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A Greenhouse Mystery #2
Bitter Harvest
Megan Sawyer should be shouting from the barn roof. Washington Acres survived its first year, the café has become a hotspot for locals, and Winsome’s sexy Scottish veterinarian is making house calls—only not for the animals. But as summer slips into fall and Winsome prepares for its grand Oktoberfest celebration, beer isn’t the only thing brewing.
When the town’s pub owner is killed in a freak accident, Megan suspects something sinister is afoot in Winsome—but no one is listening. As nights grow longer and temperatures chill, Megan must plow through Winsome’s fixation with autumn festivities to harvest the truth—before another dead body marks the season.
When the town’s pub owner is killed in a freak accident, Megan suspects something sinister is afoot in Winsome—but no one is listening. As nights grow longer and temperatures chill, Megan must plow through Winsome’s fixation with autumn festivities to harvest the truth—before another dead body marks the season.
255 pages, Paperback
First published March 7, 2017
221 people are currently reading
984 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Tyson
24 books384 followersWendy Tyson is an author, lawyer, and former therapist whose background has inspired her thrillers and mysteries. As Liv Andersson, she writes thrillers, including Little Red House. As Wendy Tyson, she is the author of several mystery series, including the Amazon bestselling Greenhouse Mystery Series. Wendy’s short fiction has appeared in literary journals and crime anthologies, and she has written for The Big Thrill and The Thrill Begins, International Thriller Writers’ online magazines. Wendy is a member of International Thriller Writers, Mystery Writers of America, and Sisters in Crime. She and her husband live in the beautiful Green Mountains of Vermont with their sons and three dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
March 8, 2017
Dollycas’s Thoughts
This is our second visit to Winsome, Pennsylvania and we are just in time the Oktoberfest celebration. The whole town wants their farm, store, pub or restaurant to be a main sponsor for the celebration and some feathers get ruffled when the select spots go to unsuspected places. In fact, when a pub owner is killed Megan doesn’t think it was truly an accident, but would someone actually kill because they weren’t chosen? So while getting the family farm and store ready for the celebration she is also trying to pick the killer and it isn’t as easy as picking a pepper or a pumpkin.
This was a pretty complex mystery with several suspects, means, and motives.
Megan has gotten through her first year and both the café and the farm are doing very well. She has even found time to spend with a certain veterinarian. That is until she gets wrapped up in this investigation. I knew she was a strong woman in the first story but she seems much more confident now as she has settled in. Her grandmother, another strong woman reminds me a lot of my mother. Determined, respected and not afraid to speak her mind. Dr. Denver Finn was extremely busy throughout the story taking care of a sick horse and other emergencies but he was still able to carve out time for Megan. All the characters a very believable and appealing. Their dialogue rings true, including Denver’s Scottish accent.
As I said the mystery is complex, in fact there are two mysteries to solve. Ms. Tyson entangles the plots together so well, weaving them together with deception, secrets, and untruths. I enjoyed doing my best to figure it all out before Megan but the ending was a complete surprise.
This one will grab you from the start and you will have a very hard time putting down.
This is our second visit to Winsome, Pennsylvania and we are just in time the Oktoberfest celebration. The whole town wants their farm, store, pub or restaurant to be a main sponsor for the celebration and some feathers get ruffled when the select spots go to unsuspected places. In fact, when a pub owner is killed Megan doesn’t think it was truly an accident, but would someone actually kill because they weren’t chosen? So while getting the family farm and store ready for the celebration she is also trying to pick the killer and it isn’t as easy as picking a pepper or a pumpkin.
This was a pretty complex mystery with several suspects, means, and motives.
Megan has gotten through her first year and both the café and the farm are doing very well. She has even found time to spend with a certain veterinarian. That is until she gets wrapped up in this investigation. I knew she was a strong woman in the first story but she seems much more confident now as she has settled in. Her grandmother, another strong woman reminds me a lot of my mother. Determined, respected and not afraid to speak her mind. Dr. Denver Finn was extremely busy throughout the story taking care of a sick horse and other emergencies but he was still able to carve out time for Megan. All the characters a very believable and appealing. Their dialogue rings true, including Denver’s Scottish accent.
As I said the mystery is complex, in fact there are two mysteries to solve. Ms. Tyson entangles the plots together so well, weaving them together with deception, secrets, and untruths. I enjoyed doing my best to figure it all out before Megan but the ending was a complete surprise.
This one will grab you from the start and you will have a very hard time putting down.
September 6, 2018
The rural town of Winsome PA depends on tourists to book their economy. Megan Sawyer, lawyer turned organic farmer, and her Grandma Bibi, continue to operate Washington Acres farm and carfe and are becoming well known and profitable. When the town decides to have an Oktoberfest to showcase small farms and other operations, Megan applies to be a sponsor. When the committee brings in PR professional Ophelia Dilworth, she takes over the planning and the smaller operations are overlooked for a couple of larger ones, not the most popular decision. Things take a deadly turn when one of the local business owners and sponsors, is killed in a freak accident. Only Megan doesn’t think it was an accident. When the police are quick to rule out the possibility of murder, it’s up to Megan to figure out what is really happening.
Tyson’s Greenhouse mystery series showcases protagonist Megan Sawyer, a big-city lawyer turned small-town organic farmer. I like Megan, she is a kind, intelligent, and spirited woman with integrity. This book is populated with several other wonderful characters such as a smug-but-attractive PR consultant, a temperamental-but-gifted chef, a shrewd and sexy Scottish vet, and assorted townspeople, whose motives are complex and believable.
