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A Five-Ingredient Mystery #4
The Tell-Tale Tarte
It s a cold January in the Chesapeake Bay area, but Cool Down Cafe manager Val Deniston has plenty to sweat over like catering a book club event, testing recipes for her Granddad s cookbook, and catching the author of a deadly tale of murder. . .
The last thing Val needs in her life is an unsolved murder, especially when the victim, an actor famed for impersonating Edgar Allan Poe, happens to be dressed exactly like her Granddad. To keep an eye on Granddad, whose latest job takes him to the home of Rick Usher, a local author inspired by Poe, Val gets herself hired as a cook in Rick s House of Usher. When she discovers the actor wasn t the only one doing an impersonation, separating the innocent from the murderous becomes a real-life horror story. But Val must decipher a killer s M.O. sooner rather than later . . . or she can forget about finding poetic justice.
Includes 6 delicious five-ingredient recipes!
PRAISE FOR FINAL FONDUE
Corrigan keeps her simple mixture of pleasant characters, murder, and recipes in the oven. Kirkus Reviews"
The last thing Val needs in her life is an unsolved murder, especially when the victim, an actor famed for impersonating Edgar Allan Poe, happens to be dressed exactly like her Granddad. To keep an eye on Granddad, whose latest job takes him to the home of Rick Usher, a local author inspired by Poe, Val gets herself hired as a cook in Rick s House of Usher. When she discovers the actor wasn t the only one doing an impersonation, separating the innocent from the murderous becomes a real-life horror story. But Val must decipher a killer s M.O. sooner rather than later . . . or she can forget about finding poetic justice.
Includes 6 delicious five-ingredient recipes!
PRAISE FOR FINAL FONDUE
Corrigan keeps her simple mixture of pleasant characters, murder, and recipes in the oven. Kirkus Reviews"
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 27, 2017
67 people are currently reading
1087 people want to read
About the author
Maya Corrigan
11 books376 followersMaya Corrigan blends her love of food and detective stories in her Five-Ingredient Mystery series set in a fictional historic town on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The series begins with By Cook or by Crook. The latest books include The Tell-Tale Tarte, S'more Murders, Crypt Suzette, and Gingerdead Man, 7th in the series.
Before taking up a life of crime (on the page), she taught university courses in writing, detective fiction, American literature, and drama. She won the 2013 Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Unpublished Mainstream Mystery / Suspense. Her short stories, written under the name of Mary Ann Corrigan, have been published in anthologies.
When not reading and writing, she enjoys theater, travel, trivia, cooking, and crosswords. Her website features trivia about food and mysteries.
Before taking up a life of crime (on the page), she taught university courses in writing, detective fiction, American literature, and drama. She won the 2013 Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Unpublished Mainstream Mystery / Suspense. Her short stories, written under the name of Mary Ann Corrigan, have been published in anthologies.
When not reading and writing, she enjoys theater, travel, trivia, cooking, and crosswords. Her website features trivia about food and mysteries.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
September 18, 2017
THE TELL-TALE TARTE, the newest book in Maya Corrigan's Five-Ingredient Mystery series, has an imaginative, twisting plot that revolves around Edgar Allen Poe. Once again Val Dennison and her grandfather, Don Myer get themselves into some sticky, humourous situations while trying to solve a mystery.
Val, who runs the cafe at the gym and caters on the side wonders why her grandfather has changed his look so drastically. He is very evasive with her, but tells her he has been hired for a PI job and he was paid for the changes. When Val sees a man, who looks like her grandfather collapse at the mall she hurries to his side to see that it is not him. The man dies and it turns out that her boyfriend Gunther not only knows him, but recently had a physical altercation with the man where he has pressed assault charges. Of course, Val is worried that Gunther might somehow be dragged into the situation. When it is determined that he died from unnatural causes, Val begins her sleuthing. She is also concerned that her grandfather looks so much like the dead man. Don, as it turns out, has been hired by a famous author's family to impersonate him when he does not make a public appearance. The author, Rick Usher, writes stories based on Edgar Allen Poe, but rather tongue in cheek.
The relationship between Val and her grandfather is fun to read about. She moved in with him so he would not have to sell his house. He has taken on the food column in the paper, now called "The Codger Cook" but uses Val's recipes, sort of. He rewrites them using less than five ingredients. Some of his attempts are pretty funny. They love each other, but that does not mean they do not get on one another's nerves. It is a realistic relationship in most ways. Don was actually much more instrumental in solving the mystery in this book than in the others. Val is busy trying to build up the cafes business, helping her friend with her wedding plans, trying to help Granddad write his Codger Cookbook, catering as well as solving this mystery. She does not spend much time with Gunther in this story, but he is very busy as well. The other characters involved with the Usher family were a little strange. They were not really in the story much, but were talked about when the mystery was being solved. There were some surprises along the way, even though I was pretty sure of who the murderer was. It did start a little slower than some of her other books in this series, but once I got into it, it moved along at a nice pace. Another fun mystery with some pretty good recipes at the end of the book. A good read for cozy mystery lovers. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
Val, who runs the cafe at the gym and caters on the side wonders why her grandfather has changed his look so drastically. He is very evasive with her, but tells her he has been hired for a PI job and he was paid for the changes. When Val sees a man, who looks like her grandfather collapse at the mall she hurries to his side to see that it is not him. The man dies and it turns out that her boyfriend Gunther not only knows him, but recently had a physical altercation with the man where he has pressed assault charges. Of course, Val is worried that Gunther might somehow be dragged into the situation. When it is determined that he died from unnatural causes, Val begins her sleuthing. She is also concerned that her grandfather looks so much like the dead man. Don, as it turns out, has been hired by a famous author's family to impersonate him when he does not make a public appearance. The author, Rick Usher, writes stories based on Edgar Allen Poe, but rather tongue in cheek.
