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Dewberry Farm #2
Fatal Frost
Lucy Resnick’s nerves are as tight as a tea cozy. Her new goats, Hot Lips and Gidget, keep making a break for the town square, her truck is dying, and her boyfriend’s gorgeous ex-wife is in town for the holidays. Worse, someone’s digging holes on her land…and uprooting her peach orchard and dewberry patch in the process. Lucy needs additional holiday stress like she needs a blow to the head—which she receives one night, courtesy of the mystery digger.
When the dim-witted sheriff arrests one of Lucy’s best friends, the former reporter puts her own problems on the back burner and starts investigating. What she finds is a patchwork of clues—an injured puppy, a sapphire necklace gone missing, and a string of poison-pen letters—that draws her deep into a web of small-town secrets.
Word travels fast in Buttercup. When the killer learns Lucy’s on the trail, Lucy finds she needs more than her reporting skills to save her friend—she needs a Christmas miracle.
When the dim-witted sheriff arrests one of Lucy’s best friends, the former reporter puts her own problems on the back burner and starts investigating. What she finds is a patchwork of clues—an injured puppy, a sapphire necklace gone missing, and a string of poison-pen letters—that draws her deep into a web of small-town secrets.
Word travels fast in Buttercup. When the killer learns Lucy’s on the trail, Lucy finds she needs more than her reporting skills to save her friend—she needs a Christmas miracle.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 18, 2016
728 people are currently reading
1135 people want to read
About the author
Karen MacInerney
52 books1,142 followersI'm the author of the Agatha-nominated Gray Whale Inn mystery series, Tales of an Urban Werewolf. the Margie Peterson mysteries and the Dewberry Farm mysteries (plus a new fantasy in the works). My reading is like my writing: eclectic!
I grew up in the Northeast, but I currently live in Austin with my husband, two kids, and a houserabbit named Bunny. Feel free to visit me online at www.karenmacinerney.com; I love connecting with readers.
I grew up in the Northeast, but I currently live in Austin with my husband, two kids, and a houserabbit named Bunny. Feel free to visit me online at www.karenmacinerney.com; I love connecting with readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 249 reviews
July 6, 2019
A brilliantly fun continuation of the Dewberry Farm series. In this edition Lucy and a friend stumble across a burning building and haul out a woman's body (and a puppy). Tragically it turns out that the woman is already dead, and not from the fire. Another of Lucy's close friends is soon arrested for the murder, by incompetent sheriff Rooster. So Lucy is on a mission to find the real killer. Added to this she gets a whack on the head from someone trying to dig up her property one night. And her new goats keep getting out. Plus her new boyfriend's gorgeous ex is in town. Life is busy, as always, for Lucy.
I love this lighthearted series. It has engaging characters, hilarious animals, and some delicious sounding recipes. If you like cosy mysteries, definitely give this series a go.
I love this lighthearted series. It has engaging characters, hilarious animals, and some delicious sounding recipes. If you like cosy mysteries, definitely give this series a go.
September 7, 2018
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
This was a fun listen. I listened to the first book in this series a little over a year ago and I have been wanting to get back to it ever since. Since I am currently in the middle of a three month Kindle Unlimited membership, I grabbed this just as soon as I saw that it was available in the program. This is the second book in the Dewberry Farm Mysteries series but I think that it would work perfectly fine. It was really nice to spend a bit of time with Lucy and the other characters from Buttercup.
I didn't even realize that this was a Christmas story until I got started listening. My eyes are not great anymore so I did not notice the Christmas lights on the cover and I rarely read blurbs very closely so I was pretty clueless. If you are not a fan of Christmas stories, this really only had a touch of the holiday worked into the story.
There were quite a few things going on in this book and it was great watching Lucy try to figure everything out. She happens to be around when a body is pulled from a fire and quickly notices that there might be something strange about the situation. Her best friend's teenage daughter has runaway to get married causing quite a bit of drama. Her best friend ends up in jail but Lucy knows she is innocent so she works to find the information that lead to the real criminal. To top everything off, someone is busy looking for treasure in town and is even digging around on Lucy's farm.
I liked the characters quite a bit. Lucy is great and has a lot of spunk. She really is happy in the little town of Buttercup and can handle difficult situations very well. Her boyfriend wasn't around a whole lot in this book and I did miss him a little but their relationship did have some progress which I was happy with. Lucy's friends played an important role and the goats she adopts at the beginning of the story added a few interesting moments.
I thought that the mystery was really well done. I liked how some things connected to other things going on in the book while others were really unrelated. I had a few suspicions but I couldn't get everything figured out until it was revealed in most cases which added to the fun. There were some pretty exciting moments where I wasn't really sure how things would work out. This was one of those books that I kept wanting to listen to just a bit more because I had to know what was going to happen next.
Teri Clark Linden does a great job with the narration. I really felt like I was right there with Lucy as she was making her way through the story. I think she handled all of the character voices very well and really brought the story to life. I wouldn't hesitate to listen to more of her work in the future.
I would recommend this book to others. I thought that this story had a great cast of characters and a compelling mystery. I really have enjoyed the audiobooks for the first two books and must admit that I was disappointed to find that no audiobook is currently available for the remainder of the series but I would still like to finish the series soon.
Initial Thoughts
This was a fun listen. I couldn't quite figure out who was responsible for everything until the end of the story which made the mystery entertaining. There was a whole lot going on in the book and I liked how everything came together. I like the characters a lot and it was nice to get a chance to meet Lucy's parents. I thought that the occasional ghostly influence of her grandmother was nicely done as well. The narration worked well for the story.
Book source: Kindle Unlimited
This was a fun listen. I listened to the first book in this series a little over a year ago and I have been wanting to get back to it ever since. Since I am currently in the middle of a three month Kindle Unlimited membership, I grabbed this just as soon as I saw that it was available in the program. This is the second book in the Dewberry Farm Mysteries series but I think that it would work perfectly fine. It was really nice to spend a bit of time with Lucy and the other characters from Buttercup.
I didn't even realize that this was a Christmas story until I got started listening. My eyes are not great anymore so I did not notice the Christmas lights on the cover and I rarely read blurbs very closely so I was pretty clueless. If you are not a fan of Christmas stories, this really only had a touch of the holiday worked into the story.
There were quite a few things going on in this book and it was great watching Lucy try to figure everything out. She happens to be around when a body is pulled from a fire and quickly notices that there might be something strange about the situation. Her best friend's teenage daughter has runaway to get married causing quite a bit of drama. Her best friend ends up in jail but Lucy knows she is innocent so she works to find the information that lead to the real criminal. To top everything off, someone is busy looking for treasure in town and is even digging around on Lucy's farm.