I loved the first book in the series and was anxious to return to Winsome and the characters. This book didn’t disappoint in the least. Megan’s personal life provided a nice sub-plot while leaving plenty of time for the murder investigation, which included some great twists and turns. As the relationship between Megan and Dr. Denver Finn develops, it is nice to see Megan working her way through her insecurities and doubts. There are also her interactions with her aunt that add a personal tone as she tries to find out more about her father's and mother's relationship. This is not just your easy breezy cozy, there is a bit more substance to it, that make it just a bit more enjoyable to me. I recommend this book and series to cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
Tyson’s Greenhouse mystery series showcases protagonist Megan Sawyer, a big-city lawyer turned small-town organic farmer. I like Megan, she is a kind, intelligent, and spirited woman with integrity. This book is populated with several other wonderful characters such as a smug-but-attractive PR consultant, a temperamental-but-gifted chef, a shrewd and sexy Scottish vet, and assorted townspeople, whose motives are complex and believable.
I loved the first book in the series and was anxious to return to Winsome and the characters. This book didn’t disappoint in the least. Megan’s personal life provided a nice sub-plot while leaving plenty of time for the murder investigation, which included some great twists and turns. As the relationship between Megan and Dr. Denver Finn develops, it is nice to see Megan working her way through her insecurities and doubts. There are also her interactions with her aunt that add a personal tone as she tries to find out more about her father's and mother's relationship. This is not just your easy breezy cozy, there is a bit more substance to it, that make it just a bit more enjoyable to me. I recommend this book and series to cozy mystery lovers everywhere.
October 8, 2020
A cosy detective in a cosy small town with cosy little Octoberfest murders (ok, the deaths were not cosy and there was lots of tension and drama fighting the plans of the rapacious villains whose plans triggered the murders)
Megan gets close with her vet, and makes first steps to make up with her past (and she's not the only one).
Megan gets close with her vet, and makes first steps to make up with her past (and she's not the only one).
May 14, 2017
Planning a festival and murder go hand in hand in the small town of Winsome, Pennsylvania.
Two men vied for a brewing sponsorship for the upcoming Oktoberfest. Within a short time, one was dead and the other was missing.
~~~~
It has been over a year since I read the first book: A Muddied Murder. This time I found it necessary to read a couple of chapters before I was reacquainted with everyone. Supportive Grandma Bibi hinted at matchmaking. Megan's hard-working employees, Clay and Porter, were protective as ever. Police Chief Brian King was overworked. Dimples and Heidi kicked butt, pun intended: they are goats! The faithful dogs, Gunther and Sadie, were never far from Megan: always watching. And Alvaro was still cooking at the cafe and cranky as ever.
Megan Sawyer's life was moving forward and her relationship with the local veterinarian was interlaced with family, her job and the celebration. -Gush! Can I just say how much I love Dr. Finn's Scottish brogue?- In addition, the widow had a stalker; someone watching her. But first and foremost, Bitter Harvest was a murder-mystery.
OpheliaDillweed Dilworth, the PR for Winsome's Oktoberfest, was a thorn in Megan's side. She was 29 years old, single and a flirt. She talked the talk and walked the walk when it came to her job. It appeared as though she would do anything for a successful event.
Heavy on the subjects of food and gardening, I enjoyed this cozy mystery. I didn't necessarily agree with everything Megan carried out but I had to remember her past: she was a former lawyer and a widow that loved her husband deeply. For this reason and others, I feel it is important to start with A Muddied Murder.
And, surprise(!), I was wrong as to the identity of the killer. I just wish I had Seeds of Revenge at my fingertips. I want to travel to Winsome again. *Hint, hint*, I would love to read an ARC. ;-)
Two men vied for a brewing sponsorship for the upcoming Oktoberfest. Within a short time, one was dead and the other was missing.
~~~~
It has been over a year since I read the first book: A Muddied Murder. This time I found it necessary to read a couple of chapters before I was reacquainted with everyone. Supportive Grandma Bibi hinted at matchmaking. Megan's hard-working employees, Clay and Porter, were protective as ever. Police Chief Brian King was overworked. Dimples and Heidi kicked butt, pun intended: they are goats! The faithful dogs, Gunther and Sadie, were never far from Megan: always watching. And Alvaro was still cooking at the cafe and cranky as ever.
Megan Sawyer's life was moving forward and her relationship with the local veterinarian was interlaced with family, her job and the celebration. -Gush! Can I just say how much I love Dr. Finn's Scottish brogue?- In addition, the widow had a stalker; someone watching her. But first and foremost, Bitter Harvest was a murder-mystery.
Ophelia
Heavy on the subjects of food and gardening, I enjoyed this cozy mystery. I didn't necessarily agree with everything Megan carried out but I had to remember her past: she was a former lawyer and a widow that loved her husband deeply. For this reason and others, I feel it is important to start with A Muddied Murder.
And, surprise(!), I was wrong as to the identity of the killer. I just wish I had Seeds of Revenge at my fingertips. I want to travel to Winsome again. *Hint, hint*, I would love to read an ARC. ;-)
March 2, 2017
This October is proving to be a busy one for Megan Sawyer. Not only is it harvest season on her farm, but the town of Winsome is putting on an Oktoberfest celebration, and her restaurant is one of the major sponsors. Things take a deadly turn when one of the local pub owners is killed in a freak accident. Only Megan doesn’t think it was an accident. When the police are quick to rule out the possibility of murder, it’s up to Megan to figure out what is really happening.