The relationship between Val and her grandfather is fun to read about. She moved in with him so he would not have to sell his house. He has taken on the food column in the paper, now called "The Codger Cook" but uses Val's recipes, sort of. He rewrites them using less than five ingredients. Some of his attempts are pretty funny. They love each other, but that does not mean they do not get on one another's nerves. It is a realistic relationship in most ways. Don was actually much more instrumental in solving the mystery in this book than in the others. Val is busy trying to build up the cafes business, helping her friend with her wedding plans, trying to help Granddad write his Codger Cookbook, catering as well as solving this mystery. She does not spend much time with Gunther in this story, but he is very busy as well. The other characters involved with the Usher family were a little strange. They were not really in the story much, but were talked about when the mystery was being solved. There were some surprises along the way, even though I was pretty sure of who the murderer was. It did start a little slower than some of her other books in this series, but once I got into it, it moved along at a nice pace. Another fun mystery with some pretty good recipes at the end of the book. A good read for cozy mystery lovers. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
April 9, 2021
A new year has started, and Val Deniston’s grandfather appears to be making some changes in his life. He’s updated his look, including a new haircut and new outfit. He claims it is for a new job he’s landed for his investigations business. Then Val is on the scene when a man dies at a nearby shopping center – a man who looks just like Grandfather does now thanks to his new look. The case soon points to Rick Usher, a local author who has made a career writing tales inspired by Edgar Allan Poe. Is Grandfather the next target of the killer? How does Rick play into the mystery?
I must confess, I know little about Poe (I feel like I should know more considering how much I love mysteries), but that wasn’t a hamper to enjoying this book. Poe lore is certainly a big part of the inspiration of the story, and bits and pieces of his life weave their way into the book. Even without that, we get a strong mystery with plenty of intrigue. I did feel the ending was a little weak, but it did wrap everything up. The characters are fun and continue to grow here. I’m especially interested to see where some of those relationships go in the future. We get six more five-ingredient recipes at the end. Whether you are a fan of Poe or not, this book will keep you guessing until the end.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
I must confess, I know little about Poe (I feel like I should know more considering how much I love mysteries), but that wasn’t a hamper to enjoying this book. Poe lore is certainly a big part of the inspiration of the story, and bits and pieces of his life weave their way into the book. Even without that, we get a strong mystery with plenty of intrigue. I did feel the ending was a little weak, but it did wrap everything up. The characters are fun and continue to grow here. I’m especially interested to see where some of those relationships go in the future. We get six more five-ingredient recipes at the end. Whether you are a fan of Poe or not, this book will keep you guessing until the end.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
August 25, 2017
Another installment by Maya Corrigan in this “5 Ingredient” mystery series. Her writing style is interesting and humorous. This series continues to develop and the characters continue to delight; if not frustrate us, the reader!
Val Deniston would do anything for her grandfather, Don Mayer. Don would do anything to “spice up” his life, even if that means become an imposter. He meets the most interesting people and in this installment he meets an author who is inspired by Edgar Allan Poe. What does Gramps do? Start impersonating Edgar Allan Poe or is it the author? Don’s friends at the local theater are in danger of being murdered. So many people under cover, it’s a “who’s who”. Will Val figure this all out before someone else dies; hopefully not gramps!
Val Deniston would do anything for her grandfather, Don Mayer. Don would do anything to “spice up” his life, even if that means become an imposter. He meets the most interesting people and in this installment he meets an author who is inspired by Edgar Allan Poe. What does Gramps do? Start impersonating Edgar Allan Poe or is it the author? Don’s friends at the local theater are in danger of being murdered. So many people under cover, it’s a “who’s who”. Will Val figure this all out before someone else dies; hopefully not gramps!
December 1, 2024
This was a lot of fun. I enjoyed the Edgar Allen Poe theme of this book. I like the characters and enjoy Val teaming up with her granddad, it’s a nice change from a grandmother character. The mystery was good and I think it’s got to be fun for the author to include a character whose an author. Codger cook recipes are included at the end.
June 5, 2017
Val Deniston is startled when she a man similar to her Grandfather collapse in the ground. She rushed to his aid and begin to give emergency aid. Relieved that the man is not her Grandfather but is dressed very similar to her Grandfather. This is the beginning of the affair of Rick Usher, noted writer who sees stories are based on Edgar Allen Poe. That evening she enjoyed her Grandfather impersonating Rick Usher at a book club event. Val learned that her Grandfather was hired to double as Rick Usher who has been seen for several months. Why, is he dead? Val is worried that her Grandfather might be in danger as The man who collapsed was murder. Val needs answers before her Grandfather loses his life. I recommend a book
The recipes mentioned in The book are included.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
The recipes mentioned in The book are included.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
March 25, 2018
Val is up over her ears in problems, firstly the manager of the health club seems to want to close the cafe down (even though it is turning a nice profit), her Grandfather has suddenly had a make-over, but the worst of it is that she sees someone who LOOKS like her Grandfather and he has just dropped dead!
Gunner is in the frame for that death, her Grandfather has been asked to impersonate a local author (hence the make-over) and Val has an evening catering gig. In between all this she needs to write and trial more 5 ingredient recipes, oh and find out who murdered the actor (out of rather a large cast of people)!
Gunner is in the frame for that death, her Grandfather has been asked to impersonate a local author (hence the make-over) and Val has an evening catering gig. In between all this she needs to write and trial more 5 ingredient recipes, oh and find out who murdered the actor (out of rather a large cast of people)!
July 10, 2017
The Tell-Tale Tarte by Maya Corrigan is the fourth book in A Five-Ingredient Mystery series. Val Deniston is shocked when her grandfather, Don Myer comes home with a new look. She can tell that he up to something, but Granddad is claiming client confidentiality. Val is leaving the mall with her best friend, Bethany O’Shay when she sees a man resembling her grandfather collapse in the parking lot. The man, thankfully, is not her Granddad. The man does not survive, and he is dressed in Granddad’s new look (same haircut, glasses, hat, and clothes). What has Granddad gotten into this time? At dinner that evening with Gunnar, Val discovers the deceased is Emmett Flint. Emmett was an actor with the local theater group along with Gunnar. Gunnar, unfortunately, recently had an argument with the man and benefits from his death which puts him at the top of the suspect list. While catering a book club dinner, Val discovers Granddad’s new job. He was hired to impersonate Rick Usher. Was Emmett Flint hired to perform this task as well? Was the killer after Emmett, Granddad, or Rick Usher? Val soon finds herself embroiled in a mystery surrounding author, Rick Usher. To get closer to Usher, Val accepts a job as the families’ personal chef. Val needs to clear Gunnar’s name and keep her grandfather safe. When Val is not scouting for clues, she is working at the Cool Down Café, testing recipes for The Codger’s Cookbook (another one of Granddad’s projects), and exploring ways to get her contract on the café renewed. Will Val uncover the killer before he strikes again?