I liked the characters quite a bit. Lucy is great and has a lot of spunk. She really is happy in the little town of Buttercup and can handle difficult situations very well. Her boyfriend wasn't around a whole lot in this book and I did miss him a little but their relationship did have some progress which I was happy with. Lucy's friends played an important role and the goats she adopts at the beginning of the story added a few interesting moments.
I thought that the mystery was really well done. I liked how some things connected to other things going on in the book while others were really unrelated. I had a few suspicions but I couldn't get everything figured out until it was revealed in most cases which added to the fun. There were some pretty exciting moments where I wasn't really sure how things would work out. This was one of those books that I kept wanting to listen to just a bit more because I had to know what was going to happen next.
Teri Clark Linden does a great job with the narration. I really felt like I was right there with Lucy as she was making her way through the story. I think she handled all of the character voices very well and really brought the story to life. I wouldn't hesitate to listen to more of her work in the future.
I would recommend this book to others. I thought that this story had a great cast of characters and a compelling mystery. I really have enjoyed the audiobooks for the first two books and must admit that I was disappointed to find that no audiobook is currently available for the remainder of the series but I would still like to finish the series soon.
Initial Thoughts
This was a fun listen. I couldn't quite figure out who was responsible for everything until the end of the story which made the mystery entertaining. There was a whole lot going on in the book and I liked how everything came together. I like the characters a lot and it was nice to get a chance to meet Lucy's parents. I thought that the occasional ghostly influence of her grandmother was nicely done as well. The narration worked well for the story.
Book source: Kindle Unlimited
September 22, 2016
When Lucy Resnick's mini apricot poodle, Chuck, wakes her in the middle of the night with ferocious growling; she discovers someone digging holes on her property, Dewberry Farm. Normally, Buttercup, TX has little to no crime unlike the big city of Houston where she left her job as an investigative reporter. A friend, Quinn; proprietor of the Blue Onion Cafe, tells Lucy that several neighbors have complained about the same type of trespassing. Old lore hints of lots of gold buried in the area. When a missing waitress is discovered dead inside her burning rent house, another of Lucy's friends is accused of the murder by the lazy town sheriff who's not interested in looking for true suspects unless they're practically handed to him!
A controversial church; the mysterious hole digging; plus other numerous and perplexing red herrings make this a snappy, fast-paced plot and an entertaining read. The antics of the farm animals add cute dashes of laughter along the way.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A controversial church; the mysterious hole digging; plus other numerous and perplexing red herrings make this a snappy, fast-paced plot and an entertaining read. The antics of the farm animals add cute dashes of laughter along the way.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2018
Just like Killer Jam, the first book in this series I absolutely loved this book and it also made it in the top 5 I read in 2016! It was so much fun to come back and visit Lucy and her friends in Buttercup. I wish the story would have taken place a little more on Dewberry Farm but it was so fast paced and fun to read that I didn't miss it until the end. I had an idea who the killer was since around half way into the book but that didn't make it any page turning. Don't miss out on this great series! This book was released 2 days ago and I am already looking forward to the next one...
In the meantime I will just read Karen MacInerny's Grey Whale Inn series. :)
In the meantime I will just read Karen MacInerny's Grey Whale Inn series. :)
October 17, 2016
It’s December, and Lucy Resnick has her hands full because someone digging on her property, the local Christmas market and the protests against it, and her boyfriend’s ex-wife being in town. Things get even more complicated when Lucy is on the scene of a house fire when a dead body is found. Worse yet, the sheriff is certain that Lucy’s friend Molly is the killer. Can Lucy clear her friend before the holiday?
It was wonderful to revisit these characters and get to see them grow over the course of the book. The plot moves swiftly with the murder and various sub-plots expertly balanced to keep our attention focused. The Christmas setting was a lot of fun as well and added to the book and influenced the recipes at the end.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
It was wonderful to revisit these characters and get to see them grow over the course of the book. The plot moves swiftly with the murder and various sub-plots expertly balanced to keep our attention focused. The Christmas setting was a lot of fun as well and added to the book and influenced the recipes at the end.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
April 9, 2017
I loved the first book but I scratched my head on this one, thinking "what happened?" I was so bored throughout the book. I really didn't seem to care about the murder, the treasure digging on Lucy's property, the paranormal elements, Brandi eloping, etc.
I flip flopped back and forth between the audio and the ebook, thinking either media would spark more interest. It didn't work. I am puzzled by the number of 5 star reviews on GR. I wondered if I was reading the same book as everyone else. Since I was buddy reading it with a friend, I am almost sure it was not me who was unimpressed with this sophomore effort as my friend also shared the same sentiments as I. I haven't given up on this series since I love the author and her Gray Whale Inn series.
I gave this book at the very most 3 stars. I'm hoping there will be vast improvement with the next book.
I flip flopped back and forth between the audio and the ebook, thinking either media would spark more interest. It didn't work. I am puzzled by the number of 5 star reviews on GR. I wondered if I was reading the same book as everyone else. Since I was buddy reading it with a friend, I am almost sure it was not me who was unimpressed with this sophomore effort as my friend also shared the same sentiments as I. I haven't given up on this series since I love the author and her Gray Whale Inn series.
I gave this book at the very most 3 stars. I'm hoping there will be vast improvement with the next book.
June 16, 2017
My second trip to Dewberry Farm lasted less than 24 hours and I'm already antsy to go back. I love the sense of community this series brings. This is small town living some right minus the murders lol. I can't wait for the release of the next book.
March 3, 2022
Someone has been digging up Buttercup and now a young woman is dead. Lucy thinks they maybe connected and with a useless sheriff around, the only way they will find out the truth, is if Lucy does some investigating of her own.
So it wasn't bad at all. I just wasn't into it today. I think I was just not in the mood for a cozy mystery. But in general, this series has been descent. The farm life aspect is really interesting to me and I like the recipes at the end as well.
Recommended age 16+
Minimal violence but in general just aimed at an older audience.
So it wasn't bad at all. I just wasn't into it today. I think I was just not in the mood for a cozy mystery. But in general, this series has been descent. The farm life aspect is really interesting to me and I like the recipes at the end as well.
Recommended age 16+
Minimal violence but in general just aimed at an older audience.
January 30, 2023
3.5 stars, rounded up
I’m really enjoying this author’s Gray Whale Inn series, so I decided to give this Dewberry Farm series a shot too, and I haven’t regretted it. The setting of a small town in Texas is vastly different from that of a small town in Maine, but the author describes both well – the town itself, the people, their attitudes and relationships, and the challenges that arise.
I like Lucy and her determination to make a go of the farm, and the memories she has of spending time there as a kid. Most of the town’s residents sound like people I’d like to spend time with, with a few notable exceptions, and I like the way they support each other in a way you just don’t see in cities or even larger towns.
