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Spice Shop Mystery #5
Ginger Snapped
Piper Prescott and Police Chief Wyatt McBride might have gotten off on the wrong foot but, over the past year, their interactions have evolved into a friendship of sorts. And when the body of Shirley Randolph is found floating in a fishing hole, their relationship reaches entirely new territory.
Shirley, the town's Realtor of the Year, was also Wyatt's suspected romantic interest, and now the residents of Brandywine Creek are speculating that Wyatt is responsible for her death. As the town council moves to suspend the handsome lawman, Piper springs into action to save his reputation and possibly his freedom. She enlists the aid of her BFF, Reba Mae Johnson, along with Wyatt himself, to help solve the puzzle and find Shirley’s real killer.
Pointing them toward high-powered real estate tactics and possible affairs, the investigation soon becomes personal when Piper's shop, Spice It Up!, is burglarized, and she’s forced off the road late one night, narrowly escaping serious injury. Realizing that she must be close to uncovering the truth, and that the evidence against Wyatt is no longer circumstantial, Piper resorts to drastic measures to prevent a grave miscarriage of justice.
Shirley, the town's Realtor of the Year, was also Wyatt's suspected romantic interest, and now the residents of Brandywine Creek are speculating that Wyatt is responsible for her death. As the town council moves to suspend the handsome lawman, Piper springs into action to save his reputation and possibly his freedom. She enlists the aid of her BFF, Reba Mae Johnson, along with Wyatt himself, to help solve the puzzle and find Shirley’s real killer.
Pointing them toward high-powered real estate tactics and possible affairs, the investigation soon becomes personal when Piper's shop, Spice It Up!, is burglarized, and she’s forced off the road late one night, narrowly escaping serious injury. Realizing that she must be close to uncovering the truth, and that the evidence against Wyatt is no longer circumstantial, Piper resorts to drastic measures to prevent a grave miscarriage of justice.
291 pages, Hardcover
First published December 12, 2017
52 people are currently reading
442 people want to read
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November 8, 2017
Piper Prescott and best friend, Reba Mae, are back and stirring up life in the picturesque town of Brandywine Creek with their investigation of a murder. The town residents are shocked when a local realtors body is found naked in a pond on police chief Wyatt McBride’s property, and it doesn’t look like she was there skinny dipping. Wyatt’s suspended until the case is solved, but that gives he and Piper more time to smooth out their relationship. Spice It Up, Piper’s shop, is about to celebrate it’s one year anniversary, and she’s proud of her success.
I enjoyed the humor in this story and, of course, Piper and Reba Mae are constantly sticking their noses in people’s business hoping to find out who killed the realtor! Piper’s children are growing up and require their mother’s patience, help, and understanding more than ever.
It’s obvious that Piper is close to exposing a culprit when her house is trashed and she’s run off the road. I found this mystery interesting and figured out one person who was involved but I didn’t know exactly why until the final reveal. The author includes delicious recipes for her readers enjoyment.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital ARC provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
I enjoyed the humor in this story and, of course, Piper and Reba Mae are constantly sticking their noses in people’s business hoping to find out who killed the realtor! Piper’s children are growing up and require their mother’s patience, help, and understanding more than ever.
It’s obvious that Piper is close to exposing a culprit when her house is trashed and she’s run off the road. I found this mystery interesting and figured out one person who was involved but I didn’t know exactly why until the final reveal. The author includes delicious recipes for her readers enjoyment.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital ARC provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
January 7, 2018
Dollycas’s Thoughts
The town of Brandywine Creek is turned upside down when local realtor Shirley Randolph is found in Police Chief Wyatt McBride’s fishing hole. He is suspended from the force and is now the prime suspect. Piper is on the case to prove his innocence and set things right all around town, but it isn’t easy when her ex gets right in the middle of things. She is clearly on the killer’s radar because her shop was broken into and the person was definitely looking for something. Circumstances get dicey when her life is in danger and spicy when she gets closer to the chief.
This was a fun mystery to read. Piper and Reba Mae are always entertaining, but the direction of Wyatt and Piper’s relationship was the part I liked the best. Him, being suspended made him see how beneficial Piper could be with her bit of investigating. Plus spending time together sure didn’t hurt. This is not your typical cozy romance, in fact, Piper did believe the gossip around town, that he and the deceased were seeing each other. Kudos to the author for the way this is written.