I loved the first book in the series and was anxious to return to Winsome and the characters. This book didn’t disappoint in the least. The characters continue to be strong, and the growth between books as well as the growth here was nice to see. The new characters were just as strong. Megan’s personal life provided a nice sub-plot while leaving plenty of time for the murder investigation, which included some great twists and turns.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
I loved the first book in the series and was anxious to return to Winsome and the characters. This book didn’t disappoint in the least. The characters continue to be strong, and the growth between books as well as the growth here was nice to see. The new characters were just as strong. Megan’s personal life provided a nice sub-plot while leaving plenty of time for the murder investigation, which included some great twists and turns.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
Read
May 4, 2017“Tyson’s first-rate second Greenhouse mystery stars big-city lawyer turned small-town organic farmer Megan Sawyer, a kind, intelligent, and spirited woman with great integrity. In short, she’s the sort of person cozy readers warm to and root for...Tyson populates the cast with a smug-but-attractive PR consultant, a temperamental-but-gifted chef, a shrewd and sexy Scottish vet, and assorted townspeople, whose motives are complex and believable. It’s a pleasure to spend time in their company.” – Publishers Weekly (starred review)
May 24, 2023
You guys gotta read this!
I know it's a lame opening for a review, but seriously... read this book if you love cozy mysteries!
I've been waiting a few years to read this series, and it's odd that I begin with book 2 (I have the first 3), but no regrets here! Wendy Tyson writes so superbly and unravels the mystery (well, mysteries) slowly, making the reader really think and anticipate the reveal. She has a gift for writing, I tell you.
Fab characters & setting; no sex or foul language. There's a potato recipe and a gardening tip at the end of the story.
I know it's a lame opening for a review, but seriously... read this book if you love cozy mysteries!
I've been waiting a few years to read this series, and it's odd that I begin with book 2 (I have the first 3), but no regrets here! Wendy Tyson writes so superbly and unravels the mystery (well, mysteries) slowly, making the reader really think and anticipate the reveal. She has a gift for writing, I tell you.
Fab characters & setting; no sex or foul language. There's a potato recipe and a gardening tip at the end of the story.
May 14, 2023
Loving this cozy mystery series!
This one was a bit more sinister and suspenseful, and I loved that about it. I’m enjoying how the cozy genre seems to make you feel like you’re living in the same small town as you read. Glad I have four books left to take me to Washington Acres cafe in Winsome!
From a logistics perspective, I love that the books are on the shorter side. Part of what intimidates me about reading the fantasy genre is that there are fifteen books that are all 1200 pages long 😂. This is much less intimidating — maybe it’ll be the first series I finish?!
This one was a bit more sinister and suspenseful, and I loved that about it. I’m enjoying how the cozy genre seems to make you feel like you’re living in the same small town as you read. Glad I have four books left to take me to Washington Acres cafe in Winsome!
From a logistics perspective, I love that the books are on the shorter side. Part of what intimidates me about reading the fantasy genre is that there are fifteen books that are all 1200 pages long 😂. This is much less intimidating — maybe it’ll be the first series I finish?!
February 10, 2017
I enjoyed this second in the Greenhouse series by Wendy Tyson.
Meghan is proud that her farm has survived a year but she is greatly disappointed in the decisions regarding the Oktoberfest celebration.
Feeling slighted that a local small farm wasn't chosen to represent the festival, Megan is even more curious when a dead body turns up.
Megan can't help but ask questions regarding the festival and this leaves a sour taste in some mouths.
This story was well written and well thought out. I enjoyed it and I am looking forward to reading more in this series I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
Meghan is proud that her farm has survived a year but she is greatly disappointed in the decisions regarding the Oktoberfest celebration.
Feeling slighted that a local small farm wasn't chosen to represent the festival, Megan is even more curious when a dead body turns up.
Megan can't help but ask questions regarding the festival and this leaves a sour taste in some mouths.
This story was well written and well thought out. I enjoyed it and I am looking forward to reading more in this series I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
February 12, 2017
This book kept me turning pages as I met some very interesting characters in Winsome PA while the plot explored Megan Sawyer and her Grandma Bibi's lives. A recipe and gardening tip are included.
The rural town of Winsome PA is close enough to major cities that tourists can make a large impact on the local economy. Holding Oktoberfest to feature local farms, shops and eateries seems like a great idea until PR professional Ophelia Dilworth takes over and changes the rules without explanation.
Megan's struggle between widowhood and the handsome Scottish Vet, Dr. Denver Finn, provides a break from the tension of murder and deceit as friends become suspects and money may be behind murder.
Not a fluffy cozy as there are 2 plots running throughout this story but it is all one issue ...or is there a second issue solely centered on Megan?
I received an ARC through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
I can hardly wait for book 3!!!
The rural town of Winsome PA is close enough to major cities that tourists can make a large impact on the local economy. Holding Oktoberfest to feature local farms, shops and eateries seems like a great idea until PR professional Ophelia Dilworth takes over and changes the rules without explanation.
Megan's struggle between widowhood and the handsome Scottish Vet, Dr. Denver Finn, provides a break from the tension of murder and deceit as friends become suspects and money may be behind murder.
Not a fluffy cozy as there are 2 plots running throughout this story but it is all one issue ...or is there a second issue solely centered on Megan?
I received an ARC through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
I can hardly wait for book 3!!!
August 14, 2017
A stunning premise filled with solid characters and a thriller-ish plot, Bitter Harvest was a wonderful sophomore book in this series!