The murder victim was generally well-liked around town, but as the story progressed, more was disclosed about her life that added names to the list of potential suspects, although the actual killer never made it onto my list at all. The motive made sense when that was revealed, though. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series to find out what happens next with Lucy, Tobias, Quinn and the rest.
I’m really enjoying this author’s Gray Whale Inn series, so I decided to give this Dewberry Farm series a shot too, and I haven’t regretted it. The setting of a small town in Texas is vastly different from that of a small town in Maine, but the author describes both well – the town itself, the people, their attitudes and relationships, and the challenges that arise.
I like Lucy and her determination to make a go of the farm, and the memories she has of spending time there as a kid. Most of the town’s residents sound like people I’d like to spend time with, with a few notable exceptions, and I like the way they support each other in a way you just don’t see in cities or even larger towns.
The murder victim was generally well-liked around town, but as the story progressed, more was disclosed about her life that added names to the list of potential suspects, although the actual killer never made it onto my list at all. The motive made sense when that was revealed, though. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series to find out what happens next with Lucy, Tobias, Quinn and the rest.
March 14, 2019
I have wanting to read this author for a while. When this book was on my Kindle I downloaded it. The second book in the Dewberry Farm series. Lucy Resnick is awake at night by a prowler in her new Newberry patch and peach trees. She attended interrupt them but she hit by a shovel. The trespasser managed to get away. He had been digging holes near the creek did damage the plants in the area. That morning Lucy was headed to Pete Swenson’s organic farm, Green Haven to pick up her goats.
There is a fire alarm and Pete headed toward it. He still had Lucy's goats. Arriving Pete headed into burning building carries the occupant and a black puppy out. The young girl is dead and the fire didn't kill her. Lucy parents arrived to visit and her Mother begins to help around the farm. The sheriff, as usual, decided to arrest the wrong person. Lucy and her friends decided they needed to find the killer. Lucy romance with the veterinarian continues to move slowly along. Lucy new goats, Hot Lips, and Gidget add humor to the story. Who kill the victim and why was she killed? I recommend the book.
There is a fire alarm and Pete headed toward it. He still had Lucy's goats. Arriving Pete headed into burning building carries the occupant and a black puppy out. The young girl is dead and the fire didn't kill her. Lucy parents arrived to visit and her Mother begins to help around the farm. The sheriff, as usual, decided to arrest the wrong person. Lucy and her friends decided they needed to find the killer. Lucy romance with the veterinarian continues to move slowly along. Lucy new goats, Hot Lips, and Gidget add humor to the story. Who kill the victim and why was she killed? I recommend the book.
August 25, 2021
Book 2 of is Christmas and they are having a Christmas Market. Lucy has a farm in Dewberry Farm where there are peach orchids. And some animals. A girl named Krystal did not show up from work. Quinn Lucy friend was wondering what happened to her. Come to find out that Krystal died in a fire. So Lucy trying to find killer. It was an alright book. But nothing really about Christmas. It was a to fast story. I read book 1 it was alright to. So I might skip book 3
April 18, 2017
This is the second book in the Dewberry Farm Mystery series and although not as good as the first one, was still an interesting and amusing read. This book had many subplots that did not necessarily have to do with the murder in the story, but did tie together at the end. A new-fangled church, someone digging on property by Dewberry Creek, a 17 year old that leaves home to elope, poison pen letters, the Christmas Market as well as two murders.
Once again we find Lucy struggling to make a go of Dewberry Farms. When she finds out that someone is digging up her land near the creek, she investigates and gets hit on the head with a shovel. Her Dewberry patch has been dug up and two of her peach trees upended as well as her truck is giving out. She is continuing her relationship with the local vet, but his ex-wife is in town. When the waitress, Krystal, from her best friend's cafe is found murdered, Rooster Kocurek, the incompetent sheriff arrests her friend Molly. Molly's daughter runs off with the son of the new pastor of the upstart church and she is frantic. Wanda and Ethel, two crusty women that belong to the new church seem to have it out for Molly and Lucy. When Lucy receives a poison pen letter about her relationship, she finds out that a lot of others have as well. Of course Lucy can't let Molly remain in jail so she sets off to investigate.
I like Karen MacInerney's writing style and read this book very quickly. She added some humour to the mystery along with a hint of a romance. The return to town of the ex-wife had Lucy on her heals, but it all turns out. Bringing in the delightful setting makes for a very well rounded story. It also has recipes at the end of the book that look yummy. I would definitely recommend this book to those who enjoy Cozy Mysteries, especially if you love the food and the chance to make it at home.
With many thanks to Thomas and Mercer and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book.
Once again we find Lucy struggling to make a go of Dewberry Farms. When she finds out that someone is digging up her land near the creek, she investigates and gets hit on the head with a shovel. Her Dewberry patch has been dug up and two of her peach trees upended as well as her truck is giving out. She is continuing her relationship with the local vet, but his ex-wife is in town. When the waitress, Krystal, from her best friend's cafe is found murdered, Rooster Kocurek, the incompetent sheriff arrests her friend Molly. Molly's daughter runs off with the son of the new pastor of the upstart church and she is frantic. Wanda and Ethel, two crusty women that belong to the new church seem to have it out for Molly and Lucy. When Lucy receives a poison pen letter about her relationship, she finds out that a lot of others have as well. Of course Lucy can't let Molly remain in jail so she sets off to investigate.
I like Karen MacInerney's writing style and read this book very quickly. She added some humour to the mystery along with a hint of a romance. The return to town of the ex-wife had Lucy on her heals, but it all turns out. Bringing in the delightful setting makes for a very well rounded story. It also has recipes at the end of the book that look yummy. I would definitely recommend this book to those who enjoy Cozy Mysteries, especially if you love the food and the chance to make it at home.
With many thanks to Thomas and Mercer and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book.
May 20, 2017
The first book in the series, Killer Jam, was a decent read but after this second installment I won't pick up another. The characters are likable, but the story went round and round, inching painfully to the final reveal in the last few pages. A fluff read needs to be entertaining, at the very least.
March 20, 2022
I am really enjoying this series! Love all the homesteading aspects and the delicious food descriptions (recipes provided at the end of the story!) There's a great community of unique characters who bring added depth and drama to the story. This time it's Lucy's friend, Molly, who is erroneously accused of murder. I will say that I've never encountered such a dimwitted, lacklustre sheriff in a cozy and his inept bungling might become a downer if it continues throughout the series. I mean, no one bothers to report crimes because they know there's no point! Provides an open field for Lucy to put her 15 years of investigative reporting to use though. It just irks me that everyone in the town, including the mayor, knows how incompetent the sheriff is but they don't do anything about it. Still, I enjoyed this second book, especially the addition to two goats -- Hot Lips and Gidget -- who join Lucy's escape artist extraordinaire cow on Dewberry Farm. :-)
June 24, 2017
Thanks to Goodread and Amazon Kindle for the free copy of this book.
