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Buttered and Scrambled With Murder
Murder & Maple syrup...
Josie and Tony are back for another savory mystery!
This time, with a stack of pancakes on the side.
Since having their relationship outed—much to Josie's dislike—the couple has been summoned by Mama Rizzo to the family's breakfast diner for a Sunday morning brunch.
A mouthwatering spread is expected from Josie's culinary-genius parents, but serve up a rebellious older brother, a furry bacon thief, and a wealthy businessman bludgeoned to death, makes for a very unappetizing event.
Josie soon learns that before the wealthy stranger's demise, his plans of rebuilding the town into a flashy money-grabbing hotspot would've affected the town's hardworking locals. Which leaves quite the list of suspects of who may have wanted him dead.
Unfortunately, Josie's parents are on the police's radar for the crime.
Backed by an army of Rizzo brothers, she, Tony, and best friend Brad set out to uncover the truth in the beachy town of JewelCove, where a killer lurks deeper in the shadows than french toast sticks do in a bowl of maple syrup…
Josie and Tony are back for another savory mystery!
This time, with a stack of pancakes on the side.
Since having their relationship outed—much to Josie's dislike—the couple has been summoned by Mama Rizzo to the family's breakfast diner for a Sunday morning brunch.
A mouthwatering spread is expected from Josie's culinary-genius parents, but serve up a rebellious older brother, a furry bacon thief, and a wealthy businessman bludgeoned to death, makes for a very unappetizing event.
Josie soon learns that before the wealthy stranger's demise, his plans of rebuilding the town into a flashy money-grabbing hotspot would've affected the town's hardworking locals. Which leaves quite the list of suspects of who may have wanted him dead.
Unfortunately, Josie's parents are on the police's radar for the crime.
Backed by an army of Rizzo brothers, she, Tony, and best friend Brad set out to uncover the truth in the beachy town of JewelCove, where a killer lurks deeper in the shadows than french toast sticks do in a bowl of maple syrup…
168 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 10, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
June 11, 2016
What an incredible story.....I was on the edge of my seat the entire time.
As Josie and Tony continue to move forward with their relationship, the cat is out of the bag and now Josie's parents are ready to welcome Tony into the family.
During a family breakfast at the Rizzo's restaurant located in JewelCove, Gina Rizzo is acting the part of mama bear and isn't to happy with the ladies her son is taking up with.
Hoping to avoid an embarrassing situation, Josie and Tony go for a walk, one that could possibly change their life forever.
When the couple is approached by a man screaming and out of sorts, they have no idea that they will become embroiled in a murder investigation that involves their loved ones.
We all know Josie fights to defend her family and this situation is no different.
Josie and Tony need to come out of this unharmed, after all, Josie has her dream meeting coming up and she definitely wants to pursue her romance with Tony.
Once again the author has done a superb job of creating such a believable story. Her writing is so clear and concise that I had to remind myself that I wasn't really in the story.
The ending left another cliffhanger and I can't wait to see how the rest of this story unfolds.
If you aren't a fan of this series yet, you will be after reading the first book.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my fair and honest review.
As Josie and Tony continue to move forward with their relationship, the cat is out of the bag and now Josie's parents are ready to welcome Tony into the family.
During a family breakfast at the Rizzo's restaurant located in JewelCove, Gina Rizzo is acting the part of mama bear and isn't to happy with the ladies her son is taking up with.
Hoping to avoid an embarrassing situation, Josie and Tony go for a walk, one that could possibly change their life forever.
When the couple is approached by a man screaming and out of sorts, they have no idea that they will become embroiled in a murder investigation that involves their loved ones.
We all know Josie fights to defend her family and this situation is no different.
Josie and Tony need to come out of this unharmed, after all, Josie has her dream meeting coming up and she definitely wants to pursue her romance with Tony.
Once again the author has done a superb job of creating such a believable story. Her writing is so clear and concise that I had to remind myself that I wasn't really in the story.
The ending left another cliffhanger and I can't wait to see how the rest of this story unfolds.
If you aren't a fan of this series yet, you will be after reading the first book.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my fair and honest review.
September 19, 2018
Cute, short cozy mystery. Humor. I’ve enjoyed the entire series, thus far, and look forward to book five.
June 12, 2016
Buttered and Scrambled With Murder
A Josie Rizzo Cozy Mystery, Book #4
J R Pearson
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Murder & Maple syrup...
Josie and Tony are back for another savory mystery!
This time, with a stack of pancakes on the side.
Since having their relationship outed—much to Josie's dislike—the couple has been summoned by Mama Rizzo to the family's breakfast diner for a Sunday morning brunch.
A mouthwatering spread is expected from Josie's culinary-genius parents, but serve up a rebellious older brother, a furry bacon thief, and a wealthy businessman bludgeoned to death, makes for a very unappetizing event.
Josie soon learns that before the wealthy stranger's demise, his plans of rebuilding the town into a flashy money-grabbing hotspot would've affected the town's hardworking locals. Which leaves quite the list of suspects of who may have wanted him dead.
Unfortunately, Josie's parents are on the police's radar for the crime.
Backed by an army of Rizzo brothers, she, Tony, and best friend Brad set out to uncover the truth in the beachy town of Jewel Cove, where a killer lurks deeper in the shadows than french toast sticks do in a bowl of maple syrup… (Goodreads)
Review:
This book is another great installment in the Josie Rizzo Mystery series. Josie and Tony get to spend time with Josie’s crazy family, who now know that they are dating. Josie knows that her mother will be hearing wedding bells and the crying of a grandchild and will not hesitate to ask the hard question: When’s the wedding?
Josie is more worried about her mother’s questions than she is finding a murderer. Unfortunately she has to deal with both.
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Josie and Tony make a cute couple and their relationship is progressing nicely. Josie’s family is a hoot and any of the scenes with them are very funny. They are loud, opinionated and busybodies but they are also a caring loving family.
The mystery is carried on well throughout the book. There are some twists and turns that make it difficult to figure out the killer. There has been a mystery at the end of the other three books and this book gives a little more information concerning that mystery, but it is not resolved yet. I cannot wait to read the next book to see what will happen next. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and there were times I felt I was right there, watching all the action take place.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well plotted cozy mystery. I actually recommend that you read all of the books in the series, they are all quite entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I honestly enjoyed this book a lot.