I found The Tell-Tale Tarte to be a slow starter. I had a hard time finishing this cozy mystery. The pace starting out slow and failed to improve. There is a repetition of information. I find it annoying to find the same details repeated over and over. I have not been able to warm up to Val and her grandfather (or any of the characters). I felt that the characters are lacking in depth. Val is a hard character to like. She does not exude warmth or friendliness. The grandfather’s antics just got on my nerves. Why does it have to be one zany thing after another? I do not mind a little bit of quirkiness, but Granddad is over-the-top. He expects Val to support him in his subterfuge (which she does). My rating for The Tell-Tale Tarte is 3 out of 5 stars. The mystery was interesting, but uncomplicated and could be solved early in the story. The suspect pool is minute and the killer sticks out (might as well have been an arrow pointing at the individual). The subplot of Val’s café contract was too dominant in the book. The details about the contract and who would take over the space are mentioned frequently. The “romance” between Gunnar and Val does not feel real. It is like the author determined that there should be a romance in the book so she put it in. I just do not feel the connection or affection between them. I did enjoy the Poe references in the book. I am a fan of Edgar Allan Poe and his works (did a paper or two on him in college). There are recipes at the end of the book from the Codger.
I found The Tell-Tale Tarte to be a slow starter. I had a hard time finishing this cozy mystery. The pace starting out slow and failed to improve. There is a repetition of information. I find it annoying to find the same details repeated over and over. I have not been able to warm up to Val and her grandfather (or any of the characters). I felt that the characters are lacking in depth. Val is a hard character to like. She does not exude warmth or friendliness. The grandfather’s antics just got on my nerves. Why does it have to be one zany thing after another? I do not mind a little bit of quirkiness, but Granddad is over-the-top. He expects Val to support him in his subterfuge (which she does). My rating for The Tell-Tale Tarte is 3 out of 5 stars. The mystery was interesting, but uncomplicated and could be solved early in the story. The suspect pool is minute and the killer sticks out (might as well have been an arrow pointing at the individual). The subplot of Val’s café contract was too dominant in the book. The details about the contract and who would take over the space are mentioned frequently. The “romance” between Gunnar and Val does not feel real. It is like the author determined that there should be a romance in the book so she put it in. I just do not feel the connection or affection between them. I did enjoy the Poe references in the book. I am a fan of Edgar Allan Poe and his works (did a paper or two on him in college). There are recipes at the end of the book from the Codger.
October 15, 2017
This is so much fun. Val Deniston and her grandpa team up to find a killer. I think I would have loved this even more had I read the others, but this is just fine on its own. Val doesn't want to get dragged in to anything, but finds she has to keep tabs on her nosy grandpa before he gets in trouble. I loved the whole Edgar Allan Poe theme and the way the author spun it into the plot. I'm looking forward to more. Cozy fans will find this a delight.
September 4, 2021
I liked this more than I expected, and the mystery resolved in a surprising way even though I assumed I knew who the killer was. Also funny, the book includes a recipe adapted from the chef at a local to me restaurant that I like a lot. I unfortunately read this while passing time in the hospital for a family emergency, and it's likely that the book will forever be tied to that in my memory.
October 25, 2020
I won this most delightful book. Val has plenty to do without having a murder committed. What can she do. I was certainly hooked for more.
December 11, 2017
This Chesapeake girl really enjoys reading these stories. Maya Corrigan captures the region's characteristics so well in her Five Ingredient Mystery Series; the weather, the food, the history, and the people. How Val and her grandfather always end up having to work together to solve the mystery and the hijinks they get up to figure out the murderer really add to the fun of the story. This time around they get involved with an author who is recapturing Poe and in the process an actor gets killed. Of course Gunnar is a suspect and of course Bethany is involved in sneaking around in the dark. All in all another great addition to the series.
June 6, 2017
**I voluntarily read this ARC**
This was an interesting book. The Poe facts were a neat addition and helped make the story feel a little more real.
This was an interesting book. The Poe facts were a neat addition and helped make the story feel a little more real.
March 13, 2019
Great mystery, lots of suspense, lots of suspects until they finally find out who the murderer is.
Val + her granddad are great sleuths and helps the police chief solve a very unusual case.
Val + her granddad are great sleuths and helps the police chief solve a very unusual case.
August 24, 2017
Title: The Tell-Tale Tarte - Five-Ingredient Mystery Book 4
Author: Maya Corrigan
Publisher: Kensington Books
Published: 6-27-2017
Pages: 304
Genre: Mystery & Thriller
Sub-Genre: Amateur Sleuths, Suspense, Women's Sleuths, Cozy Mystery, Women's Fiction, Culinary Mystery
ISBN: 9781496709172
ASIN: B01LXQC6ZG
Reviewed For NetGalley and Kensington Books
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.25 Stars
It’s a cold January in the Chesapeake Bay area, but Cool Down Café manager Val Deniston has plenty to sweat over—like catering a book club event, testing recipes for her Granddad’s cookbook, and catching the author of a deadly tale of murder. . .
The last thing Val needs in her life is an unsolved murder, especially when the victim, an actor famed for impersonating Edgar Allan Poe, happens to be dressed exactly like her Granddad. To keep an eye on Granddad, whose latest job takes him to the home of Rick Usher, a local author inspired by Poe, Val gets herself hired as a cook in Rick’s House of Usher. When she discovers the actor wasn’t the only one doing an impersonation, separating the innocent from the murderous becomes a real-life horror story. But Val must decipher a killer’s M.O. sooner rather than later . . . or she can forget about finding poetic justice.