This was the first book that I have read by Karen MacInerney but I am sure that it won't be my last. This is a fun cozy murder mystery that kept me guessing who the killer was until the end.
Lucy Resnick left her job as an investigative reporter for a newspaper in Houston to move to her late grandmother's farm in nearby Buttercup, Texas. She is trying to make a go of it by raising and selling vegetables and peaches, selling milk from her cow, Blossom, and has just acquired her new goats, Hot Lips and Gidget. She has plans to make soap with the goats' milk. But her truck is dying and she is having a hard time making ends meet and paying the mortgage on the farm. At the time, the town is holding a Christmas Market nightly where local vendors sell their wares. Lucy's friend, Quinn owns the Blue Onion cafe and has a booth where she is selling some of her goods. Lucy is selling mistletoe in Quinn's booth.
When a local woman's house burns with her it in and it is determined that she was dead before the fire, Lucy's friend Molly is accused of her death. The victim, Krystal Jenkins, has been poisoned by seeds from an Angel's Trumpet plant mixed in bread made from a homemade starter given by Molly. The local incompetent sheriff Rooster Kocurek arrests Molly without really doing any investigation. During the excitement of the murder and before Molly's arrest, her daughter Brittany runs off with her boyfriend Bryce, son of the minister of the Word of the Lord church. Lucy and her friend Quinn set out to find out who killed Krystal thus proving that Molly is innocent while trying to figure out what has happened to Brittany and Bryce. To complicate matters, Lucy's boyfriend, local veterinarian Tobias Brandt, is allowing his ex wife, Mindy, to stay at his house while she is looking for a weekend house in Buttercup. Lucy is dealing with all of the above when her parents come to visit and stay with her for Christmas. While the Christmas Market is going on, the members of the Word of the Lord Church are picketing the market saying that it is commercializing Christmas. There are lots of crazy characters in Buttercup and it makes for a wacky search for someone out to kill Krystal and try to pin it on Molly. Why did Brittany leave with Bryce? Someone is sending threatening and accusatory letters to women of the town, including Krystal, Brittany, Quinn and now Lucy as well as others. Lucy is having a rough December balancing all that is going on. Fatal Frost is a fun read that you will keep you guessing until the end.
This was the first book that I have read by Karen MacInerney but I am sure that it won't be my last. This is a fun cozy murder mystery that kept me guessing who the killer was until the end.
Lucy Resnick left her job as an investigative reporter for a newspaper in Houston to move to her late grandmother's farm in nearby Buttercup, Texas. She is trying to make a go of it by raising and selling vegetables and peaches, selling milk from her cow, Blossom, and has just acquired her new goats, Hot Lips and Gidget. She has plans to make soap with the goats' milk. But her truck is dying and she is having a hard time making ends meet and paying the mortgage on the farm. At the time, the town is holding a Christmas Market nightly where local vendors sell their wares. Lucy's friend, Quinn owns the Blue Onion cafe and has a booth where she is selling some of her goods. Lucy is selling mistletoe in Quinn's booth.
When a local woman's house burns with her it in and it is determined that she was dead before the fire, Lucy's friend Molly is accused of her death. The victim, Krystal Jenkins, has been poisoned by seeds from an Angel's Trumpet plant mixed in bread made from a homemade starter given by Molly. The local incompetent sheriff Rooster Kocurek arrests Molly without really doing any investigation. During the excitement of the murder and before Molly's arrest, her daughter Brittany runs off with her boyfriend Bryce, son of the minister of the Word of the Lord church. Lucy and her friend Quinn set out to find out who killed Krystal thus proving that Molly is innocent while trying to figure out what has happened to Brittany and Bryce. To complicate matters, Lucy's boyfriend, local veterinarian Tobias Brandt, is allowing his ex wife, Mindy, to stay at his house while she is looking for a weekend house in Buttercup. Lucy is dealing with all of the above when her parents come to visit and stay with her for Christmas. While the Christmas Market is going on, the members of the Word of the Lord Church are picketing the market saying that it is commercializing Christmas. There are lots of crazy characters in Buttercup and it makes for a wacky search for someone out to kill Krystal and try to pin it on Molly. Why did Brittany leave with Bryce? Someone is sending threatening and accusatory letters to women of the town, including Krystal, Brittany, Quinn and now Lucy as well as others. Lucy is having a rough December balancing all that is going on. Fatal Frost is a fun read that you will keep you guessing until the end.
March 23, 2018
This is another winner from Karen MacInerney. The Christmas backdrop with the frosty nights, delicious baked goods and lively Christmas market works well and is beautifully described. The market setting allows the reader to meet some new community members and reconnect with characters introduced in Book 1.
The mystery surrounding Krystal's murder is well-plotted and several viable suspects emerge. Very convincing motives and ample instances of opportunity arise as the victim's secrets are revealed.
That brings me to my main source of contention with this story. I'm not a stickler for believability in a Cozy Mystery and I lovingly embrace the almost clichéd ingredients in most Cozies. For example, there's often an incompetent law enforcement official whose ignorance forces the heroine to solve the mystery herself. Rooster Kocurek is definitely incompetent and the whole town knows it. His evidence against Molly was far too circumstantial to warrant an arrest. (He had more against Lucy in Book 1 and never arrested her). Even if he could arrest Molly, any lawyer could poke holes in the case. Yet, there are Molly and her friends quaking in their boots fearing that she's destined for the big lock-up. I can suspend belief once it's in-keeping with the context of the story and overall tone. I felt that was a miss in this case.
Other than that, the story was well-told. The pacing of the storytelling was good. Clues were revealed at a good pace. Contradictory evidence left the reader guessing as to who the real culprit might be and why. The secondary story of the 'treasure hunt' is entertaining and adds to the community flavour.
I love Buttercup. Although I think the first story was the stronger one, I still feel very invested in this series and its characters. Will definitely be trying Book 3.
The mystery surrounding Krystal's murder is well-plotted and several viable suspects emerge. Very convincing motives and ample instances of opportunity arise as the victim's secrets are revealed.
That brings me to my main source of contention with this story. I'm not a stickler for believability in a Cozy Mystery and I lovingly embrace the almost clichéd ingredients in most Cozies. For example, there's often an incompetent law enforcement official whose ignorance forces the heroine to solve the mystery herself. Rooster Kocurek is definitely incompetent and the whole town knows it. His evidence against Molly was far too circumstantial to warrant an arrest. (He had more against Lucy in Book 1 and never arrested her). Even if he could arrest Molly, any lawyer could poke holes in the case. Yet, there are Molly and her friends quaking in their boots fearing that she's destined for the big lock-up. I can suspend belief once it's in-keeping with the context of the story and overall tone. I felt that was a miss in this case.