A Josie Rizzo Cozy Mystery, Book #4
J R Pearson
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Murder & Maple syrup...
Josie and Tony are back for another savory mystery!
This time, with a stack of pancakes on the side.
Since having their relationship outed—much to Josie's dislike—the couple has been summoned by Mama Rizzo to the family's breakfast diner for a Sunday morning brunch.
A mouthwatering spread is expected from Josie's culinary-genius parents, but serve up a rebellious older brother, a furry bacon thief, and a wealthy businessman bludgeoned to death, makes for a very unappetizing event.
Josie soon learns that before the wealthy stranger's demise, his plans of rebuilding the town into a flashy money-grabbing hotspot would've affected the town's hardworking locals. Which leaves quite the list of suspects of who may have wanted him dead.
Unfortunately, Josie's parents are on the police's radar for the crime.
Backed by an army of Rizzo brothers, she, Tony, and best friend Brad set out to uncover the truth in the beachy town of Jewel Cove, where a killer lurks deeper in the shadows than french toast sticks do in a bowl of maple syrup… (Goodreads)
Review:
This book is another great installment in the Josie Rizzo Mystery series. Josie and Tony get to spend time with Josie’s crazy family, who now know that they are dating. Josie knows that her mother will be hearing wedding bells and the crying of a grandchild and will not hesitate to ask the hard question: When’s the wedding?
Josie is more worried about her mother’s questions than she is finding a murderer. Unfortunately she has to deal with both.
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Josie and Tony make a cute couple and their relationship is progressing nicely. Josie’s family is a hoot and any of the scenes with them are very funny. They are loud, opinionated and busybodies but they are also a caring loving family.
The mystery is carried on well throughout the book. There are some twists and turns that make it difficult to figure out the killer. There has been a mystery at the end of the other three books and this book gives a little more information concerning that mystery, but it is not resolved yet. I cannot wait to read the next book to see what will happen next. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and there were times I felt I was right there, watching all the action take place.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well plotted cozy mystery. I actually recommend that you read all of the books in the series, they are all quite entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I honestly enjoyed this book a lot.
June 16, 2016
When I start reading this series I just can't stop till I am finished. As a reader you are gripped on the edge of your seat with all the adventure. This book will also have you laughing out loud as well as biting your lip at times with anticipation of what is coming next.
Buttered and Scrambled with Murder is book four in the Josie Rizzo Cozy Mystery series. Josie and her boyfriend Tony and best friend Brad are off to Jewel Cove for brunch at her parents house. Let's just say Josie is a little nervous about what is to come with her family. The unending questions, when are you getting married, when are you having kids...YIKES! But she is in luck when one of her brothers brings home a very unique fiancé??? Josie and Tony think they have dodged a bullet when they leave the house for a walk. No such luck, they hear a scream and go investigate only to find wealthy real estate, money grubbing John Burke dead. They end up finding some interesting things about Burke and their small town.
With a whole town of suspects including Josie's father she and Tony as well as Brad and her brothers have a lot of work ahead of them to find the real killer before an innocent person is jailed.
Buttered and Scrambled with Murder is book four in the Josie Rizzo Cozy Mystery series. Josie and her boyfriend Tony and best friend Brad are off to Jewel Cove for brunch at her parents house. Let's just say Josie is a little nervous about what is to come with her family. The unending questions, when are you getting married, when are you having kids...YIKES! But she is in luck when one of her brothers brings home a very unique fiancé??? Josie and Tony think they have dodged a bullet when they leave the house for a walk. No such luck, they hear a scream and go investigate only to find wealthy real estate, money grubbing John Burke dead. They end up finding some interesting things about Burke and their small town.
With a whole town of suspects including Josie's father she and Tony as well as Brad and her brothers have a lot of work ahead of them to find the real killer before an innocent person is jailed.
June 22, 2017
Great series
Would like to know when the next one will be coming out. I like all the characters in this series.
Would like to know when the next one will be coming out. I like all the characters in this series.
June 12, 2016
Where do I begin with book 4. Let's see...Josie, Tony and Brad went back to Jewel Cove to visit the Rizzo's and of course Richie had to mess things up with his latest love interest. On a walk Tony and Josie stumble upon someone that needs help and of course when they try to see what the problem is, it turns into a murder mystery. Everything was fine of course until Mr. Rizzo is a suspect. Now Josie in the gang have to solve this murder so that her parents will be off the hook.
I would say the best part of this book was how the author described the next level of Tony and Josie's relationship. I mean it was perfect and done with such class and that would get a 10 stars from me if I was allowed too. But just when you think the book is over, two things happen. First there is an epilogue that you are not excepting to have you sitting on the edge of your bed and two there are some awesome recipes in the back. I have been waiting a long time for book 4 and it was well worth the wait. I will not give it away but all I can say is, your mouth will be hanging open when you read the Epilogue. This book with have you laughing and realizing how much you want to be apart of the Rizzo family. I mean Josie mom by far is a "helicopter" mom and she will have you cracking up. She say what she wants and she has not problem speaking her mind.
Excellent, J R Pearson and continue to keep up the great work.
I would say the best part of this book was how the author described the next level of Tony and Josie's relationship. I mean it was perfect and done with such class and that would get a 10 stars from me if I was allowed too. But just when you think the book is over, two things happen. First there is an epilogue that you are not excepting to have you sitting on the edge of your bed and two there are some awesome recipes in the back. I have been waiting a long time for book 4 and it was well worth the wait. I will not give it away but all I can say is, your mouth will be hanging open when you read the Epilogue. This book with have you laughing and realizing how much you want to be apart of the Rizzo family. I mean Josie mom by far is a "helicopter" mom and she will have you cracking up. She say what she wants and she has not problem speaking her mind.
Excellent, J R Pearson and continue to keep up the great work.