Includes 6 delicious five-ingredient recipes!
This complex whodunit is firstly who was the intended victim. A very intense cozy mystery to enjoy from the very first opening paragraphs. Interesting characters and a well laid out plot that moves fast. Plenty of clues to follow and a joy to read.
My rating of "The Tell-Tale Tarte - Five-Ingredient Mystery Book 4" is 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LXQC6ZG/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Tell-T...
Google Play Link: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: Title: The Tell-Tale Tarte - Five-Ingredient Mystery Book 4
Author: Maya Corrigan
Publisher: Kensington Books
Published: 6-27-2017
Pages: 304
Genre: Mystery & Thriller
Sub-Genre: Amateur Sleuths, Suspense, Women's Sleuths, Cozy Mystery, Women's Fiction, Culinary Mystery
ISBN: 9781496709172
ASIN: B01LXQC6ZG
Reviewed For NetGalley and Kensington Books
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.25 Stars
It’s a cold January in the Chesapeake Bay area, but Cool Down Café manager Val Deniston has plenty to sweat over—like catering a book club event, testing recipes for her Granddad’s cookbook, and catching the author of a deadly tale of murder. . .
The last thing Val needs in her life is an unsolved murder, especially when the victim, an actor famed for impersonating Edgar Allan Poe, happens to be dressed exactly like her Granddad. To keep an eye on Granddad, whose latest job takes him to the home of Rick Usher, a local author inspired by Poe, Val gets herself hired as a cook in Rick’s House of Usher. When she discovers the actor wasn’t the only one doing an impersonation, separating the innocent from the murderous becomes a real-life horror story. But Val must decipher a killer’s M.O. sooner rather than later . . . or she can forget about finding poetic justice.
Includes 6 delicious five-ingredient recipes!
This complex whodunit is firstly who was the intended victim. A very intense cozy mystery to enjoy from the very first opening paragraphs. Interesting characters and a well laid out plot that moves fast. Plenty of clues to follow and a joy to read.
My rating of "The Tell-Tale Tarte - Five-Ingredient Mystery Book 4" is 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LXQC6ZG/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Tell-T...
Google Play Link: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
Author: Maya Corrigan
Publisher: Kensington Books
Published: 6-27-2017
Pages: 304
Genre: Mystery & Thriller
Sub-Genre: Amateur Sleuths, Suspense, Women's Sleuths, Cozy Mystery, Women's Fiction, Culinary Mystery
ISBN: 9781496709172
ASIN: B01LXQC6ZG
Reviewed For NetGalley and Kensington Books
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.25 Stars
It’s a cold January in the Chesapeake Bay area, but Cool Down Café manager Val Deniston has plenty to sweat over—like catering a book club event, testing recipes for her Granddad’s cookbook, and catching the author of a deadly tale of murder. . .
The last thing Val needs in her life is an unsolved murder, especially when the victim, an actor famed for impersonating Edgar Allan Poe, happens to be dressed exactly like her Granddad. To keep an eye on Granddad, whose latest job takes him to the home of Rick Usher, a local author inspired by Poe, Val gets herself hired as a cook in Rick’s House of Usher. When she discovers the actor wasn’t the only one doing an impersonation, separating the innocent from the murderous becomes a real-life horror story. But Val must decipher a killer’s M.O. sooner rather than later . . . or she can forget about finding poetic justice.
Includes 6 delicious five-ingredient recipes!
This complex whodunit is firstly who was the intended victim. A very intense cozy mystery to enjoy from the very first opening paragraphs. Interesting characters and a well laid out plot that moves fast. Plenty of clues to follow and a joy to read.
My rating of "The Tell-Tale Tarte - Five-Ingredient Mystery Book 4" is 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LXQC6ZG/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Tell-T...
Google Play Link: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: Title: The Tell-Tale Tarte - Five-Ingredient Mystery Book 4
Author: Maya Corrigan
Publisher: Kensington Books
Published: 6-27-2017
Pages: 304
Genre: Mystery & Thriller
Sub-Genre: Amateur Sleuths, Suspense, Women's Sleuths, Cozy Mystery, Women's Fiction, Culinary Mystery
ISBN: 9781496709172
ASIN: B01LXQC6ZG
Reviewed For NetGalley and Kensington Books
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.25 Stars
It’s a cold January in the Chesapeake Bay area, but Cool Down Café manager Val Deniston has plenty to sweat over—like catering a book club event, testing recipes for her Granddad’s cookbook, and catching the author of a deadly tale of murder. . .
The last thing Val needs in her life is an unsolved murder, especially when the victim, an actor famed for impersonating Edgar Allan Poe, happens to be dressed exactly like her Granddad. To keep an eye on Granddad, whose latest job takes him to the home of Rick Usher, a local author inspired by Poe, Val gets herself hired as a cook in Rick’s House of Usher. When she discovers the actor wasn’t the only one doing an impersonation, separating the innocent from the murderous becomes a real-life horror story. But Val must decipher a killer’s M.O. sooner rather than later . . . or she can forget about finding poetic justice.
Includes 6 delicious five-ingredient recipes!
This complex whodunit is firstly who was the intended victim. A very intense cozy mystery to enjoy from the very first opening paragraphs. Interesting characters and a well laid out plot that moves fast. Plenty of clues to follow and a joy to read.
My rating of "The Tell-Tale Tarte - Five-Ingredient Mystery Book 4" is 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LXQC6ZG/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Tell-T...
Google Play Link: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
September 14, 2017
Val Deniston lives with her grandfather in Bayport, Maryland and runs a cafe in the local fitness club, and does catering on the side. While helping her friend Bethany search for a wedding dress, they see a man who resembles her grandfather's new look - black coat, beard, tinted glasses - and thinks it might be him. When the man falls in front of a car, she dashes toward him, relieved her fears were unfounded, but still helping give him CPR. Unfortunately, no amount of CPR could save the man, still unknown to her and the people nearby. Later that night she she finds out from her boyfriend Gunnar the man's name - Emmett Flint, an actor in the same troupe as Gunnar.