Other than that, the story was well-told. The pacing of the storytelling was good. Clues were revealed at a good pace. Contradictory evidence left the reader guessing as to who the real culprit might be and why. The secondary story of the 'treasure hunt' is entertaining and adds to the community flavour.
I love Buttercup. Although I think the first story was the stronger one, I still feel very invested in this series and its characters. Will definitely be trying Book 3.
March 26, 2018
I love Karen MacInerney books. Her stories are well thought out, great characters that make you want to meet most of them and a mystery that makes you want to turn to the end to find out who the killer is but you don't.
Lucy Resnick went from working for the newspaper as a former report to owning her grandparents farm and is loving every minute of it. She just bought two goats to add to her farm and she can tell they are going to be a challenge. When she hears someone digging on her property she goes to investigates and get hit in the head. On top of that when a local dies the sheriff arrest one of Lucy's friends. Since Lucy doesn't trust the sheriff to look for any more suspects she starts her own investigating. Could the person that was digging around her property have connections to the murder. Also who is sending the poison-pen letters? What a great read. Highly recommend this series.
Lucy Resnick went from working for the newspaper as a former report to owning her grandparents farm and is loving every minute of it. She just bought two goats to add to her farm and she can tell they are going to be a challenge. When she hears someone digging on her property she goes to investigates and get hit in the head. On top of that when a local dies the sheriff arrest one of Lucy's friends. Since Lucy doesn't trust the sheriff to look for any more suspects she starts her own investigating. Could the person that was digging around her property have connections to the murder. Also who is sending the poison-pen letters? What a great read. Highly recommend this series.
April 7, 2017
Fatal Frost by Karen MacInerney is the second book in the Dewberry farm Mystery series. Dewberry farm owner Lucy Resnick is picking up her goats when she sees a house fire. A body of a young girl is pulled out, but it is found that she had been poisoned and the fire set to cover up the murder. When one of her friends is arrested, Lucy investigates. An enjoyable, interesting mystery and although slow paced, seemed to have plenty going on. My main complaint is that it is unbelievable that they could have such a stupid and lazy sheriff. The recipes sound delicious.
April 14, 2019
A gentle second book in the series, Karen MacInerney writes about smalltown problems and smalltown people, you don't expect the problems to include murder though!
It is coming up on Christmas but this is not really the season of Joy and Thanksgiving, in Buttercup there is a Christmas fair running, but a new church is trying to get people to boycott this, even though the money is to help a local person get adaptations to her house so she can stay in it. One of Lucy's friends (Molly) has a daughter who has joined that church, mainly because she is going out with the preacher's son. Part way through the week of the fair there is a problem with a fire in a house, what we discover is a) the person renting the house was dead before the fire started and b) there was a black lab puppy who was alive but burned.
Now Molly is worried as her daughter has eloped with the preacher's son, and when she goes to report this to the local sheriff he arrests her for the murder of the woman in the house! Now Lucy needs to put her investigative reporters had back on, ignore the fact that her boyfriend's stunning ex is in town, and find out the truth as Rooster (the sheriff) is not looking at anybody else other than Molly.
It is coming up on Christmas but this is not really the season of Joy and Thanksgiving, in Buttercup there is a Christmas fair running, but a new church is trying to get people to boycott this, even though the money is to help a local person get adaptations to her house so she can stay in it. One of Lucy's friends (Molly) has a daughter who has joined that church, mainly because she is going out with the preacher's son. Part way through the week of the fair there is a problem with a fire in a house, what we discover is a) the person renting the house was dead before the fire started and b) there was a black lab puppy who was alive but burned.
Now Molly is worried as her daughter has eloped with the preacher's son, and when she goes to report this to the local sheriff he arrests her for the murder of the woman in the house! Now Lucy needs to put her investigative reporters had back on, ignore the fact that her boyfriend's stunning ex is in town, and find out the truth as Rooster (the sheriff) is not looking at anybody else other than Molly.
January 22, 2021
Wonderful second visit to Dewberry Farm with Lucy & all the assorted Buttercup folks. Not as centrally focused on the farm itself, but this entry widened out a bit more into the town which was nice. Extremely well written cozy & will definitely be continuing with the series.
November 26, 2025
Really had fun reading it. The only issue with closed community murder mysteries is that eventually all the people you get to know die around you. So far the series is good though. I'm considering of giving a go to the recipes in the end of the book.
August 13, 2018
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup. (posting 11/27)
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2MGWFD9
Nice mysteries, interesting set up, great narration. Fatal Frost was a fantastic time.
The Gist: Someone is intent on being a Grinch. The ladies in town are receiving nasty letters accusing them of all kinds of things and two of those ladies, well, they wind up dead. Even worse? One of Lucy's good friends is being accused of the murders.
The Story
I enjoy Lucy. She's hardy stock. A recent addition to the town after she purchased her grandmother's old farm she's still getting the swing of farm life and trying to find a way to make a living off of the items it produces. I like seeing her on the farm and figuring things out. She's crafty and resourceful.
There's a tiny bit of romance though it takes a distant second seat to the mystery. I hope that'll play a bit more into the next one.
And the mystery was nicely done. Full of interesting elements and not completely easy to guess. I liked watching it play out and seeing Lucy and those around her figure out the pieces of several different issues that pop up.
The Narration
Teri Clark Linden is one of my favorites. She did a fantastic job with a ton of characters (main and secondary town folk) and kept things flowing nicely. I listened at 1.25 speed.
Overall, a fantastic read/listen. It was easy to fall into the story and time quickly passed. With an easy narration and interesting mystery Fatal Frost was time well spent.
November 9, 2019
Lucy’s dog, Chuck, wakes her one night leading her to discover someone digging holes on her property and damaging her peach orchard and dewberry patch. When she goes to investigate she is hit in the head by the unknown digger. Lucy hesitates to call the sheriff since he isn’t particularly fond of her.
Things get crazier when Lucy goes to pick up some new additions to the farm, goats. Hot Lips and Gidget are quick to figure out how to escape their enclosure and lead their new owner on chases from farm to town. Stress builds when local crime takes off, her friend Molly is arrested, Molly’s 17 year-old daughter runs away to elope, and Lucy’s parents arrive for a surprise visit. It shouldn’t be a shock when secrets are discovered and a killer has a new target. Will Lucy live to see Christmas?