June 12, 2016
Buttered and Scrambled With Murder is the fourth book in J R Pearson’s Josie Rizzo Cozy Mystery series. It is a delightful read filled with wit and humor. This book is a fast-paced read, the mystery is well plotted, and the characters are well developed and relatable. I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves a good, clean mystery.
Josie Rizzo and her boyfriend, Tony Santino, are “summoned” to Sunday morning brunch at the family’s diner in in JewelCove by Gina Rizzo, Josie’s mom, and Josie’s best friend, Brad, tags along for the great food and drama he’s sure will happen. When Richie, one of Josie’s four brothers, arrives with a leather-clad, lip-pierced biker and introduces her as his fiancée, Veronica, the fireworks erupt. Hoping to avoid some of the drama, Josie and Tony decide to go for a walk but a man screaming that someone is dead interrupts their quiet. The murder victim turns out to be the wealthy real estate mongrel, John Burke, who was trying to buy out local businesses and turn the area into a tourist trap. Josie’s dad is one of the suspects and Josie, Tony, Brad, and the Rizzo brothers team up to find the murderer.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Josie Rizzo and her boyfriend, Tony Santino, are “summoned” to Sunday morning brunch at the family’s diner in in JewelCove by Gina Rizzo, Josie’s mom, and Josie’s best friend, Brad, tags along for the great food and drama he’s sure will happen. When Richie, one of Josie’s four brothers, arrives with a leather-clad, lip-pierced biker and introduces her as his fiancée, Veronica, the fireworks erupt. Hoping to avoid some of the drama, Josie and Tony decide to go for a walk but a man screaming that someone is dead interrupts their quiet. The murder victim turns out to be the wealthy real estate mongrel, John Burke, who was trying to buy out local businesses and turn the area into a tourist trap. Josie’s dad is one of the suspects and Josie, Tony, Brad, and the Rizzo brothers team up to find the murderer.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 12, 2016
A delightful and fast reading cozy murder mystery with mouthwatering food descriptions and recipes. This is the fourth book in the series and each one is better than the previous book. Josie and her boyfriend, Tony are having brunch with her large and nosy family when a disagreement within the family sends them out on a walk that ends with them stumbling into a murder that has just happened. The murdered man had many enemies in town, including Josie's parents, so she and Tony go to work to find the real killer. The characters are fun and the murder is complex with an unexpected ending. Josie's food blog provides an interesting background. We also have a compelling secondary story line concerning Tony's supposedly dead father. This book shifts it to a whole new level. This a must read for cozy and food lovers alike.
I received this book from the author. This is my honest opinion and fair review.
I received this book from the author. This is my honest opinion and fair review.
June 12, 2016
Oh these are not the Josie Rizzo mysteries they are the Josie and Tony mysteries with a side of Brad for more comedic relief ....lol
I have loved each story greatly, this latest one is the very best so far.
Josie and Tony are awesome they both love food, cooking and eating it , I love how they cook surprise treats for each other it's sweet.
Josie is infectious and bubbly just like her Mom. Josies parents are both foodies to they own their own place in Josie and Tony's home town of Jewel Cove, when a murder happens and Josies dad is the number one suspect it's up to Josie and Tony with the help of Brad and Josies brothers to find the murderer and boy look out when Josies Mom finds out what they are up to.
A great cozy with wonderful characters, great food and lots of fun
I have loved each story greatly, this latest one is the very best so far.
Josie and Tony are awesome they both love food, cooking and eating it , I love how they cook surprise treats for each other it's sweet.
Josie is infectious and bubbly just like her Mom. Josies parents are both foodies to they own their own place in Josie and Tony's home town of Jewel Cove, when a murder happens and Josies dad is the number one suspect it's up to Josie and Tony with the help of Brad and Josies brothers to find the murderer and boy look out when Josies Mom finds out what they are up to.
A great cozy with wonderful characters, great food and lots of fun
June 17, 2016
Another AMAZING Story! This is the 4th book in the Josie Rizzo Cozy Mystery series.
I don't want to ruin the story for you but Josie and Tony were summoned to the Family Sunday dinner by her mom. While they are out taking a walk a man comes screaming that their is a dead body. John Burke, the real estate guy that is buying up all the local businesses is dead and Josie's dad is one of the suspects. So of course Josie, Tony, Josie's brothers and Brad team up to find the real killer.
A fast paced, fun loving cozy mystery. I loved every minute of it! I really love the adorable cover too!
I don't want to ruin the story for you but Josie and Tony were summoned to the Family Sunday dinner by her mom. While they are out taking a walk a man comes screaming that their is a dead body. John Burke, the real estate guy that is buying up all the local businesses is dead and Josie's dad is one of the suspects. So of course Josie, Tony, Josie's brothers and Brad team up to find the real killer.
A fast paced, fun loving cozy mystery. I loved every minute of it! I really love the adorable cover too!
June 14, 2016
Another great book in this series. Josie and Tony are so good at solving "who done it."
December 31, 2016
http://openbooksociety.com/article/bu...
Buttered and Scrambled With Murder
Series: Josie Rizzo Cozy Mystery, #4
By: J R Pearson
ASIN: B01GWJFNG8
Author’s Website: http://JosieRizzoCozyMysteries.weebly...
Review brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Synopsis:
Murder & Maple syrup…
Josie and Tony are back for another savory mystery!
This time, with a stack of pancakes on the side.
Since having their relationship outed—much to Josie’s dislike—the couple has been summoned by Mama Rizzo to the family’s breakfast diner for a Sunday morning brunch.
A mouthwatering spread is expected from Josie’s culinary-genius parents, but serve up a rebellious older brother, a furry bacon thief, and a wealthy businessman bludgeoned to death, makes for a very unappetizing event.
Josie soon learns that before the wealthy stranger’s demise, his plans of rebuilding the town into a flashy money-grabbing hotspot would’ve affected the town’s hardworking locals. Which leaves quite the list of suspects of who may have wanted him dead.
Unfortunately, Josie’s parents are on the police’s radar for the crime.