When Val goes to her latest job, a book club, it's when she's serving dessert that she sees the "noted author" invited is not only not the author, it's her grandfather Don who, for some unknown reason, is impersonating Rick Usher, the author in question. Rick has made a career of writing in the style of Edgar Allan Poe and has quite a group of followers himself. But when she questions his assistant Clancy, also attending the dinner, she discovers only that 'Rick' is supposedly hoarse from an ailment and Clancy is answering all questions.
As time progresses it is discovered that Emmett may not have died from natural causes, and Val is worried for her boyfriend Gunnar, who is the main suspect, and also her grandfather, who is now spending time with Rick himself. So when Val is offered a job catering dinners at Usher's home, she agrees in order to try and find out who killed Emmett and why. Will there be another murder or will poetic justice prevail? Val will have to move fast to find the answer...
As a huge Poe fan, I once made a trip to Baltimore just to visit his grave, and own all his books (and wrote an essay on him while in school) so this book was one I was looking forward to reading. While the plot had interesting points, and I did like the fact we have the murder almost immediately - which is always a nice thing so you aren't subjected to pages and pages of needless detail - it also moved slowly for the first quarter of the book.
Reading farther, I was somewhat torn; partly because her grandfather seemed a bit of a con man to me: he used her recipes to get a job writing a food column for the newspaper, and then expects to continue so he can write a cookbook. This did not endear me to the man, and grandfather or not, she should have set him straight about who gets the credit and where, especially since he's secretive on other things as well. He seemed more like a "user" than a loving grandfather. It also seemed like they were nothing more than business partners (and not very equal-sided, either). As for the relationship between Val and Gunnar, there doesn't seem to be any "oomph" attached. They just seemed boring when they were talking to each other.
Eventually the suspect list was narrowed down to a select few, and then you have the meat of the story. Putting it together at the end was interesting, and it all came together nicely at last. Recommended.
When Val goes to her latest job, a book club, it's when she's serving dessert that she sees the "noted author" invited is not only not the author, it's her grandfather Don who, for some unknown reason, is impersonating Rick Usher, the author in question. Rick has made a career of writing in the style of Edgar Allan Poe and has quite a group of followers himself. But when she questions his assistant Clancy, also attending the dinner, she discovers only that 'Rick' is supposedly hoarse from an ailment and Clancy is answering all questions.
As time progresses it is discovered that Emmett may not have died from natural causes, and Val is worried for her boyfriend Gunnar, who is the main suspect, and also her grandfather, who is now spending time with Rick himself. So when Val is offered a job catering dinners at Usher's home, she agrees in order to try and find out who killed Emmett and why. Will there be another murder or will poetic justice prevail? Val will have to move fast to find the answer...
As a huge Poe fan, I once made a trip to Baltimore just to visit his grave, and own all his books (and wrote an essay on him while in school) so this book was one I was looking forward to reading. While the plot had interesting points, and I did like the fact we have the murder almost immediately - which is always a nice thing so you aren't subjected to pages and pages of needless detail - it also moved slowly for the first quarter of the book.
Reading farther, I was somewhat torn; partly because her grandfather seemed a bit of a con man to me: he used her recipes to get a job writing a food column for the newspaper, and then expects to continue so he can write a cookbook. This did not endear me to the man, and grandfather or not, she should have set him straight about who gets the credit and where, especially since he's secretive on other things as well. He seemed more like a "user" than a loving grandfather. It also seemed like they were nothing more than business partners (and not very equal-sided, either). As for the relationship between Val and Gunnar, there doesn't seem to be any "oomph" attached. They just seemed boring when they were talking to each other.
Eventually the suspect list was narrowed down to a select few, and then you have the meat of the story. Putting it together at the end was interesting, and it all came together nicely at last. Recommended.
May 18, 2017
The Tell-Tale Tarte is the fourth book in Maya Corrigan Five-Ingredient Mystery series. Ms. Corrigan provides enough character background that this book can be read as a standalone. The storyline is well thought out and this is a clean read. The characters are well developed and there are lots of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged.
Val Deniston lives in Bayport in Chesapeake Bay area, manages, Cool Down Café, at a local fitness center with her assistant, Bethany, and caters on the side. She lives with her grandfather, Don Myer, who’s taking online private investigator course, writing a recipe column for the local newspaper, and plans to publish The Codger’s Cookbook. Don has a taken on a new job and a completely new look. The relationship between Val and her boyfriend, Gunnar Swensen, is progressing at a slow pace, which is what they both want. Val’s worried the café maybe replaced by a sportswear boutique and decides to extend her hours of operation, and hires her nemeses, Irene Pritchard, and her son, Jeremy, with the hope of boosting the café’s profits. While Val and Bethany are at the mall, Val sees a man who she mistakes for her newly ‘made over’ grandfather collapse and rushes to help him. Fortunately, it isn’t Don, but sadly, the man passes. The man is identified as Emmett Flint, an actor who known for impersonating Edgar Allan Poe, and it’s suspected he died from an overdose of blood pressure meds. Gunnar, who received an inheritance when his great-aunt passed, left a secure government job and moved to Bayport to pursue his dream of becoming an actor, had recently argued with Emmett and his understudy in a local play, and is a suspect in his death. After catering a book club dinner, Val discovers that Don’s new job and makeover are connected to Rick Usher, a local author captivated by Edgar Allen Poe’s works. Don has been hired to ‘represent’ Rick at public appearances. Val starts investigating because she wants to clear Gunnar’s name and to protect her grandfather since it appears the murder might be related to Rick Usher.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Val Deniston lives in Bayport in Chesapeake Bay area, manages, Cool Down Café, at a local fitness center with her assistant, Bethany, and caters on the side. She lives with her grandfather, Don Myer, who’s taking online private investigator course, writing a recipe column for the local newspaper, and plans to publish The Codger’s Cookbook. Don has a taken on a new job and a completely new look. The relationship between Val and her boyfriend, Gunnar Swensen, is progressing at a slow pace, which is what they both want. Val’s worried the café maybe replaced by a sportswear boutique and decides to extend her hours of operation, and hires her nemeses, Irene Pritchard, and her son, Jeremy, with the hope of boosting the café’s profits. While Val and Bethany are at the mall, Val sees a man who she mistakes for her newly ‘made over’ grandfather collapse and rushes to help him. Fortunately, it isn’t Don, but sadly, the man passes. The man is identified as Emmett Flint, an actor who known for impersonating Edgar Allan Poe, and it’s suspected he died from an overdose of blood pressure meds. Gunnar, who received an inheritance when his great-aunt passed, left a secure government job and moved to Bayport to pursue his dream of becoming an actor, had recently argued with Emmett and his understudy in a local play, and is a suspect in his death. After catering a book club dinner, Val discovers that Don’s new job and makeover are connected to Rick Usher, a local author captivated by Edgar Allen Poe’s works. Don has been hired to ‘represent’ Rick at public appearances. Val starts investigating because she wants to clear Gunnar’s name and to protect her grandfather since it appears the murder might be related to Rick Usher.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
June 27, 2017
THE TELL-TALE TARTE, the newest book in Maya Corrigan's Five-Ingredient Mystery series, has an imaginative, twisty-turvey plot that revolves around Edgar Allen Poe. From the title and raven on the adorable cover; to the character’s name, Rick Usher; to the creative Poe puns; the author pays homage to the master of mystery. While I don’t specifically remember if I’ve ever read any Poe (probably in high school) I did love the old movies based on his stories with Vincent Price and Bela Lugosi. Suitably suspenseful without the horror of being graphic. However, rest assured, Maya has written a clever cozy that will keep a reader entertained and guessing “whodunit” without stepping foot into the horror genre that Poe was known for.