Megan is definitely a strong main character. She knows what she feels, and she doesn't waiver. Her sleuthing is a little bit more than I typically like, but it works. I like Denver, Clover, Bibi, and the rest of the characters, also. Really the only character I didn't like was the perpetrator, who I wasn't supposed to like.
The mystery was strong, ans, as I mentioned, had a thriller feel to it. However, I feel that the ending was rushed. The big picture part of the mystery also feel into a stereotypical cozy mold, which wasn't my favorite. The setting was wonderful, and the premise of the series is to-die-for.
Overall an excellent book. I can't wait to read the next one (which I've already got an ARC of!) Highly recommend!
Megan is definitely a strong main character. She knows what she feels, and she doesn't waiver. Her sleuthing is a little bit more than I typically like, but it works. I like Denver, Clover, Bibi, and the rest of the characters, also. Really the only character I didn't like was the perpetrator, who I wasn't supposed to like.
The mystery was strong, ans, as I mentioned, had a thriller feel to it. However, I feel that the ending was rushed. The big picture part of the mystery also feel into a stereotypical cozy mold, which wasn't my favorite. The setting was wonderful, and the premise of the series is to-die-for.
Overall an excellent book. I can't wait to read the next one (which I've already got an ARC of!) Highly recommend!
August 29, 2018
This is the second book in the Greenhouse Mystery and I have enjoyed this series. Megan becomes an organic farmer after needing a change from being a big city lawyer. It's Oktoberfest time in Winsome and everyone is getting ready until people start dying. Does it have anything to do with Oktoberfest or is there something else going on. Megan is curious as to why the city council hired an outsider to organize the Oktoberfest. And who is watching Megan or is it her imagination. Several mysteries going on in one book with great characters, lots of wonderful animals and a town you wouldn't mind living in. This series comes highly recommended.
September 3, 2019
Summer crops have been harvested and sold,
frozen, canned or donated. The fields are being
turned to plant cover crops. Braids of garlic are
hung in the barn.
The fall is upon the historic town of Winsome,
Pennsylvania. The town is known for its small
family farms selling their local produce. Now
the fall crops are coming in season.
Megan Sawyer left her career as an attorney
to care for her grandmother and has set up an
organic farm and cafe.
Description is vivid making the reader feel as if
they are right there in the story with the characters
whether at the farm, the Washington Acres Farm
and Cafe or the town of Winsome.
It is time for the Winsome’s Oktoberfest which is
supposed to promote local small business. But
the year, the town has hired a professional organizer
to run the Oktoberfest and things are not exactly
going as the rules were written for the festivities.
Murder, a mysterious chair, a found knife, a burnt
out campfire, rumor of an affair, the going’s on at
the Washington Acres Farm and Cafe blended
with suspense, several mysterious plotted
happenings, adventure, a lost dog plus a touch
of romance amid humor produce an interesting
read.
Plenty of animals fill the story:
the Pygmy goats: Dimples & Heidi, the chickens,
plus dogs: a Great Dane, Sarge (a German
Shepherd ), a lost dog, in addition to the two
main dogs: Sadie with a German Shepherd face,
a greyhound body Shepherd coloring and a
golden retriever tail and Gunther, who is a Polish
Tatra Sheepdog and the farm's guard dog
This is book # 2 in the Greenhouse Mystery series.
It can be read as a stand alone. The author has
effortlessly mixed the present and the past.
A good read!!
frozen, canned or donated. The fields are being
turned to plant cover crops. Braids of garlic are
hung in the barn.
The fall is upon the historic town of Winsome,
Pennsylvania. The town is known for its small
family farms selling their local produce. Now
the fall crops are coming in season.
Megan Sawyer left her career as an attorney
to care for her grandmother and has set up an
organic farm and cafe.
Description is vivid making the reader feel as if
they are right there in the story with the characters
whether at the farm, the Washington Acres Farm
and Cafe or the town of Winsome.
It is time for the Winsome’s Oktoberfest which is
supposed to promote local small business. But
the year, the town has hired a professional organizer
to run the Oktoberfest and things are not exactly
going as the rules were written for the festivities.
Murder, a mysterious chair, a found knife, a burnt
out campfire, rumor of an affair, the going’s on at
the Washington Acres Farm and Cafe blended
with suspense, several mysterious plotted
happenings, adventure, a lost dog plus a touch
of romance amid humor produce an interesting
read.
Plenty of animals fill the story:
the Pygmy goats: Dimples & Heidi, the chickens,
plus dogs: a Great Dane, Sarge (a German
Shepherd ), a lost dog, in addition to the two
main dogs: Sadie with a German Shepherd face,
a greyhound body Shepherd coloring and a
golden retriever tail and Gunther, who is a Polish
Tatra Sheepdog and the farm's guard dog
This is book # 2 in the Greenhouse Mystery series.
It can be read as a stand alone. The author has
effortlessly mixed the present and the past.
A good read!!
March 3, 2017
Author Wendy Tyson has created a series that is absolutely wonderful in every way!
It has felt like such a long wait for this second installment in the Greenhouse Mysteries to come out. But after reading A MUDDIED MURDER, the first book in this series, a day would have felt like too long!
I was so excited when I finally got my hands on BITTER HARVEST. Once it was in my grasp, and I started reading, I couldn’t set it down! I was finally back in Winsome, PA with Megan, Bibi, Finn, Clover, King, and all the townspeople. It felt liking going home. As I write this, I’m actually sad that I had to say goodbye. (No worries though. The next book is due out this fall!)