Backed by an army of Rizzo brothers, she, Tony, and best friend Brad set out to uncover the truth in the beachy town of JewelCove, where a killer lurks deeper in the shadows than french toast sticks do in a bowl of maple syrup…
Review:
As an introduction to the writing of J R Pearson, it was an enjoyable start. I might have picked up on some nuances, etc. if I had started at the first book in the series, but frankly, it really did not matter. The author provided enough of a background so that I was not lost or felt as if I was missing anything. However, the story was enticing enough that I am now going back and reading the series from the beginning.
Josie (a food blogger for Good Eatin’ For the Curvy Soul) and Tony were keeping their relationship on the down lo when Josie’s younger brother, Reese, confessed to outing her and Tony’s new relationship to their mom. So now….Josie and Tony were summoned for a mid-morning brunch at the family’s breakfast diner, Sunny Side Up, by Gina (mom to Josie and Reese). This of course was not ideal for Josie as she knew her mother well and figured instead of a nice, leisurely brunch, it would be more of an interrogation….loaded with wedding-bell questions. And who needed that pressure on a new relationship? I laughed out loud at the dialogue between Tony and Josie:
“They were bound to find out about us eventually.” Tony shrugged. Oh, how Josie longed to gain his nonchalant composure.
“Yeah, but I planned on that happening when scientists eventually discovered another planet for humans to live on, and me securing a spot on the next shuttle.”
So while in JewelCove to introduce Tony as the boyfriend (as opposed to just a friend from 10 years ago that the whole family knew) to her parents, a murder occurs!
Tony has not been in town for the last 10 years, following the death of his mother. Though he did remember Josie’s parents fondly:
“But David and Gina Rizzo were the pure essences of what loving parents should be-bat crap crazy, all which he was robbed of when his mother has been murdered by his father.”
In order to clear Josie’s parents from the suspect list, she takes it upon herself to play amateur sleuth. She engages her brothers, Brad (a best buddy of Josie’s) and Tony to unearth the killer.
I also loved the dialogue between dog owner Jennie, with her new Dalmatian puppy, and Josie; discussing setting up a play date for their two dogs (Petey and Jade). This seems to add such normality to the dynamics of the cast of characters☺. And bringing in adorable dogs to any story is always a positive as far as I am concerned.
The mystery does get solved (sorry – not going to give any spoilers!) and the relationship of Josie and Tony plugs along at a nice pace. This book is an easy to read in one sitting, cozy mystery with a pleasant cast of characters and lots of chuckle worthy moments. I look forward to going back and reading the first three books in the series. Then I will most likely re-read this title again to get the full flavour of the series.
Buttered and Scrambled With Murder
Series: Josie Rizzo Cozy Mystery, #4
By: J R Pearson
ASIN: B01GWJFNG8
Author’s Website: http://JosieRizzoCozyMysteries.weebly...
Review brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Synopsis:
Murder & Maple syrup…
Josie and Tony are back for another savory mystery!
This time, with a stack of pancakes on the side.
Since having their relationship outed—much to Josie’s dislike—the couple has been summoned by Mama Rizzo to the family’s breakfast diner for a Sunday morning brunch.
A mouthwatering spread is expected from Josie’s culinary-genius parents, but serve up a rebellious older brother, a furry bacon thief, and a wealthy businessman bludgeoned to death, makes for a very unappetizing event.
Josie soon learns that before the wealthy stranger’s demise, his plans of rebuilding the town into a flashy money-grabbing hotspot would’ve affected the town’s hardworking locals. Which leaves quite the list of suspects of who may have wanted him dead.
Unfortunately, Josie’s parents are on the police’s radar for the crime.
Backed by an army of Rizzo brothers, she, Tony, and best friend Brad set out to uncover the truth in the beachy town of JewelCove, where a killer lurks deeper in the shadows than french toast sticks do in a bowl of maple syrup…
Review:
As an introduction to the writing of J R Pearson, it was an enjoyable start. I might have picked up on some nuances, etc. if I had started at the first book in the series, but frankly, it really did not matter. The author provided enough of a background so that I was not lost or felt as if I was missing anything. However, the story was enticing enough that I am now going back and reading the series from the beginning.
Josie (a food blogger for Good Eatin’ For the Curvy Soul) and Tony were keeping their relationship on the down lo when Josie’s younger brother, Reese, confessed to outing her and Tony’s new relationship to their mom. So now….Josie and Tony were summoned for a mid-morning brunch at the family’s breakfast diner, Sunny Side Up, by Gina (mom to Josie and Reese). This of course was not ideal for Josie as she knew her mother well and figured instead of a nice, leisurely brunch, it would be more of an interrogation….loaded with wedding-bell questions. And who needed that pressure on a new relationship? I laughed out loud at the dialogue between Tony and Josie:
“They were bound to find out about us eventually.” Tony shrugged. Oh, how Josie longed to gain his nonchalant composure.
“Yeah, but I planned on that happening when scientists eventually discovered another planet for humans to live on, and me securing a spot on the next shuttle.”
So while in JewelCove to introduce Tony as the boyfriend (as opposed to just a friend from 10 years ago that the whole family knew) to her parents, a murder occurs!
Tony has not been in town for the last 10 years, following the death of his mother. Though he did remember Josie’s parents fondly:
“But David and Gina Rizzo were the pure essences of what loving parents should be-bat crap crazy, all which he was robbed of when his mother has been murdered by his father.”
In order to clear Josie’s parents from the suspect list, she takes it upon herself to play amateur sleuth. She engages her brothers, Brad (a best buddy of Josie’s) and Tony to unearth the killer.
I also loved the dialogue between dog owner Jennie, with her new Dalmatian puppy, and Josie; discussing setting up a play date for their two dogs (Petey and Jade). This seems to add such normality to the dynamics of the cast of characters☺. And bringing in adorable dogs to any story is always a positive as far as I am concerned.
The mystery does get solved (sorry – not going to give any spoilers!) and the relationship of Josie and Tony plugs along at a nice pace. This book is an easy to read in one sitting, cozy mystery with a pleasant cast of characters and lots of chuckle worthy moments. I look forward to going back and reading the first three books in the series. Then I will most likely re-read this title again to get the full flavour of the series.
