WHOLESOME is the 5th instalment in Staci McLaughlin’s Blossom Valley Mystery Series. Dana Lewis is working as a marketing executive at an organic farm and spa in Blossom Valley, California, although she hates vegetables and her idea of a home cooked meal includes Hamburger Helper. One of her co-workers is Zennia, an aging hippie who cooks fresh, organic meals for the spa. When Zennia’s long lost lover is murdered in her yard, not only does Dana have to do all the cooking for the spa, but she feels the need to solve the murder to bring closure to her friend. While learning how to cook vegetables and tofu, Dana also finds herself discovering a nearby commune where Zennia’s lover had been staying. A commune with serious financial and interpersonal problems.
This is an interesting story, but sometimes it seems that the author is over-explaining rather than letting the action and conversations tell the tale. Another problem is that, although Dana talks about her boyfriend’s great kisses, there just isn’t any chemistry there. Dana’s sister, Ashley, is such a secondary character that the reader may well wonder why she’s even in the story.
February 21, 2016
Murder Most Wholesome is the fifth book in Staci McLaughlin’s Blossom Valley Mystery series. Even though I haven’t read the previous books in this series, Ms. McLaughlin provided great background information and I didn’t feel lost. This book is a well-plotted murder mystery with a cast of realistic characters. The story has enough twists, turns, and suspects to keep the reader involved. I highly recommend this book for readers who enjoy a good murder mystery. I plan to read the first four books in this series and look forward to reading the next installment. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading cozy mysteries.
While at the local farmers’ market, Dana Lewis, with her friend and co-worker, Zinnia Patrakio, she is surprised and intrigued to learn there is a commune outside Blossom Valley where they live and work. Zinnia calls Dana the next morning to let her know she won’t be at work that day because her old flame, Birch, who is a member of the commune, has been murdered and his body was found in her yard. Dana is determined to find out who killed him.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.
While at the local farmers’ market, Dana Lewis, with her friend and co-worker, Zinnia Patrakio, she is surprised and intrigued to learn there is a commune outside Blossom Valley where they live and work. Zinnia calls Dana the next morning to let her know she won’t be at work that day because her old flame, Birch, who is a member of the commune, has been murdered and his body was found in her yard. Dana is determined to find out who killed him.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.
January 25, 2016
This is the 1st book that I've read in this series. I was furnished an advance copy of the book by net galley in exchange for an honest review. I don't rehash the plot details in my reviews because the publisher has provided background information and others have written extensively about the plot.
Even though I had not read the prior books in this series, I was able to follow the story just fine. The setting was unusual since much of the book revolves around a commune that one of the main characters had lived in when she was younger. The mystery was well developed. The reason for the murder was also somewhat unique from other mysteries but I won't spoil the ending by revealing it here. For the most part, I found the characters engaging. I almost rated this book 4 stars but decided not to do because of Ashlee, the annoying sister and roommate of Dana, the main character. Dana seemed to be a wimp to put with Ashlee's behavior.
If you're looking for a clean cozy mystery with enjoyable characters and no graphic violence, then I recommend you try this series.
Even though I had not read the prior books in this series, I was able to follow the story just fine. The setting was unusual since much of the book revolves around a commune that one of the main characters had lived in when she was younger. The mystery was well developed. The reason for the murder was also somewhat unique from other mysteries but I won't spoil the ending by revealing it here. For the most part, I found the characters engaging. I almost rated this book 4 stars but decided not to do because of Ashlee, the annoying sister and roommate of Dana, the main character. Dana seemed to be a wimp to put with Ashlee's behavior.
If you're looking for a clean cozy mystery with enjoyable characters and no graphic violence, then I recommend you try this series.
February 27, 2016
Great Book!
This is a great book; this is the fifth book in the A Blossom Valley Mystery series by Staci McLaughlin. Dana Lewis and Zennia Patrakio work at the O’Connell Organic Farm and Spa in Blossom Valley, California. Zennia and Dana go to the Blossom Valley farmer’s market, Zennia is surprised to see Birch Keller who was Zennia’s one true love who got away. When Birch is found dead in Zennia’s garden she becomes one of the suspects. Dana and Zennia put their sleuthing skills to the test to find out what really happened. If you are looking for a great mystery then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
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.
This is a great book; this is the fifth book in the A Blossom Valley Mystery series by Staci McLaughlin. Dana Lewis and Zennia Patrakio work at the O’Connell Organic Farm and Spa in Blossom Valley, California. Zennia and Dana go to the Blossom Valley farmer’s market, Zennia is surprised to see Birch Keller who was Zennia’s one true love who got away. When Birch is found dead in Zennia’s garden she becomes one of the suspects. Dana and Zennia put their sleuthing skills to the test to find out what really happened. If you are looking for a great mystery then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
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.
February 19, 2016
Dana Lewis is working at an Organic Farm and Spa, catering to the wishes of her boss, and at times to the wealthy clients. Given that Dana is a junk food junkie, it is fun to see how Dana controls her work self and her real self.
She would rather have a burger and fries than a veggie platter. Take a relaxing trip to the spa, have a well balanced lunch, a soothing massage and catch up on Dana and her friends as they work, play and solve a murder or two.