BITTER HARVEST is a brilliantly clever book in every way. Wendy Tyson brought to us in this story, not just one mystery, but two! There is of course one heck of a whodunit murder to be solved. But there is a secondary mystery involving someone close to Megan that made this a real bushel full of mystery, and an even more exciting read. I want to say more, but I’d risk giving things away.
Ms. Tyson is an exciting voice in the cozy mystery genre, and nothing proves that better than this amazing book, or I should say, this amazing series! Fans, prepare to be thrilled. New readers, pick up A MUDDIED MURDER and BITTER HARVEST and you’ll have the fun of getting to read them back to back!
It has felt like such a long wait for this second installment in the Greenhouse Mysteries to come out. But after reading A MUDDIED MURDER, the first book in this series, a day would have felt like too long!
I was so excited when I finally got my hands on BITTER HARVEST. Once it was in my grasp, and I started reading, I couldn’t set it down! I was finally back in Winsome, PA with Megan, Bibi, Finn, Clover, King, and all the townspeople. It felt liking going home. As I write this, I’m actually sad that I had to say goodbye. (No worries though. The next book is due out this fall!)
BITTER HARVEST is a brilliantly clever book in every way. Wendy Tyson brought to us in this story, not just one mystery, but two! There is of course one heck of a whodunit murder to be solved. But there is a secondary mystery involving someone close to Megan that made this a real bushel full of mystery, and an even more exciting read. I want to say more, but I’d risk giving things away.
Ms. Tyson is an exciting voice in the cozy mystery genre, and nothing proves that better than this amazing book, or I should say, this amazing series! Fans, prepare to be thrilled. New readers, pick up A MUDDIED MURDER and BITTER HARVEST and you’ll have the fun of getting to read them back to back!
January 2, 2017
Title: Bitter Harvest
Author: Wendy Tyson
# Of Stars Given: 5
Type of book: Cozy Mystery
Began Date: forgot to write the date down End Date: 12/31/16
Before I begin I want to thank Wendy Tyson for allowing me to be an early reader of this book.
Summary:
Winsome, Pa is a quaint little town where everyone knows everyone along with their dirty laundry or so that is what we are lead to believe. This time Winsome has an outsider there to help promote Oktoberfest, to bring city folk to the small town to generate income and place Winsome on the map or does she have different intentions for this lovely town? If you read the first book A Muddied Murder you will remember Megan and Bibi where the prime suspects in a murder . This time Megan and Bibi are not suspects and there is more going on than meets they eye. Megan and Denver's friendship seems like it is moving into a different direction. Aunt Sarah (Megan's aunt) is ready to tell Megan about family secrets and her mother but Megan isn't ready to hear them for reasons only she knows. A few more characters are introduced to us as the plot thickens can any of these be the murder? Since Megan's return there has been some awful things happen in Winsome does these happenings have anything to do with Megan's return?
What I thought of the book:
As I have stated before in my reviews on any of the Wendy Tyson's books I've read and did a review on I will not be adding any spoilers or quotes from the book. To do so is a crime in itself and I as an avid reader will not ruin a book for anyone. I have been recommended several books at the people who recommend this books always tell me the plot and the outcome so if I know what is happening and how it ended why read them? Remember these are my thoughts / opinions on the book.
Megan, Bibi, Denver and Sheriff King have become quite the team. Ms. Tyson didn't disappoint us in this book. (not that she has ever disappointed us in any book) There are more plot twists and curve balls in this book. As we continue to read her series Greenhouse Mysteries you become part of this quaint little town in PA. I for one cannot get enough of Megan, Bibi, Denver and the citizens of Winsome. Things are looking up for Megan! Is the friendship between Megan and Denver going to survive or has it been doomed along? Is Bibi ever going to tell Megan the family secrets or will her Aunt Sarah be the only one to let them out of the closet? Is Sheriff King ever going to listen to Megan without brushing her off? And will this quaint town survive or become a safe place again? Biggest question of all; Why are you not reading this series or book?
Ending:
What is in store for Megan and the quaint town of Winsome? I am jonesing for part 3 of this beautiful quaint town, deadly plots, Megan and Denver's story and Bibi of course. Ms. Tyson has me hooked on all of her books. A question for the author ; when is book 3 coming out?
Author: Wendy Tyson
# Of Stars Given: 5
Type of book: Cozy Mystery
Began Date: forgot to write the date down End Date: 12/31/16
Before I begin I want to thank Wendy Tyson for allowing me to be an early reader of this book.
Summary:
Winsome, Pa is a quaint little town where everyone knows everyone along with their dirty laundry or so that is what we are lead to believe. This time Winsome has an outsider there to help promote Oktoberfest, to bring city folk to the small town to generate income and place Winsome on the map or does she have different intentions for this lovely town? If you read the first book A Muddied Murder you will remember Megan and Bibi where the prime suspects in a murder . This time Megan and Bibi are not suspects and there is more going on than meets they eye. Megan and Denver's friendship seems like it is moving into a different direction. Aunt Sarah (Megan's aunt) is ready to tell Megan about family secrets and her mother but Megan isn't ready to hear them for reasons only she knows. A few more characters are introduced to us as the plot thickens can any of these be the murder? Since Megan's return there has been some awful things happen in Winsome does these happenings have anything to do with Megan's return?
What I thought of the book:
As I have stated before in my reviews on any of the Wendy Tyson's books I've read and did a review on I will not be adding any spoilers or quotes from the book. To do so is a crime in itself and I as an avid reader will not ruin a book for anyone. I have been recommended several books at the people who recommend this books always tell me the plot and the outcome so if I know what is happening and how it ended why read them? Remember these are my thoughts / opinions on the book.