June 11, 2016
Food blogger and food lover Josie Rizzo has decided to take her boyfriend Tony back to visit their hometown. They plan to admit to her huge family that they are now officially boyfriend and girlfriend. Josie didn’t really want to let the folks know about it yet and neither did Tony, but one of her brothers has a big mouth. Big mouths are good for eating lots of food but, unfortunately, it’s also good for blabbing secrets. So Josie, Tony, and their friend Brad go for a day visit to see what’s going on back home.
Well, lots of things are going on. Josie’s family diner, Sunny Side Up, is doing great. The “breakfast all day” establishment is filled with customers and Josie’s parents, David and Gina, are thrilled. But they aren’t so thrilled with their kids. Gina wants a grandchild and soon so Josie knows that with Tony being her official ”boyfriend” Gina will be pushing them to the alter. Then one of Josie’s brothers comes into the diner introducing everyone to his fiancé. A woman that no one has ever met. Gina is not happy with this recent turn of events.
Oh, and there’s one other thing. A very wealthy man wants to not only buy Sunny Side Up but every other business in the area. He plans to demolish all the businesses and then turn the area into something “high class.” This man is also very intimidating and is threatening people to get his own way.
When Josie, Tony, and Brad somehow get away from her family and go for a walk they hear a man calling for help. They go to him and he explains that he’s a driver and his boss was murdered. All of them go to the dead body as the driver explains that his boss and the boss’s son were having an argument in the car. The father and son then got out. When they didn’t return the driver looked for them and ended up finding the body.
Who is this man? Well, none other than the person who wants to buy up all the businesses. Everyone assumes that the son must have killed his father until the police investigate and determine that the son is innocent. Who could the murderer be? The police have a number one suspect and that suspect is Josie’s father, David! Josie is not going to let her dad go to jail for something he couldn’t and didn’t do so she, Tony, Brad, and the full Rizzo clan set out to find who really done the deed.
“Buttered and Scrambled With Murder” by J R Pearson is the fourth book is this cute cozy series. Readers can’t help but love the Rizzo family with their love of cooking. Mom Gina is a great character because she kind of reminds me of all moms everywhere. All she wants is her children to be married with their own kids and of course to be well-fed. She wonders why this one little request is so hard for her kids to give her.
All of Josie’s brothers have a wonderful relationship with each other and of course with Josie. Dad David is doing is best to survive his family.
And of course there’s Josie and Tony. They’re in love but are taking things slowly, a little too slowly for mom Gina but the couple knows that eventually they will be together.
“Buttered and Scrambled With Murder” has lots of returning characters including Josie’s dog Petey and Tony’s dog Jade. The storyline is good and it has a bit of a twisty ending which makes things interesting. I enjoyed reading about Josie’s newest adventure and looking forward to the next one.
Visit Josie, Tony, and the Rizzo family. Eat some pancakes, kid around with the brothers, let momma Gina spoil you, and have a good time. You’re always guaranteed a good time with this cute series.
Well, lots of things are going on. Josie’s family diner, Sunny Side Up, is doing great. The “breakfast all day” establishment is filled with customers and Josie’s parents, David and Gina, are thrilled. But they aren’t so thrilled with their kids. Gina wants a grandchild and soon so Josie knows that with Tony being her official ”boyfriend” Gina will be pushing them to the alter. Then one of Josie’s brothers comes into the diner introducing everyone to his fiancé. A woman that no one has ever met. Gina is not happy with this recent turn of events.
Oh, and there’s one other thing. A very wealthy man wants to not only buy Sunny Side Up but every other business in the area. He plans to demolish all the businesses and then turn the area into something “high class.” This man is also very intimidating and is threatening people to get his own way.
When Josie, Tony, and Brad somehow get away from her family and go for a walk they hear a man calling for help. They go to him and he explains that he’s a driver and his boss was murdered. All of them go to the dead body as the driver explains that his boss and the boss’s son were having an argument in the car. The father and son then got out. When they didn’t return the driver looked for them and ended up finding the body.
Who is this man? Well, none other than the person who wants to buy up all the businesses. Everyone assumes that the son must have killed his father until the police investigate and determine that the son is innocent. Who could the murderer be? The police have a number one suspect and that suspect is Josie’s father, David! Josie is not going to let her dad go to jail for something he couldn’t and didn’t do so she, Tony, Brad, and the full Rizzo clan set out to find who really done the deed.
“Buttered and Scrambled With Murder” by J R Pearson is the fourth book is this cute cozy series. Readers can’t help but love the Rizzo family with their love of cooking. Mom Gina is a great character because she kind of reminds me of all moms everywhere. All she wants is her children to be married with their own kids and of course to be well-fed. She wonders why this one little request is so hard for her kids to give her.
All of Josie’s brothers have a wonderful relationship with each other and of course with Josie. Dad David is doing is best to survive his family.
And of course there’s Josie and Tony. They’re in love but are taking things slowly, a little too slowly for mom Gina but the couple knows that eventually they will be together.
“Buttered and Scrambled With Murder” has lots of returning characters including Josie’s dog Petey and Tony’s dog Jade. The storyline is good and it has a bit of a twisty ending which makes things interesting. I enjoyed reading about Josie’s newest adventure and looking forward to the next one.
Visit Josie, Tony, and the Rizzo family. Eat some pancakes, kid around with the brothers, let momma Gina spoil you, and have a good time. You’re always guaranteed a good time with this cute series.
June 25, 2016
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As an introduction to the writing of J R Pearson, it was an enjoyable start. I might have picked up on some nuances, etc. if I had started at the first book in the series, but frankly, it really did not matter. The author provided enough of a background so that I was not lost or felt as if I was missing anything. However, the story was enticing enough that I am now going back and reading the series from the beginning.
Josie (a food blogger for Good Eatin’ For the Curvy Soul) and Tony were keeping their relationship on the down lo when Josie’s younger brother, Reese, confessed to outing her and Tony’s new relationship to their mom. So now….Josie and Tony were summoned for a mid-morning brunch at the family’s breakfast diner, Sunny Side Up, by Gina (mom to Josie and Reese). This of course was not ideal for Josie as she knew her mother well and figured instead of a nice, leisurely brunch, it would be more of an interrogation….loaded with wedding-bell questions. And who needed that pressure on a new relationship? I laughed out loud at the dialogue between Tony and Josie:
“They were bound to find out about us eventually.” Tony shrugged. Oh, how Josie longed to gain his nonchalant composure.