I enjoyed this book very much. The setting is peaceful (if you can look past the crime). I would love to live on a farm outside a small town. The characters are relatable and well-written. There is just the right amount of tension between some of the characters. The plot moves at a steady pace. I didn’t want to put the book down. I recommend this book and I am looking forward to reading book 3 (I bought all of the books on my mother’s recommendation).
Things get crazier when Lucy goes to pick up some new additions to the farm, goats. Hot Lips and Gidget are quick to figure out how to escape their enclosure and lead their new owner on chases from farm to town. Stress builds when local crime takes off, her friend Molly is arrested, Molly’s 17 year-old daughter runs away to elope, and Lucy’s parents arrive for a surprise visit. It shouldn’t be a shock when secrets are discovered and a killer has a new target. Will Lucy live to see Christmas?
I enjoyed this book very much. The setting is peaceful (if you can look past the crime). I would love to live on a farm outside a small town. The characters are relatable and well-written. There is just the right amount of tension between some of the characters. The plot moves at a steady pace. I didn’t want to put the book down. I recommend this book and I am looking forward to reading book 3 (I bought all of the books on my mother’s recommendation).
December 18, 2017
A very well written story that flowed well, with believable characters. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story and thanks for having this as a giveaway that I won; so I was able to meet Lucy Resnick and the other characters that live in Buttercup, TX. Transplanted city-girl and former investigative reporter, Lucy Resnick, has a nose for ferreting out the truth and helping to solve "mysteries" in her newly adopted little town of Buttercup. Armed with her wits, good friends, and comical animals; Lucy looks into the murder of a woman; when the local Sheriff is intent on laying the blame on one of her friends.
I didn't feel that I lost anything by not reading the first book in this series. Although, I would love to read that one too!
I didn't feel that I lost anything by not reading the first book in this series. Although, I would love to read that one too!
March 4, 2020
Lucy Resnick is an ex-investigative reporter who moved to her late grandmother's farm in Buttercup, Texas. She's struggling to make ends meet, and doesn't know if her truck will make it through the winter. But she's doing her best, and determined to make something of her farm. While in bed one night, her poodle Chuck starts barking and won't stop. Lucy hears noises outside, and goes to investigate, armed only with a hoe. But she trips and is hit over the head, awaking two hours later.
The next morning, she goes to pick up two goats from her friend Peter, and while there, they see smoke in the distance. When they go to see what's happening, a home is on fire. Peter, a volunteer fireman, tells Lucy to call 911 -- and runs inside to see if anyone is home. He comes out with a young woman, and then once again with a black puppy. The woman is Krystal, a waitress for her friend Quinn, and it appears she was dead when the fire started.
When people are questioned about who wanted Krystal dead, the first person thought of is Lucy's friend Molly, who had an argument with her about Molly's daughter Brittney. Now Molly is in jail for murder, Lucy's trying to keep her goats penned, her parents have come for Christmas, and she finds out her boyfriend, local veterinarian Tobias's ex-wife Mindy is in town. Not an auspicious start for a memorable Christmas, but if she doesn't find the real killer, Molly isn't going to be celebrating it at all...
I read the first in this series and really enjoyed it. But with the beginning of this book, I wasn't sure how the rest of the book would go. It seems there are times when Lucy is Too Stupid to Live. She hears someone outside, doesn't own a gun (stupid of her living in Texas and in the country, to boot), and decides to investigate - in the dark - armed only with a hoe. Then she trips and gets hit over the head, knocking her out. Did I mention she was wearing only pajamas and a robe? In winter? And was out for two hours? When she wakes, she's not even cold. My family's from Texas, and it gets chilly in the middle of the night there, though not frigid. Then, she doesn't even call the sheriff because she 'knows he won't do anything.' Say what? I don't care if he hates her. She was knocked out on her own land. The sheriff needs to investigate.
Why is this man sheriff anyway? He doesn't know his job, and when he arrests someone, it's for his convenience, not because they're guilty. Why isn't anyone running against him? Why isn't he removed from his position? I rarely hate the 'evil nemesis' enough to want to see them done in, but I sure hope in the next book he's the victim; having someone this detestable and worthless in the book just nearly ruins it.
Now that I'm done with my rant - for the rest of the book, I thought the mystery was fine, and there were a few red herrings strewn about, which is always a nice thing. While it didn't seem that Krystal had done anything to get herself murdered, the fact is that she was, and Lucy is trying to figure out who not only killed her, but committed arson to hide the crime. Obviously, the horrible sheriff isn't going to do anything and would rather send an innocent woman to prison, but at least Lucy has help from her friend Quinn, who has a few ideas of her own.
I do like Lucy's parents, and would hope to see more of them in future books. Her dad indulges her, and her mom's a softy, although she doesn't want anyone to know that. Lucy's lucky to have them. While there aren't a lot of descriptions of the farm nor the surrounding countryside, we may forgive that because there was plenty of action in this story, with everything occurring at the same time.
When the ending comes and the murderer is revealed, it's a bit of a surprise, but there are clues leading up to it, though as I mentioned before, the red herrings move things in other directions. When everything is said and done, aside from Sheriff Do-Nothing, the book was very good and I will read the next in the series. Recommended.
The next morning, she goes to pick up two goats from her friend Peter, and while there, they see smoke in the distance. When they go to see what's happening, a home is on fire. Peter, a volunteer fireman, tells Lucy to call 911 -- and runs inside to see if anyone is home. He comes out with a young woman, and then once again with a black puppy. The woman is Krystal, a waitress for her friend Quinn, and it appears she was dead when the fire started.
When people are questioned about who wanted Krystal dead, the first person thought of is Lucy's friend Molly, who had an argument with her about Molly's daughter Brittney. Now Molly is in jail for murder, Lucy's trying to keep her goats penned, her parents have come for Christmas, and she finds out her boyfriend, local veterinarian Tobias's ex-wife Mindy is in town. Not an auspicious start for a memorable Christmas, but if she doesn't find the real killer, Molly isn't going to be celebrating it at all...
I read the first in this series and really enjoyed it. But with the beginning of this book, I wasn't sure how the rest of the book would go. It seems there are times when Lucy is Too Stupid to Live. She hears someone outside, doesn't own a gun (stupid of her living in Texas and in the country, to boot), and decides to investigate - in the dark - armed only with a hoe. Then she trips and gets hit over the head, knocking her out. Did I mention she was wearing only pajamas and a robe? In winter? And was out for two hours? When she wakes, she's not even cold. My family's from Texas, and it gets chilly in the middle of the night there, though not frigid. Then, she doesn't even call the sheriff because she 'knows he won't do anything.' Say what? I don't care if he hates her. She was knocked out on her own land. The sheriff needs to investigate.