FTC Full Disclosure - A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
She would rather have a burger and fries than a veggie platter. Take a relaxing trip to the spa, have a well balanced lunch, a soothing massage and catch up on Dana and her friends as they work, play and solve a murder or two.
FTC Full Disclosure - A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
March 19, 2016
Dana is at it again , involved in solving a murder! This time the mystery revolves around Zennia, the chef for the spa.
When and old boyfriend is found dead in her yard, Zennia enlists Dana's help to solve the crime. Between acting as the interim chef (Dana can't cook) and trying to keep up with her job as marketing director, Dana manages to find time( with the help of friends) to solve the mystery and winds up getting surprising news herself!!
A great read. I enjoy the diverse characters that the author has created and seeing them develop and grow with each book! A visit to Blossom Valley is well worth the trip!
When and old boyfriend is found dead in her yard, Zennia enlists Dana's help to solve the crime. Between acting as the interim chef (Dana can't cook) and trying to keep up with her job as marketing director, Dana manages to find time( with the help of friends) to solve the mystery and winds up getting surprising news herself!!
A great read. I enjoy the diverse characters that the author has created and seeing them develop and grow with each book! A visit to Blossom Valley is well worth the trip!
April 18, 2016
An hysterically funny look at the people eccentric and tough enough to survive the hippie movement!
When her friend's old boyfriend turns up dead in the front yard after a chance meeting at the farmers' market, Dana finds herself thrust into solving another murder and worse, filling in as cook! Her adventures finding the killer juxtapose nicely with her efforts to prepare meals slightly more gourmet than PopTarts. Handled with deftness and humor, this book is another excellent installment in the story of a PR specialist's recovery from the corporate world and build a new life in organic farming.
When her friend's old boyfriend turns up dead in the front yard after a chance meeting at the farmers' market, Dana finds herself thrust into solving another murder and worse, filling in as cook! Her adventures finding the killer juxtapose nicely with her efforts to prepare meals slightly more gourmet than PopTarts. Handled with deftness and humor, this book is another excellent installment in the story of a PR specialist's recovery from the corporate world and build a new life in organic farming.
January 22, 2016
Things seem to be going well for Dana. Her friend, Zennia is surprised when they run into an old flame of hers at the local farmers market. Dana is surprised to find out that there is a commune outside Blossom Valley that she never knew about. But when Zennia's old flame turns up dead in her front yard, Dana is determined to find out who killed him, and it seems there are a lot of people with lots of motives for wanting him dead.
I was given an advanced ecopy of this book from the publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was given an advanced ecopy of this book from the publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 23, 2016
Dana and Zinnia are friends that work for an organic spa and hotel. Zinnia is the expert chef focusing on healthy meals from local products. Now enters Birch, a blast from Zinnia's past. But before long-lost love can blossom, Birch is found murdered in Zinnia's garden. The rest of the book leads you on a whodunit chase that leads them to the community Birch was a member of.
This was a very quick and easy read. I found myself laughing out loud at some of the character's antics. The bonus to the book is a Recipe for Tofu stir fry. I might have to go get a vegetarian cookbook now.
This was a very quick and easy read. I found myself laughing out loud at some of the character's antics. The bonus to the book is a Recipe for Tofu stir fry. I might have to go get a vegetarian cookbook now.
January 24, 2016
A nice cozy mystery with some interesting insight in how a commune work.
And... that is about it?
I mean I do love cozy-mysteries. You read them and relax. You don't need to think over much.
This book was not particularly witty, nor has it an incredible setting (commune aside). The characters are just... here. Nice and all. But not incredible.
All in all a good book, but not an unforgettable of particular one.
And... that is about it?
I mean I do love cozy-mysteries. You read them and relax. You don't need to think over much.
This book was not particularly witty, nor has it an incredible setting (commune aside). The characters are just... here. Nice and all. But not incredible.
All in all a good book, but not an unforgettable of particular one.
February 11, 2016
entertaining fast read- a cozy where communes are good and commerce is bad (sort of). I enjoyed watching Dana mature, especially as a cook, although I do think the book might have been better served by rounding out some of the other characters (I could, however, totally see Ashlee!) The reasoning behind the murder did come as a surprise. The recipes were a nice addition. Thanks to netgalley for the arc; I did fine with this as a standalone but I'll look for more from McLaughlin.
January 31, 2016
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. How did I miss this series? This is the first book that I have read by this author and I am hooked. Staci McLaughlin does an amazing job of pulling the reader into the story. I admit that once I started this book I did not stop until I finished. Great job.
September 23, 2016
The content of the book mostly is the descriptions of the daily routine of the organic spa staff and the introduction of the residents of a commune nearby. The book is very laid back, fun, and easy to read, making it perfect to take it with you to the beach. If you like reading about aging hippies and their lives in a commune, you may like this book. Three and a half stars.
January 20, 2016
A member of a commune is murdered and Dana Lewis of O'Connell Organic Farm & Spa investigates - didn't really find the characters or the plot that interesting
Book received free from NetGalley
Book received free from NetGalley
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July 26, 2016Book was ok - not really exciting.
April 8, 2023
This is the first book I've read in this series. I knew the who done it fairly quickly but the why surprised me a bit. Overall, I enjoyed the story and would read others in the series.
March 20, 2017
Rather tedious and dull. Too many others out there to spend your time on
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