“Yeah, but I planned on that happening when scientists eventually discovered another planet for humans to live on, and me securing a spot on the next shuttle.”
So while in JewelCove to introduce Tony as the boyfriend (as opposed to just a friend from 10 years ago that the whole family knew) to her parents, a murder occurs!
Tony has not been in town for the last 10 years, following the death of his mother. Though he did remember Josie’s parents fondly:
“But David and Gina Rizzo were the pure essences of what loving parents should be-bat crap crazy, all which he was robbed of when his mother has been murdered by his father.”
In order to clear Josie’s parents from the suspect list, she takes it upon herself to play amateur sleuth. She engages her brothers, Brad (a best buddy of Josie’s) and Tony to unearth the killer.
I also loved the dialogue between dog owner Jennie, with her new Dalmatian puppy, and Josie; discussing setting up a play date for their two dogs (Petey and Jade). This seems to add such normality to the dynamics of the cast of characters☺. And bringing in adorable dogs to any story is always a positive as far as I am concerned.
The mystery does get solved (sorry – not going to give any spoilers!) and the relationship of Josie and Tony plugs along at a nice pace. This book is an easy to read in one sitting, cozy mystery with a pleasant cast of characters and lots of chuckle worthy moments. I look forward to going back and reading the first three books in the series. Then I will most likely re-read this title again to get the full flavour of the series.
As an introduction to the writing of J R Pearson, it was an enjoyable start. I might have picked up on some nuances, etc. if I had started at the first book in the series, but frankly, it really did not matter. The author provided enough of a background so that I was not lost or felt as if I was missing anything. However, the story was enticing enough that I am now going back and reading the series from the beginning.
Josie (a food blogger for Good Eatin’ For the Curvy Soul) and Tony were keeping their relationship on the down lo when Josie’s younger brother, Reese, confessed to outing her and Tony’s new relationship to their mom. So now….Josie and Tony were summoned for a mid-morning brunch at the family’s breakfast diner, Sunny Side Up, by Gina (mom to Josie and Reese). This of course was not ideal for Josie as she knew her mother well and figured instead of a nice, leisurely brunch, it would be more of an interrogation….loaded with wedding-bell questions. And who needed that pressure on a new relationship? I laughed out loud at the dialogue between Tony and Josie:
“They were bound to find out about us eventually.” Tony shrugged. Oh, how Josie longed to gain his nonchalant composure.
“Yeah, but I planned on that happening when scientists eventually discovered another planet for humans to live on, and me securing a spot on the next shuttle.”
So while in JewelCove to introduce Tony as the boyfriend (as opposed to just a friend from 10 years ago that the whole family knew) to her parents, a murder occurs!
Tony has not been in town for the last 10 years, following the death of his mother. Though he did remember Josie’s parents fondly:
“But David and Gina Rizzo were the pure essences of what loving parents should be-bat crap crazy, all which he was robbed of when his mother has been murdered by his father.”
In order to clear Josie’s parents from the suspect list, she takes it upon herself to play amateur sleuth. She engages her brothers, Brad (a best buddy of Josie’s) and Tony to unearth the killer.
I also loved the dialogue between dog owner Jennie, with her new Dalmatian puppy, and Josie; discussing setting up a play date for their two dogs (Petey and Jade). This seems to add such normality to the dynamics of the cast of characters☺. And bringing in adorable dogs to any story is always a positive as far as I am concerned.
The mystery does get solved (sorry – not going to give any spoilers!) and the relationship of Josie and Tony plugs along at a nice pace. This book is an easy to read in one sitting, cozy mystery with a pleasant cast of characters and lots of chuckle worthy moments. I look forward to going back and reading the first three books in the series. Then I will most likely re-read this title again to get the full flavour of the series.
September 23, 2016
We finally get to enter Josie's parents' restaurant, and that scene sure made me want brunch. When a man who tried to buy them out is found murdered nearby, they're quickly brought in as suspects, so Josie and Tony are on the case...again, very motivated to solve it in time. Brad and the brothers help, too, but we don't see any more of Tony's dad...well, till the end. That's quite a cliffhanger there.
As I said for #3, this is a nice, quick read, being novella-length. I think that length suits this series quite well. Again, the editing is better than in 1&2, but there are still issues: "use to peek" (used?, loc 86), "having being" (having been?, loc 96), "use to twitch" (used?, loc 290).
As I said for #3, this is a nice, quick read, being novella-length. I think that length suits this series quite well. Again, the editing is better than in 1&2, but there are still issues: "use to peek" (used?, loc 86), "having being" (having been?, loc 96), "use to twitch" (used?, loc 290).
June 11, 2016
Fantastic! It was so worth the wait for this only now I am dying for the next book to come out! Josie, Tony and Brad take a road trip to have breakfast with the Rizzo family at their restaurant so you know it will not be quiet and peaceful. Although Josie is expecting the worst since they found out she is seeing Tony, she is far from the center or attention. first it's her brother and his choice in women, then it's a murder. They just can't escape drama no matter where they go and Josie is compelled to get involved since her father is a main suspect and has no alibi. The food is so wonderful I feel like I could smell it when I was reading. There are just so many action packed scenes in this book I felt like I was on a wild ride. Josie always seems so sunny and happy go lucky but things really seem to be going her way. She has a great meeting with the food magazine people and her love life really is improving. Things just seem to be perfect once the murder is solved. The murder and investigation was plenty for one book but you will just have to read it for yourself and there is a dramatic cliffhanger ending. Be prepared! This was absolutely the best book so far!!!
June 11, 2016
I just finished J R Pearson's 4th Josie Rizzo book Buttered and Scrambled With Murder.
And Again Ms. Pearson did not disappoint. In fact I think this might be my favorite, so far. Gina Rizzo is back and embarrassing her kids as always, this time in public and it is video worthy.