Why is this man sheriff anyway? He doesn't know his job, and when he arrests someone, it's for his convenience, not because they're guilty. Why isn't anyone running against him? Why isn't he removed from his position? I rarely hate the 'evil nemesis' enough to want to see them done in, but I sure hope in the next book he's the victim; having someone this detestable and worthless in the book just nearly ruins it.
Now that I'm done with my rant - for the rest of the book, I thought the mystery was fine, and there were a few red herrings strewn about, which is always a nice thing. While it didn't seem that Krystal had done anything to get herself murdered, the fact is that she was, and Lucy is trying to figure out who not only killed her, but committed arson to hide the crime. Obviously, the horrible sheriff isn't going to do anything and would rather send an innocent woman to prison, but at least Lucy has help from her friend Quinn, who has a few ideas of her own.
I do like Lucy's parents, and would hope to see more of them in future books. Her dad indulges her, and her mom's a softy, although she doesn't want anyone to know that. Lucy's lucky to have them. While there aren't a lot of descriptions of the farm nor the surrounding countryside, we may forgive that because there was plenty of action in this story, with everything occurring at the same time.
When the ending comes and the murderer is revealed, it's a bit of a surprise, but there are clues leading up to it, though as I mentioned before, the red herrings move things in other directions. When everything is said and done, aside from Sheriff Do-Nothing, the book was very good and I will read the next in the series. Recommended.
January 4, 2023
In this second book in the Dewberry Farm mystery, a woman dies under suspicious circumstances. This book can be read as a standalone.
‹›‹›‹›‹›
Lucy former investigative reporter now owns Dewberry farm in Buttercup, Texas. Her closest friend Quinn is the proprietor of the Blue Onion cafe.
Lucy is on her way to pick up goats from Peter Swenson’s organic farm when they smell smoke.
When they head to investigate they discover a young woman named Krystal Jenkins who works as a waitress at Quinn’s cafe. But Peter noticed Krystal was already cold before they got to her which suggests the fire didn’t kill her. Lucy later learns Krystal’s house was set on fire with gasoline ⛽️
Sheriff Rooster Kocurek and his team are called in to investigate.
Earlier Molly Kramer and Krystal had a run-in at the Blue Onion the other day. Molly told Krystal to keep away from her daughter Brittany.
Brittany and Krystal had met working together at the Blue Onion; Krystal had brought her to Word of the Lord one Sunday, and she and the pastor’s son, Bryce Matheson had been seeing each other ever since.
Later when Lucy meets up with Quinn at her booth during the Buttercup Christmas Market
According to Quinn, two days earlier Krystal’s uncle called and said he wanted to get a couple of coins looked at.
Apparently, history has it that there’s a bag of coins 🪙 buried somewhere in Buttercup. A general had given his trusted friend, Lieutenant Morgana bag of Confederate gold to hide when he knew he might get caught. His Lieutenant Morgan was heading to Mexico when got ambushed by Indians.
Though he escaped long enough before he was captured. Morgan buried the gold in Dewberry Creek and marked a tree so he could find it again. He escaped six months later, but when he came back the gold was gone.
The night before Lucy heard someone digging in her backyard and when she went to investigate she was knocked in the head with a blunt object.
Could the interlopers have been searching for gold? Not to mention the holes Lucy also found in Krystal’s around Krystal’s house 🏡like someone’s been digging.
According to an anonymous tip to the sheriff’s office, Molly poisoned Krystal with friendship bread,
While the police are investigating they find a half-burned recipe card that belongs to Molly in Krystal’s house. Also, they found a half-eaten loaf of poppy seed bread in what was left of the refrigerator.
Turns out Krystal was poisoned by Molly’s friendship bread 🍞. Was it by one of Molly’s goodies? But Molly’ insists she had no hand in Krystal’s death. Lucy’s left with no choice but to help clear her friends name.
Meanwhile Ben O’Neill a Houston hobby rancher is running against Mayor Niederberger, the current mayor of Buttercup. He’s planning to make the town a tourist destination.
A cozy mystery laced with history and mouthwatering dishes. Recommend
‹›‹›‹›‹›
Lucy former investigative reporter now owns Dewberry farm in Buttercup, Texas. Her closest friend Quinn is the proprietor of the Blue Onion cafe.
Lucy is on her way to pick up goats from Peter Swenson’s organic farm when they smell smoke.
When they head to investigate they discover a young woman named Krystal Jenkins who works as a waitress at Quinn’s cafe. But Peter noticed Krystal was already cold before they got to her which suggests the fire didn’t kill her. Lucy later learns Krystal’s house was set on fire with gasoline ⛽️
Sheriff Rooster Kocurek and his team are called in to investigate.
Earlier Molly Kramer and Krystal had a run-in at the Blue Onion the other day. Molly told Krystal to keep away from her daughter Brittany.
Brittany and Krystal had met working together at the Blue Onion; Krystal had brought her to Word of the Lord one Sunday, and she and the pastor’s son, Bryce Matheson had been seeing each other ever since.
Later when Lucy meets up with Quinn at her booth during the Buttercup Christmas Market
According to Quinn, two days earlier Krystal’s uncle called and said he wanted to get a couple of coins looked at.
Apparently, history has it that there’s a bag of coins 🪙 buried somewhere in Buttercup. A general had given his trusted friend, Lieutenant Morgana bag of Confederate gold to hide when he knew he might get caught. His Lieutenant Morgan was heading to Mexico when got ambushed by Indians.
Though he escaped long enough before he was captured. Morgan buried the gold in Dewberry Creek and marked a tree so he could find it again. He escaped six months later, but when he came back the gold was gone.
The night before Lucy heard someone digging in her backyard and when she went to investigate she was knocked in the head with a blunt object.
Could the interlopers have been searching for gold? Not to mention the holes Lucy also found in Krystal’s around Krystal’s house 🏡like someone’s been digging.
According to an anonymous tip to the sheriff’s office, Molly poisoned Krystal with friendship bread,
While the police are investigating they find a half-burned recipe card that belongs to Molly in Krystal’s house. Also, they found a half-eaten loaf of poppy seed bread in what was left of the refrigerator.
Turns out Krystal was poisoned by Molly’s friendship bread 🍞. Was it by one of Molly’s goodies? But Molly’ insists she had no hand in Krystal’s death. Lucy’s left with no choice but to help clear her friends name.
Meanwhile Ben O’Neill a Houston hobby rancher is running against Mayor Niederberger, the current mayor of Buttercup. He’s planning to make the town a tourist destination.
A cozy mystery laced with history and mouthwatering dishes. Recommend
December 27, 2017
The second book in this series takes place around six months later than the first (Killer Jam) and has the town of Buttercup and its residents anticipating a joyous Christmas season. It doesn't start out so joyous when Lucy Resnick discovers an intruder on her property one night and gets hit in the head when she goes to confront the person for digging up her peach trees.