Megan, Bibi, Denver and Sheriff King have become quite the team. Ms. Tyson didn't disappoint us in this book. (not that she has ever disappointed us in any book) There are more plot twists and curve balls in this book. As we continue to read her series Greenhouse Mysteries you become part of this quaint little town in PA. I for one cannot get enough of Megan, Bibi, Denver and the citizens of Winsome. Things are looking up for Megan! Is the friendship between Megan and Denver going to survive or has it been doomed along? Is Bibi ever going to tell Megan the family secrets or will her Aunt Sarah be the only one to let them out of the closet? Is Sheriff King ever going to listen to Megan without brushing her off? And will this quaint town survive or become a safe place again? Biggest question of all; Why are you not reading this series or book?
Ending:
What is in store for Megan and the quaint town of Winsome? I am jonesing for part 3 of this beautiful quaint town, deadly plots, Megan and Denver's story and Bibi of course. Ms. Tyson has me hooked on all of her books. A question for the author ; when is book 3 coming out?
March 7, 2017
Ms. Tyson has found a great setting for her books — the town of Winsome. The folks are friendly (well, most of them). The food sounds amazing (between Alvaro’s dishes at the cafe, the harvests going on at the farm, and even the simple picnics Megan shares with Denver, I’m hungry just thinking about it). And then there’s our heroine, Megan. She’s hardworking, down-to-earth, maybe a little flawed, and just downright likable.
It’s the kind of place that I love to read about. And perfect for that small town mystery.
Washington Acres hopes to be a sponsor of Oktoberfest, and at the very least will be participating in the food events. In fact, things are getting pretty heated around town regarding Oktoberfest and it’s sponsors, including the Breakfast Club regulars at the cafe. Soon after, one of the Oktoberfest vendors turns up dead. Is it an accident, or something more? And if it is murder, who in Winsome could have done it? Megan not only finds herself in the middle of this latest town mystery, but she’s got a few personal mysteries to contend with as well.
Once again, Ms. Tyson pulled me in on the first page and I was hooked until the end. I am looking forward to my next outing with Winsome.
For my full review, please visit NetGalley for providing me for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It’s the kind of place that I love to read about. And perfect for that small town mystery.
Washington Acres hopes to be a sponsor of Oktoberfest, and at the very least will be participating in the food events. In fact, things are getting pretty heated around town regarding Oktoberfest and it’s sponsors, including the Breakfast Club regulars at the cafe. Soon after, one of the Oktoberfest vendors turns up dead. Is it an accident, or something more? And if it is murder, who in Winsome could have done it? Megan not only finds herself in the middle of this latest town mystery, but she’s got a few personal mysteries to contend with as well.
Once again, Ms. Tyson pulled me in on the first page and I was hooked until the end. I am looking forward to my next outing with Winsome.
For my full review, please visit NetGalley for providing me for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2017
In Bitter Harvest, readers are transported back again to Washington Acres and its owner former lawyer turned organic farmer Megan Sawyer. Its been six months since we last saw Megan and the town of Winsome. Six months since a murder mystery was solved in the same farm that Megan has toiled and made successful. Now the town of Winsome is celebrating its first Oktoberfest and unfortunately a body has been found in the solar farm which places a pall in the town's celebration. Now as Megan tries to navigate her own personal life, she can't help but get involve in trying to solve this case as well. Can Winsome have another murderer in town?
This is the second book in Wendy Tyson's A Greenhouse Mystery series and its still holding my interest like the first book. Ms. Tyson's relatable main character, the town of Winsome and the people living there plus the ever informative organic farming details embedded in the book makes Bitter Harvest a page turner. The intricate plot plus the reveal of who the culprit is makes this a definite must read. You can't really guess whodunit!
*ARC provided thru NetGalley*
This is the second book in Wendy Tyson's A Greenhouse Mystery series and its still holding my interest like the first book. Ms. Tyson's relatable main character, the town of Winsome and the people living there plus the ever informative organic farming details embedded in the book makes Bitter Harvest a page turner. The intricate plot plus the reveal of who the culprit is makes this a definite must read. You can't really guess whodunit!
*ARC provided thru NetGalley*
March 4, 2017
I love growing my own vegetables and making good food with them so I was thrilled when I discovered Wendy Tyson’s Greenhouse Mystery Series. Her second book is an great little cozy with all the right ingredients! I really enjoyed reading and learning more about Megan’s organic farm and café and the mystery had a few interesting twists and turns in it that kept me interested to the end. I’m looking forward to the next installment! 4 stars
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy and the opportunity to review this book.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy and the opportunity to review this book.
March 6, 2017
Ms. Tyson does it again! I loved the first book in the series, A Muddied Murder, and this book is easily as good. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, well developed characters and plot you will enjoy this series.
April 16, 2017
★★★★☆
March 10, 2017
Cozy mystery series frequently have themes--a tea shop, scrapbooking, dogs, etc. The best of these appeal to readers outside this narrow interest, perhaps even widening the reader’s horizons. The Greenhouse Mystery Series created by Wendy Tyson is a perfect example. Honestly, neither the title of the series or of the book I just read, Bitter Harvest, holds a particular attraction for me. I’ve done my fair share of mucking about in a large vegetable garden and have raised an assortment of farm animals. I am also a fan of organic vegetables. But, READ about them? In a mystery? Turns out the answer is a resounding double yes!