A real estate mogul is trying to buy up Jewelcove and turn it into a tourist trap. When he ends up dead and there really aren't many leads the police grasp on to Josie's dad as a suspect even though it is weak at best. With Josie and Tony investigating and with the help of Josie's computer genius brothers the killer and motive is soon discovered.
As always the characters are wonderfully written and with each book they become more defined.
This time, at least for me the ending was so powerful that while I knew what was probably coming I could not have put down my kindle and moved off my chair if the house was in flames.
I can still see those few final paragraphs in my mind's eye.
Thank You J R Pearson for another fabulous read and I highly recommend this book.
And Again Ms. Pearson did not disappoint. In fact I think this might be my favorite, so far. Gina Rizzo is back and embarrassing her kids as always, this time in public and it is video worthy.
A real estate mogul is trying to buy up Jewelcove and turn it into a tourist trap. When he ends up dead and there really aren't many leads the police grasp on to Josie's dad as a suspect even though it is weak at best. With Josie and Tony investigating and with the help of Josie's computer genius brothers the killer and motive is soon discovered.
As always the characters are wonderfully written and with each book they become more defined.
This time, at least for me the ending was so powerful that while I knew what was probably coming I could not have put down my kindle and moved off my chair if the house was in flames.
I can still see those few final paragraphs in my mind's eye.
Thank You J R Pearson for another fabulous read and I highly recommend this book.
June 11, 2016
Murder, mystery, romance and recipes! What more could a cozy mystery reader want? J R Pearson delivers in book #4 of the Josie Rizzo series!
A hilarious family brunch, a secret fiancee all dressed in leather, a romantic walk that leads to a corpse, a search for the truth and a desperate attempt to keep Josie's dad out of jail and stay alive to catch the murderer makes for an exciting read!
I enjoyed the Rizzo crew (minus the twins) in one place during the surprising and laugh out loud funny brunch. It was great to see the relationship between Josie and Tony deepen...sigh! Brad was a hero and model, almost at the same time and having the 4- legged crime solvers along - Petey and Jade was fun.
Just when the mystery was solved and the universe had righted itself, a shocking event occurs...I wasn't expecting it at all! Another chapter has begun in Josie and Tony's life and I'll be there to see what happens next.
If you like cozy mysteries, romance, adventure, are a foodie and love recipes then this series is for you!
A hilarious family brunch, a secret fiancee all dressed in leather, a romantic walk that leads to a corpse, a search for the truth and a desperate attempt to keep Josie's dad out of jail and stay alive to catch the murderer makes for an exciting read!
I enjoyed the Rizzo crew (minus the twins) in one place during the surprising and laugh out loud funny brunch. It was great to see the relationship between Josie and Tony deepen...sigh! Brad was a hero and model, almost at the same time and having the 4- legged crime solvers along - Petey and Jade was fun.
Just when the mystery was solved and the universe had righted itself, a shocking event occurs...I wasn't expecting it at all! Another chapter has begun in Josie and Tony's life and I'll be there to see what happens next.
If you like cozy mysteries, romance, adventure, are a foodie and love recipes then this series is for you!
June 14, 2016
This series just keeps getting better and better. I enjoyed the first three in the series but in my opinion this is the best one in the series to date. First off, let me just say I LOVE Gina Rizzo. She is a wonderful breath of fresh air and provides a great deal of humor in this story. All of the characters keeps developing and growing with each new book. They now feel like old friends and I can't wait to see what happens next. The mystery is solid and the culprit was not someone who was on my suspect list. It was a nice twist. I like how the romance is developing between Tony and Josie as well. It is natural and not rushed. But be forewarned, there is a cliff hanger at the end of this book and it will have you coming back for the next installment.
This series is a quick enjoyable read that has wonderful characters, good writing and solid mysteries. I can't wait to see what this author has up her sleeve next for Tony and Josie.
This series is a quick enjoyable read that has wonderful characters, good writing and solid mysteries. I can't wait to see what this author has up her sleeve next for Tony and Josie.
June 20, 2016
I gave this one 5 stars because I absolutely adored this book. Josie, Tony and Brad go back to their hometown for Sunday brunch with the Rizzo family at their diner. All Hell breaks loose when Josie's lothario brother comes in with a body pierced woman declaring they were getting married! Josie and Tony escape mayhem and take a romantic interlude only to be flagged down by a limo driver screaming for help. His ruthless boss has been murdered.
Josie discovers her parents may be suspects since the deceased has tried to buy their diner from underneath them. So the 3 friends start sleuthing.
Whenever Brad is involved you know there will be OMG! moments and humor galore. Josie's family is the best! Love Mama Rizzo!
And with a surprise ending this was the best book yet.
Josie discovers her parents may be suspects since the deceased has tried to buy their diner from underneath them. So the 3 friends start sleuthing.
Whenever Brad is involved you know there will be OMG! moments and humor galore. Josie's family is the best! Love Mama Rizzo!
And with a surprise ending this was the best book yet.
October 26, 2016
I loved book 4 as much as the prior 3. I especially enjoyed how this story focused a little more on Josie's family. As the only girl in a large family of older AND younger brothers, Josie has to channel her way through their over protectiveness and her mother's wishing that Josie were in a relationship and her desire in becoming a grandma.
This book gives us some background history (and perspective) of/from Tony's father, who we find out was framed for the murder of Tony's mother. I could tell the next book or so would expand on that storyline. As always, I like how Josie and Tony's dogs are incorporated into the tale (and her cousin gets a brand new 8 week old Dalmatian puppy!!).
I read this book in a few hours and really enjoyed it. Now I have to wait for book 5 to come out!!
This book gives us some background history (and perspective) of/from Tony's father, who we find out was framed for the murder of Tony's mother. I could tell the next book or so would expand on that storyline. As always, I like how Josie and Tony's dogs are incorporated into the tale (and her cousin gets a brand new 8 week old Dalmatian puppy!!).
I read this book in a few hours and really enjoyed it. Now I have to wait for book 5 to come out!!
June 11, 2016
The best yet.....
Ms. Pearson gets better and better. Buttered and Scrambled is a fast paced mystery with enough love thrown in to make yo savor each page.