The protagonist, Val Deniston, has a wonderful relationship with her roommate/granddad, Don Myer, aka the “Codger Cook.” I’ll have to admit, the Codger Cook kind of stole the show this time. The way he has roped Val into writing a cookbook for him to how he’s taken such huge pride in taking an online P.I. course then proceeds to get in trouble by sleuthing, Don is the kind of senior citizen I enjoy being entertained by. There is humorous dialog and entertaining quotes between the characters which provides light moments in between the murder mystery. The author also touches upon the horrors vets must cope with after experiencing both the psychological and physical traumas of being in war. The subject is a sober reminder of how much we should be grateful for.
Maya Corrigan also provides six five-ingredient recipes at the back of the book, all of which sound delicious! I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to try her signature Tarte Tatin recipe. The dessert turned out spectacular and her instructions were easy to follow.
I was provided an advanced copy with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The protagonist, Val Deniston, has a wonderful relationship with her roommate/granddad, Don Myer, aka the “Codger Cook.” I’ll have to admit, the Codger Cook kind of stole the show this time. The way he has roped Val into writing a cookbook for him to how he’s taken such huge pride in taking an online P.I. course then proceeds to get in trouble by sleuthing, Don is the kind of senior citizen I enjoy being entertained by. There is humorous dialog and entertaining quotes between the characters which provides light moments in between the murder mystery. The author also touches upon the horrors vets must cope with after experiencing both the psychological and physical traumas of being in war. The subject is a sober reminder of how much we should be grateful for.
Maya Corrigan also provides six five-ingredient recipes at the back of the book, all of which sound delicious! I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to try her signature Tarte Tatin recipe. The dessert turned out spectacular and her instructions were easy to follow.
I was provided an advanced copy with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 16, 2021
#4 in the 5-ingredient series; with an intricate plot and a lot of action.
Val is helping a friend find a dress at the mall when she thinks she sees her grandfather collapse. She provides CPR, but the man, Emmett Flint, dies. It isn't her grandfather, but he could be a double. And it isn't natural causes, it's murder. Unfortunately, this man had a beef with Gunnar, Val's beau, and Gunner comes under suspicion. What does this have to do with granddad's latest gig, impersonating an author (Rick Usher) who incorporates Edgar Allen Poe's stories into his own books. And why is granddad impersonating this author anyway? Meanwhile, Val's cafe is under threat of being closed. She takes on some catering gigs at the author's home so she can both keep an eye on her grandfather as well as figure out who the heck the murderer is and whether he or she will strike again.
If you are a Poe fan, you'll enjoy the book. There are layers of mysteries and stories here....who killed Emmett and why; what will happen with Val's cafe; is someone stalking Rick Usher and was he perhaps the intended victim....there is a lot going on in the book. It's a little complicated, and almost, but not quite, too many side stories. There's enough going on in the book to keep your interest and keep you thinking. I had no idea who the murderer was, given the suspect pool, but it all made sense in the end.
Grandfather also writes a column for the paper of 5 ingredient dishes. There are a couple of recipes at the end of the book that look both simple and tasty that I will have to try.
Even though this is #4 in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone book if you are not familiar with the series.
All in all, this was an interesting mystery and well written plot and a series I will continue.
Val is helping a friend find a dress at the mall when she thinks she sees her grandfather collapse. She provides CPR, but the man, Emmett Flint, dies. It isn't her grandfather, but he could be a double. And it isn't natural causes, it's murder. Unfortunately, this man had a beef with Gunnar, Val's beau, and Gunner comes under suspicion. What does this have to do with granddad's latest gig, impersonating an author (Rick Usher) who incorporates Edgar Allen Poe's stories into his own books. And why is granddad impersonating this author anyway? Meanwhile, Val's cafe is under threat of being closed. She takes on some catering gigs at the author's home so she can both keep an eye on her grandfather as well as figure out who the heck the murderer is and whether he or she will strike again.
If you are a Poe fan, you'll enjoy the book. There are layers of mysteries and stories here....who killed Emmett and why; what will happen with Val's cafe; is someone stalking Rick Usher and was he perhaps the intended victim....there is a lot going on in the book. It's a little complicated, and almost, but not quite, too many side stories. There's enough going on in the book to keep your interest and keep you thinking. I had no idea who the murderer was, given the suspect pool, but it all made sense in the end.
Grandfather also writes a column for the paper of 5 ingredient dishes. There are a couple of recipes at the end of the book that look both simple and tasty that I will have to try.