Bitter Harvest is a page turner as former Chicago lawyer Megan Sawyer returns to her roots in Winsome, Pennsylvania, to try to piece together a living from an organic farm, a café, and whatever else comes her way to make her farm a viable enterprise. The plot has multiple threads, but they all seem to center around Winsome’s first Oktoberfest. Don’t get too comfortable with the idea of small town friendliness, because a heated argument erupts at the café and Megan discovers evidence of a stalker looking down on her property--all in the first chapter. From there events move quickly as Megan’s grandmother discovers one of the town’s brewers is dead; no one is sure if it was an accident or murder. In Winsome, business and personal relationships swirl around like dust devils, never quite settling down.
The writing in Bitter Harvest is excellent. The setting varies from small town to farm and further afield as Megan tries to discover who is behind the crimes occurring in Winsome and what the motivation could possibly be. Megan is a war widow starting life again, but she still has to deal with a complicated past as she tries to understand why her mother left their family when she was eight years old. The characters are interesting, believable, and likable. The romantic attraction in the story is a handsome Scottish vet whose skills are invaluable in several crisis situations.
Wendy Tyson does a wonderful job of bringing the reader into Megan’s life. If you read the first book in the series, A Muddied Water, you get subtle reminders of events that occurred in that book. If you are jumping into the series with Bitter Harvest, you are quickly brought up to date without feeling like you just got a history lesson. I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to the next one in the series, Seeds of Revenge, with projected publication in fall of 2017.
I would like to extend my thanks to netgalley.com and to Henery Press for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Bitter Harvest is a page turner as former Chicago lawyer Megan Sawyer returns to her roots in Winsome, Pennsylvania, to try to piece together a living from an organic farm, a café, and whatever else comes her way to make her farm a viable enterprise. The plot has multiple threads, but they all seem to center around Winsome’s first Oktoberfest. Don’t get too comfortable with the idea of small town friendliness, because a heated argument erupts at the café and Megan discovers evidence of a stalker looking down on her property--all in the first chapter. From there events move quickly as Megan’s grandmother discovers one of the town’s brewers is dead; no one is sure if it was an accident or murder. In Winsome, business and personal relationships swirl around like dust devils, never quite settling down.
The writing in Bitter Harvest is excellent. The setting varies from small town to farm and further afield as Megan tries to discover who is behind the crimes occurring in Winsome and what the motivation could possibly be. Megan is a war widow starting life again, but she still has to deal with a complicated past as she tries to understand why her mother left their family when she was eight years old. The characters are interesting, believable, and likable. The romantic attraction in the story is a handsome Scottish vet whose skills are invaluable in several crisis situations.
Wendy Tyson does a wonderful job of bringing the reader into Megan’s life. If you read the first book in the series, A Muddied Water, you get subtle reminders of events that occurred in that book. If you are jumping into the series with Bitter Harvest, you are quickly brought up to date without feeling like you just got a history lesson. I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to the next one in the series, Seeds of Revenge, with projected publication in fall of 2017.
I would like to extend my thanks to netgalley.com and to Henery Press for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 15, 2020
4.5 stars
It felt so good to get back into this much loved series. I love this spunky leading lady and her dashing soon to be veterinarian boyfriend Denver as they investigate the murder of one of the locals. This is one of those plots that really keeps you on your toes. Everyone's a suspect and it's hard to think any one of these quirky and interesting characters could be a murderer.
I love how single-minded Megan Sawyer gets trying to find a killer threatening her friends. This setting is beautifully written and really draws you into this fun and whimsical cozy mystery.
We start off with Megan being dissed by the town committee when selecting the farm to feature at the local Oktoberfest festivities. It should have been a local small business who won the contract but the committee had gone off their own directives and picked a business that didn't actually meet the qualifications and the committee's original intent. After this fallout we were off to the races with a story never stopped until the killer was revealed. What a great roller coaster ride! 💛
If you want to read a great cozy mystery, definitely check this one out! You won't be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I want to thank NetGalley, the author and the publisher for allowing me to read this title.
It felt so good to get back into this much loved series. I love this spunky leading lady and her dashing soon to be veterinarian boyfriend Denver as they investigate the murder of one of the locals. This is one of those plots that really keeps you on your toes. Everyone's a suspect and it's hard to think any one of these quirky and interesting characters could be a murderer.
I love how single-minded Megan Sawyer gets trying to find a killer threatening her friends. This setting is beautifully written and really draws you into this fun and whimsical cozy mystery.
We start off with Megan being dissed by the town committee when selecting the farm to feature at the local Oktoberfest festivities. It should have been a local small business who won the contract but the committee had gone off their own directives and picked a business that didn't actually meet the qualifications and the committee's original intent. After this fallout we were off to the races with a story never stopped until the killer was revealed. What a great roller coaster ride! 💛
If you want to read a great cozy mystery, definitely check this one out! You won't be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I want to thank NetGalley, the author and the publisher for allowing me to read this title.
November 28, 2017
Bitter Harvest is the second book in the Greenhouse Mystery series, and it takes place several months after the first story. I really like the characters in this series and how they interact with each other. The main character, Megan, a former lawyer turned farm-to-fork entrepreneur, is well-drawn and nuanced. In this story, the small Pennsylvania town of Winsome is having a week-long Oktoberfest for the first time, and tensions are high as local businesses vie for official sponsorship. Then a body of one of the businessman is found dead of a supposed accident at a local solar farm. Megan thinks murder not accident, especially when a rival of the businessman goes missing, and begins to investigate. My main problem with this series is that I don't think any of these characters can do all the work that gets done--a cafe with one chef, one hostess, and a part-time octogenarian cook can run the cafe and cater multiple events--and let their boss, Megan, run around solving murders. But that's a small point. It's a clever and pretty realistic mystery, and I look forward to the next book in the series.