Josie and Tony are getting closer and nothing, not even a murder, can separate them.
This book is by far the best yet and has left me begging for more....a cliffhanger ending is the best when the author gives you enough to let your imagination run wild until she reveals what us going to happen. Waiting impatiently for book 5. If you haven't gotten your copy get it now and prepare not to do anything else until you have read every page.
Ms. Pearson gets better and better. Buttered and Scrambled is a fast paced mystery with enough love thrown in to make yo savor each page.
Josie and Tony are getting closer and nothing, not even a murder, can separate them.
This book is by far the best yet and has left me begging for more....a cliffhanger ending is the best when the author gives you enough to let your imagination run wild until she reveals what us going to happen. Waiting impatiently for book 5. If you haven't gotten your copy get it now and prepare not to do anything else until you have read every page.
June 12, 2016
Buttered and Scrambled With Murder by J R Pearson was another fast paced cozy mystery that hooked me from page 1 and didn't let go until I finished it.
Ms. Pearson's characters are so well developed that I always feel like I am visiting old friends when I start one of her books. Although I had a "feeling" about who the murderer might be, I wasn't sure until the reveal. Fast paced with action, laughter, Josie's interview with the magazine (perfection) and Josie and Tony moving closer (sweet) made for a very appealing read. Again, she left us with a teaser to look forward to in the next book.
Ms. Pearson's characters are so well developed that I always feel like I am visiting old friends when I start one of her books. Although I had a "feeling" about who the murderer might be, I wasn't sure until the reveal. Fast paced with action, laughter, Josie's interview with the magazine (perfection) and Josie and Tony moving closer (sweet) made for a very appealing read. Again, she left us with a teaser to look forward to in the next book.
June 13, 2016
In this 4th book of the Josie Rizzo Cozy Mystery series, Josie has to bring her new man, Tony, to a friendly family Sunday brunch in JewelCove. We all know when you bring your new guy home the first time, it is anything but friendly. As most of the family gathers in the family diner, the interrogation begins, but it's not Josie on the receiving end this time. (You'll have too read the book to see who it is!)
While the interrogation ensues, Josie and Tony take Petey out for some fresh air and before long, they are face to face with a dead body. Not what Josie needs while trying to mentally prepared for an important meeting.
Things really heat up when Tony reveals a secret
While the interrogation ensues, Josie and Tony take Petey out for some fresh air and before long, they are face to face with a dead body. Not what Josie needs while trying to mentally prepared for an important meeting.
Things really heat up when Tony reveals a secret
June 21, 2016
Another super story centring on Josie Rizzo and her wacky family, boyfriend Tony and Petey the corgi. These books are some of my favourite reads and I'm always delighted to see the next in the series. Yes, this is a series and the relationship between Josie & Tony develops further each time. With her loving and well-meaning family always ready to come to her rescue, these mystery tales offer great drama and tension, lots of humour that will put a smile on any face and the best recipes to drool over and recreate EVER!
Always ending on a cliff-hanger, you can be sure of getting drawn in and entertained.
Always ending on a cliff-hanger, you can be sure of getting drawn in and entertained.
June 11, 2016
I received this book in exchange for an honest review,but getting it free does not influence my reviews..with that said,...She did it again !! Book 4 is amazing,just like the others..I was laughing..and at times I said,wtf? (in my mind of course) and then at the end I was on the edge of my seat ! love the characters in the series and Tony is such a sexy hunk,that doesn't hurt..lol I can not wait for the next book because at the end omg... ... well you will just have to read it to find out what happened..lol....
June 15, 2016
It was fun to visit with Josie, Tony, Brad, Petey, and Jade again in the latest installment of the Josie Rizzo Cozy Mystery Series. The gang is caught up in a murder mystery and one of the prime suspects is Mr. Rizzo! My favorite part of the book was the breakfast food descriptions. Makes you want to go raid the fridge! Intriguing cliffhanger at the end. Hope you are not missing out on this popular cozy mystery series, it's so much fun! The author provided me with a complimentary ebook copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 19, 2016
Easy to solve
It/ was obvious case to solve, but I have to admit, I was not expecting the ending as I thought. I was going for the twins because of their profession and skills, plus the GPS they have on their sister. With as many brothers as she has it was kind of a given to suspect them. That many males in a family and one female to protect makes sense, but I must say the intruder was a surprise to me as I am sure it was to others. Cannot wait for the next book, how long do we have to wait?
It/ was obvious case to solve, but I have to admit, I was not expecting the ending as I thought. I was going for the twins because of their profession and skills, plus the GPS they have on their sister. With as many brothers as she has it was kind of a given to suspect them. That many males in a family and one female to protect makes sense, but I must say the intruder was a surprise to me as I am sure it was to others. Cannot wait for the next book, how long do we have to wait?
June 13, 2016
Another home run in a series that keeps getting better!
If you're a cozy lover this series is something to put on your must read list. This book focused more on Josie, Tony, and Brad working together to figure out who the murderer was rather than everyone going off on their own. Josie's family was involved as well as Greta but more in the background. Of course the relationship between Josie and Tony is deepening (yay). Can't wait for the next installment!
If you're a cozy lover this series is something to put on your must read list. This book focused more on Josie, Tony, and Brad working together to figure out who the murderer was rather than everyone going off on their own. Josie's family was involved as well as Greta but more in the background. Of course the relationship between Josie and Tony is deepening (yay). Can't wait for the next installment!
June 21, 2016
Culinary cozy
Josie Rizzo and her boyfriend Tony, long with her best friend Brad, investigate the murder of one of the most unpopular people in her hometown. They happened upon the murder scene following the screams of the driver, but left it to the local police.....until the police concentrated on her dad as a suspect. Follow the twists and turns through their investigation and smile at the family antics and the romance between Jo and Tony
Josie Rizzo and her boyfriend Tony, long with her best friend Brad, investigate the murder of one of the most unpopular people in her hometown. They happened upon the murder scene following the screams of the driver, but left it to the local police.....until the police concentrated on her dad as a suspect. Follow the twists and turns through their investigation and smile at the family antics and the romance between Jo and Tony
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