Then when her good friend Molly is accused of poisoning a young girl named Kristen who worked for Quinn at her shop, Lucy is determined to find out who the killer is so Molly won't have to spend Christmas in jail. Of course Sheriff Rooster Kocurek wants no part of Lucy's opinions or even facts so she's got to work extra hard to clear her friend. Add to the murder and intruder mix that her parents are in town for Christmas (this is not really a bad thing, she loves having them stay with her), the fact that Tobias Brandt's ex-wife is in town causing Lucy to feel threatened, and you pretty much don't have the makings of a typical, festive small town Christmas that is full of joy and good cheer.
I loved returning to Buttercup during Christmas. The Christmas market was fun and raising money for a local woman's home repairs. It was pretty hilarious when Lucy's newly acquired goats ran into town and one of them started to climb a tree. At least she had Tobias and Peter to help coax the silly goat down from the tree.
I had a sneaking suspicion about the killer but as always didn't know the reason behind it. There was also a little side mystery that was cleared up as well. The reveal was really exciting and it led to an awesome and heart-warming end to this installment in the series. Our book club discussion of this book on Facebook should be a fun discussion. I can't wait to continue the series!
Then when her good friend Molly is accused of poisoning a young girl named Kristen who worked for Quinn at her shop, Lucy is determined to find out who the killer is so Molly won't have to spend Christmas in jail. Of course Sheriff Rooster Kocurek wants no part of Lucy's opinions or even facts so she's got to work extra hard to clear her friend. Add to the murder and intruder mix that her parents are in town for Christmas (this is not really a bad thing, she loves having them stay with her), the fact that Tobias Brandt's ex-wife is in town causing Lucy to feel threatened, and you pretty much don't have the makings of a typical, festive small town Christmas that is full of joy and good cheer.
I loved returning to Buttercup during Christmas. The Christmas market was fun and raising money for a local woman's home repairs. It was pretty hilarious when Lucy's newly acquired goats ran into town and one of them started to climb a tree. At least she had Tobias and Peter to help coax the silly goat down from the tree.
I had a sneaking suspicion about the killer but as always didn't know the reason behind it. There was also a little side mystery that was cleared up as well. The reveal was really exciting and it led to an awesome and heart-warming end to this installment in the series. Our book club discussion of this book on Facebook should be a fun discussion. I can't wait to continue the series!
September 21, 2022
Fatal Frost by Karen MacInerney
I really enjoyed this book! Book #2 in the Dewberry Farm Mystery series has our main character, Lucy Resnick, settling into her life living on the farm that once belonged to her grandmother. Lucy has just acquired 2 new residents for Dewberry Farm, Hotlips and Gidget. They are escape artist goats. While picking up her goats from fellow farmer, Peter Swenson they notice a burning plastic smell in the air and then see smoke coming from the property next to Peter’s organic farm. After rushing over to see if they can help, and Peter is on the volunteer fire department, they discover the body of a young woman in the burning home. However, it is apparent that she was dead before the arson fire was ignited. Lucy’s close friend, Molly, had a public argument with the deceased and is quickly arrested by the lazy sheriff. Lucy knows Molly is innocent and having been an investigative reporter must figure out who murdered Krystal Jenkin’s before Molly is locked up for life.
This series has a wonderful cast of characters. The close bonds of friendship Lucy has already developed is really heartwarming. Lucy’s farm animals are so fun and mischievous and the local veterinarian is a hottie! I am ready to jump into the next book in the series.
I really enjoyed this book! Book #2 in the Dewberry Farm Mystery series has our main character, Lucy Resnick, settling into her life living on the farm that once belonged to her grandmother. Lucy has just acquired 2 new residents for Dewberry Farm, Hotlips and Gidget. They are escape artist goats. While picking up her goats from fellow farmer, Peter Swenson they notice a burning plastic smell in the air and then see smoke coming from the property next to Peter’s organic farm. After rushing over to see if they can help, and Peter is on the volunteer fire department, they discover the body of a young woman in the burning home. However, it is apparent that she was dead before the arson fire was ignited. Lucy’s close friend, Molly, had a public argument with the deceased and is quickly arrested by the lazy sheriff. Lucy knows Molly is innocent and having been an investigative reporter must figure out who murdered Krystal Jenkin’s before Molly is locked up for life.
This series has a wonderful cast of characters. The close bonds of friendship Lucy has already developed is really heartwarming. Lucy’s farm animals are so fun and mischievous and the local veterinarian is a hottie! I am ready to jump into the next book in the series.
September 16, 2017
I just finished Fatal Frost, Karen MacInerney's second Dewberry Farm Mystery, and it was just as charmingly told as the the first book in the series, Killer Jam. It's Christmas in Buttercup, Texas and Lucy's doing well at the farm - her relationship with handsome veterinarian Tobias is progressing nicely, she's the proud owner of two new goats, her cow Blossom is expecting, and she's working on a variety of handmade Christmas gifts. All is right with the world until Krystal, a young waitress at the Blue Onion is found murdered by Lucy, someone starts writing and mailing poisoned pen letters, Tobias' beautiful ex-wife arrives in town looking for weekend property, and the new church in town starts picketing the Christmas market! Add lost Confederate gold, Molly's missing teenage daughter, and a second murder that follows the first and you've got the story of Buttercup's Fatal Frost. Fast-paced and kept me guessing - loved it! :-)
March 20, 2018
No place like home.
A beautifully written series. Lucy has bought her Grandmother's farm and exchanged her investigative reporters hat for gardening gloves, a menagerie of animals and a rebuilding of the family farm.
Lucy also has the unlucky habit of finding dead bodies. The little town of Buttercup is shocked at the discovery of the body of a young woman after her home burns. It seems though that she was poisoned before the fire and Lucy's best friend is going to be accused of the murder.
The towns bungling sheriff refused to investigate the murder and Lucy and her friends go into action.
A very strong and we'll developed plot with several mysteries to solve. A great group of characters with eclectic personalities give the story a fun and interesting appeal.
A beautifully written series. Lucy has bought her Grandmother's farm and exchanged her investigative reporters hat for gardening gloves, a menagerie of animals and a rebuilding of the family farm.
Lucy also has the unlucky habit of finding dead bodies. The little town of Buttercup is shocked at the discovery of the body of a young woman after her home burns. It seems though that she was poisoned before the fire and Lucy's best friend is going to be accused of the murder.
The towns bungling sheriff refused to investigate the murder and Lucy and her friends go into action.
A very strong and we'll developed plot with several mysteries to solve. A great group of characters with eclectic personalities give the story a fun and interesting appeal.
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