October 14, 2017
The problems that Megan suffered in Book One seemed to well and truly over, Clay and his sister Clover are the right hand pair and the new chef (along with Bonnie) is working well at the cafe. Megan also has another assistant (an Army Vet with PTSD who is settling in nicely!) At the cafe it has become the place to go and have meetings or just generally shoot the breeze with friends, one of the groups meeting are arranging the inaugural Oktoberfest (and Megan is hoping that Washington Acres will be picked as one of the sponsors which will boost their sales - but things seem to start going wrong and Megan (with help from friends and family) needs to sort it all out again.
September 14, 2017
Review to come soon.
Quick thoughts:
Love the cover. Nice progress being made with the characters. Winsome sounds like a terrific place to live.... except for all the murder. ;)
The descriptions of Oktoberfest and hay rides, etc really made me feel like I was there!
Quick thoughts:
Love the cover. Nice progress being made with the characters. Winsome sounds like a terrific place to live.... except for all the murder. ;)
The descriptions of Oktoberfest and hay rides, etc really made me feel like I was there!
March 16, 2017
I really enjoyed this book, the series is well written with great characters, location and mystery. As well as a great and believable mystery I love the farm and cafe, the animals and the character development. There are stories with in stories and depth and intelligence, my only wish is that Megan is allowed some happiness!!!!!!!!
March 12, 2017
Bitter Harvest - Sweet Read!
Wendy Tyson gives us just the right mix of action, edge, & emotion! I had a hard time putting this down!
Wendy Tyson gives us just the right mix of action, edge, & emotion! I had a hard time putting this down!
March 8, 2017
More like 3.5 stars. The part of the book I loved most was unrelated to the mystery. It had to do with a decision Megan's mother and her father's aunt made together, without consulting the eight year old Megan, apparently also unthinking of her plight. I loved what the adult Megan had to say about that. Go Megan! It's one of the things that bugged me in the first book as well, so it was nice to see Megan stand up for her younger self. But that's only a tiny part.
I was glad to figure out that the characters have grown on me this time around. I liked Bibi, who was a lot less annoying. I also didn't mind Denver, who hasn't shed his Scottish (I guess) brogue. He wasn't in the book much. I never had any problems with Megan, and she's quite good in this one too. I like that she acknowledges her mistake and tries to make things better when she was called out on something she did that resulted in an undesirable consequences. She doesn't break any laws, and she's suitably reliant on police when the situation calls for it. The police isn't bad either, just overstretched. Oh, and the mystery was fine too. I didn't guess the particulars, which is actually very rare for me.
All in all, it's a good series. I will continue reading it. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
I was glad to figure out that the characters have grown on me this time around. I liked Bibi, who was a lot less annoying. I also didn't mind Denver, who hasn't shed his Scottish (I guess) brogue. He wasn't in the book much. I never had any problems with Megan, and she's quite good in this one too. I like that she acknowledges her mistake and tries to make things better when she was called out on something she did that resulted in an undesirable consequences. She doesn't break any laws, and she's suitably reliant on police when the situation calls for it. The police isn't bad either, just overstretched. Oh, and the mystery was fine too. I didn't guess the particulars, which is actually very rare for me.
All in all, it's a good series. I will continue reading it. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
March 8, 2017
This is the second in the series of Wendy Tyson's greenhouse series and the mysteries of Megan's background is till unfolding as one plot. A lot of suspense and secrets involved in this one.
The main plot of the book is that it's October and the town of Winsome is holding an Octoberfest. There is major contention in that most of the townsfolk are not happy with the farm picked to be the major sponsor for the event. The farm picked gets a lot of free publicity. Seeing as this is an event that is supposed to be helping out the little farmers and the biggest farmer becomes the sponsor. The whole town is seeing red.
Not only that, several people on the committee are turning up either dead or missing. What's going on in Winsome?
A fun, entertaining and enjoyable read. This one becomes pretty sinister just for a little advertising or is that all that's going on in the little town of Winsome?
Thanks to Henery Press for approving my request and to Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
The main plot of the book is that it's October and the town of Winsome is holding an Octoberfest. There is major contention in that most of the townsfolk are not happy with the farm picked to be the major sponsor for the event. The farm picked gets a lot of free publicity. Seeing as this is an event that is supposed to be helping out the little farmers and the biggest farmer becomes the sponsor. The whole town is seeing red.
Not only that, several people on the committee are turning up either dead or missing. What's going on in Winsome?
A fun, entertaining and enjoyable read. This one becomes pretty sinister just for a little advertising or is that all that's going on in the little town of Winsome?
Thanks to Henery Press for approving my request and to Net Galley for providing me with a free e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2017
Oh how I love these books by Wendy Tyson. Filled with wonderfully developed characters, interesting locations, yummy recipes and the ins and outs of not only day to day life, but day to day SMALL TOWN life.
I was so excited to find a copy on my Kindle this morning and now I'm depressed that I've already finished the book! I can't wait for book 3. Wendy, please don't make us wait too long.
I was so excited to find a copy on my Kindle this morning and now I'm depressed that I've already finished the book! I can't wait for book 3. Wendy, please don't make us wait too long.
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