Even though this is #4 in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone book if you are not familiar with the series.
All in all, this was an interesting mystery and well written plot and a series I will continue.
May 10, 2017
Thanks to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC of this book.
I really liked The Tell-Tale Tarte, and thought it was the best entry so far in the Five Ingredient mystery series. This is the 4th book that series, and the books get better and better. It moved along quickly and kept my interest throughout the book. Using Edgar Allan Poe as part of the plot was an inspired idea.
Val Deniston lives with her grandfather Don, who has taken some private eye courses in addition to his food columnist job as the Codger Cook. Val, who is the real cook in the family, caters on the side and runs a cafe at her local fitness center with her assistant Bethany. She and her boyfriend Gunnar, a local actor, are slowly working on their relationship.
Val is catering a dinner for a book club reading the author Rick Usher's books, which take Edgar Allan Poe tales and reimagines the titles as horror stories. She and Bethany are at the mall when a man who looks exactly like her grandfather (who recently had a makeover) collapses in front of them.
It turns out the dead man is an actor in the play that Gunnar is in, and Gunnar becomes one of the main suspects. Val gets involved to clear Gunnar, and to protect her grandfather, because he has been hired to impersonate the famous author Rick Usher. The story continues with a lot of twists and turns, and involves characters that range from a ghostwriter to an actor with shady motives.
The plot was very interesting and the Poe references were fascinating. I thought the characters were, as always, interesting and true to life. There are delicious recipes at the end of the book, which I always appreciate.
I liked this book very much, and highly recommend it to cozy mystery readers.
I really liked The Tell-Tale Tarte, and thought it was the best entry so far in the Five Ingredient mystery series. This is the 4th book that series, and the books get better and better. It moved along quickly and kept my interest throughout the book. Using Edgar Allan Poe as part of the plot was an inspired idea.
Val Deniston lives with her grandfather Don, who has taken some private eye courses in addition to his food columnist job as the Codger Cook. Val, who is the real cook in the family, caters on the side and runs a cafe at her local fitness center with her assistant Bethany. She and her boyfriend Gunnar, a local actor, are slowly working on their relationship.
Val is catering a dinner for a book club reading the author Rick Usher's books, which take Edgar Allan Poe tales and reimagines the titles as horror stories. She and Bethany are at the mall when a man who looks exactly like her grandfather (who recently had a makeover) collapses in front of them.
It turns out the dead man is an actor in the play that Gunnar is in, and Gunnar becomes one of the main suspects. Val gets involved to clear Gunnar, and to protect her grandfather, because he has been hired to impersonate the famous author Rick Usher. The story continues with a lot of twists and turns, and involves characters that range from a ghostwriter to an actor with shady motives.
The plot was very interesting and the Poe references were fascinating. I thought the characters were, as always, interesting and true to life. There are delicious recipes at the end of the book, which I always appreciate.
I liked this book very much, and highly recommend it to cozy mystery readers.
September 8, 2020
4.5 stars
This is the fourth book in the Five-Ingredient Mystery series by Maya Corrigan.
Val’s dad comes home with a fancy new makeover. And strangely enough, she sees a man fall and when she comes upon him, he looks exactly like her grandpa with his new look. This man was an actor looking to impersonate an author for a one-man show he was working on. Then Val has a catering event for a popular author and the man being fawned over is her grandfather and not the author. Now Val is confused and wanting to know what is going on.
This book went round and round. And rightly so since the plot is very intricate. I really enjoyed this cast and the community surrounding the main character. I will definitely be reading more of the books in this series.
I am not exactly sure what makes this a 5-ingredient mystery but I found the mystery compelling and one that I would recommend to anyone who likes cozies. You might want to start at the beginning so you know who the main characters are and get more in depth info about them all.
If you like cozy mysteries, 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 thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the fourth book in the Five-Ingredient Mystery series by Maya Corrigan.
Val’s dad comes home with a fancy new makeover. And strangely enough, she sees a man fall and when she comes upon him, he looks exactly like her grandpa with his new look. This man was an actor looking to impersonate an author for a one-man show he was working on. Then Val has a catering event for a popular author and the man being fawned over is her grandfather and not the author. Now Val is confused and wanting to know what is going on.
This book went round and round. And rightly so since the plot is very intricate. I really enjoyed this cast and the community surrounding the main character. I will definitely be reading more of the books in this series.
I am not exactly sure what makes this a 5-ingredient mystery but I found the mystery compelling and one that I would recommend to anyone who likes cozies. You might want to start at the beginning so you know who the main characters are and get more in depth info about them all.
If you like cozy mysteries, 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 thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
May 20, 2019
About the book, It s a cold January in the Chesapeake Bay area, but Cool Down Cafe manager Val Deniston has plenty to sweat over like catering a book club event, testing recipes for her Granddad s cookbook, and catching the author of a deadly tale of murder. . .
The last thing Val needs in her life is an unsolved murder, especially when the victim, an actor famed for impersonating Edgar Allan Poe, happens to be dressed exactly like her Granddad. To keep an eye on Granddad, whose latest job takes him to the home of Rick Usher, a local author inspired by Poe, Val gets herself hired as a cook in Rick s House of Usher. When she discovers the actor wasn t the only one doing an impersonation, separating the innocent from the murderous becomes a real-life horror story. But Val must decipher a killer s M.O. sooner rather than later . . . or she can forget about finding poetic justice.
I love everything in this book, very good story I am loving this series. I highly recommend reading it.
The last thing Val needs in her life is an unsolved murder, especially when the victim, an actor famed for impersonating Edgar Allan Poe, happens to be dressed exactly like her Granddad. To keep an eye on Granddad, whose latest job takes him to the home of Rick Usher, a local author inspired by Poe, Val gets herself hired as a cook in Rick s House of Usher. When she discovers the actor wasn t the only one doing an impersonation, separating the innocent from the murderous becomes a real-life horror story. But Val must decipher a killer s M.O. sooner rather than later . . . or she can forget about finding poetic justice.
I love everything in this book, very good story I am loving this series. I highly recommend reading it.
January 24, 2022
Maya Corrigan is an accomplished author who has taught writing at Georgetown University and Nova Community College. She was also the winner of the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery Writing. She has lots of twists and turns in this mystery that centers around an author (Rick Usher) who adores Edgar Allen Poe and his books. Usher has written his own novels that include part of Poe's work. Usher's family and employees (who are ardent admirers of Poe also,) and who are a little odd, are now suspects in a murder. There are quite a few people that could have committed the murder, and all are suspect. With the help of Val, an amateur sleuth and her father, a new private investigator, the police now have clues to help find out who, what, where and why the murder happened. There are a few side stories mixed in that involve food and there are recipes for those in the back of the book.
May 16, 2017
I can only give Tarte an OK review. It just didn't engage me and I could have easily not finished it despite liking the other books in the series. It's hard for me to point out what the issue was, I just didn't care about the characters, what was happening to them, who did it or why.
The story line itself has elements that I would think would appeal to me. It's about the sinister happenings around a famous author and his household. Edgar Allan Poe and his writings play a role as well. Again, the author realistically used Val and Grandpa in relation to the bad goings on. The story made sense and there were a decent amount of suspects though it could have gone another way, I had figured out who it was.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
The story line itself has elements that I would think would appeal to me. It's about the sinister happenings around a famous author and his household. Edgar Allan Poe and his writings play a role as well. Again, the author realistically used Val and Grandpa in relation to the bad goings on. The story made sense and there were a decent amount of suspects though it could have gone another way, I had figured out who it was.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
August 1, 2018
In The Tell-Tale Tarte a local actor dies in the street in front of Val. She is shocked by the striking resemblance of the victim and her grandfather. The story involves a reclusive writer, a long-lost child, threats to Val’s cafe, and her grandfather’s new investigation business. Val is juggling many balls in this book and adds a private catering contract to the mix, in part to investigate the mystery. The ending felt a little rushed to me, but I did enjoy the development of Val’s grandfather’s character. It is great to see an older person being independent and spreading their wings in retirement. He now has a newspaper column, he’s a local celebrity, and an investigator. Fun, quick cozy mystery.
October 13, 2021
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Maybe it’s my fault for jumping into book 5 in the series, but I could not get into this book. Val runs a cafe in a gym, which seems strange enough to me to begin with, but she also gets caught up in mysteries, which she solves quicker than the police. This one involves a man who is killed while dressed up a lot like a local author who writes Edgar Allen Poe-inspired mysteries.
There are a lot of potential suspects, including Val’s boyfriend, Gunnar, whom Val basically calls ugly repeatedly. Lots of red herrings, side mysteries, bumbling police officers, etc.
I might give another in this series a chance, but I might not.
Maybe it’s my fault for jumping into book 5 in the series, but I could not get into this book. Val runs a cafe in a gym, which seems strange enough to me to begin with, but she also gets caught up in mysteries, which she solves quicker than the police. This one involves a man who is killed while dressed up a lot like a local author who writes Edgar Allen Poe-inspired mysteries.
There are a lot of potential suspects, including Val’s boyfriend, Gunnar, whom Val basically calls ugly repeatedly. Lots of red herrings, side mysteries, bumbling police officers, etc.
I might give another in this series a chance, but I might not.
June 16, 2017
Although this is book 4 in the Five-Ingredient Mystery series, it's the first one I've read. I had no trouble falling in love with Val and her Grandfather. He's just finished his PI course and has accepted a job impersonating a local author. Val continues to be busy running her cafe and catering local dinners. The two of them begin investigating a murder of a man and the death of his dog. Lots of action and I found myself smiling now and again at some of granddad's exploits. This is a well written cozy mystery with great characters and a fine crime story centered on Edgar Allan Poe's Fall of the House of Usher.
August 5, 2017
This series is awesome! Again, I thank Maya (and all authors) for all the research she puts into her stories. There were so many subplots and lies, etc. it was never boring or slow. Of course, the recipes don't hurt. Val is always trying to keep Granddad out of trouble - this time from impersonating Edgar Allan Poe! Meanwhile, she's trying to keep her boyfriend from being arrested for killing another Poe impersonator! She's also trying to keep her cafe from being turned into a boutique by working with an old enemy, Irene. She proves who the real killer is at Poe's gravesite, and Granddad thinks he's found out who the Poe Toaster is!!
August 28, 2017
The newest installment in the " Five Ingredient Mystery Series" is definitely a highly enjoyable read. I love how the main character has progressed in each addition to the series. I love how the plot circles around Poe which definitely does nothing but add to the story in a really unique way.
The plot was strong filled with mystery, complexity, and humor all rolled into one. A very easy read that anyone would find hard to put down. Also, the addition of simple recipes at the end is a strong check in the plus column.
I received an advance copy of this book via Netgalley. The review and opinions are my own.
The plot was strong filled with mystery, complexity, and humor all rolled into one. A very easy read that anyone would find hard to put down. Also, the addition of simple recipes at the end is a strong check in the plus column.
I received an advance copy of this book via Netgalley. The review and opinions are my own.
June 6, 2017
When Val's Grandfather suddenly changes his appearance and starts acting suspicious, Val knows he is up to something. And when she spies a man who looks just like him near the mall, she watches as he suddenly keels over dead.
When Val and her grandfather finally join forces to find out who wants who dead they make a pretty good team of investigators. The book is full of Poe facts and myths. Very interesting reading.
For a cozy mystery, her characters are not at all cliched! This is one series I'll keep up with!
When Val and her grandfather finally join forces to find out who wants who dead they make a pretty good team of investigators. The book is full of Poe facts and myths. Very interesting reading.
For a cozy mystery, her characters are not at all cliched! This is one series I'll keep up with!
July 22, 2017
I like this series for the fictional Chesapeake Bay town (and then spend time finding places where I'd change what the author has written about the area. I didn't like this one as much as previous entries because the acting thing left me a bit cold- it wasn't consistent with the reality of a small town on the Eastern Shore- and because Grandad went a little over the top. Corrigan does have a nice way of writing- it's a quick read and worth your time if you like the genre. Thanks to net galley for the ArC.
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