The case this time was tricky because the officer left in charge was trying harder to prove Wyatt’s guilt, is after his job, rather than trying to find the real guilty party. Thankfully Piper was following the clues and reporting back to the chief so that the truth would be revealed. I was there with them every step of the way.
This mystery is nicely seasoned with plenty of humor. Small town life lends well to that as does small-town politics. At times I was shaking my head because so many things remind me of the small town where I grew up. Then you add in the Southern ways and charm, and you have a perfect cozy mystery.
There are also fantastic recipes in the book after the story.
What a great read to start the new year!
The town of Brandywine Creek is turned upside down when local realtor Shirley Randolph is found in Police Chief Wyatt McBride’s fishing hole. He is suspended from the force and is now the prime suspect. Piper is on the case to prove his innocence and set things right all around town, but it isn’t easy when her ex gets right in the middle of things. She is clearly on the killer’s radar because her shop was broken into and the person was definitely looking for something. Circumstances get dicey when her life is in danger and spicy when she gets closer to the chief.
This was a fun mystery to read. Piper and Reba Mae are always entertaining, but the direction of Wyatt and Piper’s relationship was the part I liked the best. Him, being suspended made him see how beneficial Piper could be with her bit of investigating. Plus spending time together sure didn’t hurt. This is not your typical cozy romance, in fact, Piper did believe the gossip around town, that he and the deceased were seeing each other. Kudos to the author for the way this is written.
The case this time was tricky because the officer left in charge was trying harder to prove Wyatt’s guilt, is after his job, rather than trying to find the real guilty party. Thankfully Piper was following the clues and reporting back to the chief so that the truth would be revealed. I was there with them every step of the way.
This mystery is nicely seasoned with plenty of humor. Small town life lends well to that as does small-town politics. At times I was shaking my head because so many things remind me of the small town where I grew up. Then you add in the Southern ways and charm, and you have a perfect cozy mystery.
There are also fantastic recipes in the book after the story.
What a great read to start the new year!
July 30, 2018
Number 5 in the Spice Shop Mystery series and another humdinger of a story by Gail Oast (and I have the feeling this maybe #5 and the last - sniff!), this is a roller coaster from pretty much the first page and it well deserves (in my opinion) 5 out of 5 stars.
We start with a bridal shower for Melly and Cot, we then move to the wedding where phones keep going off, and from there on in we are kept guessing as to what will happen next. We have a dead Realtor and Wyatt McBride being accused of the murder! This means that he is suspended and Beau Tucker is temporarily in charge (the problem is he doesn't appear to be looking at anyone else!), oh and CJ is trying to get the suspension made permanent. With Piper's son looking to take time off from University, Lindsey about to start University and Reba Mae hooking up with a rather wealthy Biker things are looking serious in Brandywine Creek.
It would be nice to have more adventures with Piper and the rest of Brandywine Creek but if there are no more then Ms Oast has tied things up nicely and at no point are you left thinking "I wonder what would happen to .....".
We start with a bridal shower for Melly and Cot, we then move to the wedding where phones keep going off, and from there on in we are kept guessing as to what will happen next. We have a dead Realtor and Wyatt McBride being accused of the murder! This means that he is suspended and Beau Tucker is temporarily in charge (the problem is he doesn't appear to be looking at anyone else!), oh and CJ is trying to get the suspension made permanent. With Piper's son looking to take time off from University, Lindsey about to start University and Reba Mae hooking up with a rather wealthy Biker things are looking serious in Brandywine Creek.
It would be nice to have more adventures with Piper and the rest of Brandywine Creek but if there are no more then Ms Oast has tied things up nicely and at no point are you left thinking "I wonder what would happen to .....".
December 22, 2017
This is a new author to me and obviously, the first book I have read in this series. I was able to follow the story with no problem, but would like to go back and read the earlier books to get some background on the characters.
Piper Prescott and best friend, Reba Mae, Live in Brandywine Creek. They are a fun pair of BFFs who get themselves involved in things that can cause problems. When the local realtor is found naked and dead in the fishing pond on the property of police chief Wyatt McBride, he is obviously the main suspect, especially when there are rumours that they had a relationship. Piper's ex-husband has a hate on for Wyatt and working with his father-in-law, get him suspended. Piper has feelings for Wyatt and she is determined to find out who the real murderer is, that is once the interim chief declares it a homicide. Piper's shop, Spice It Up, seems to be the center of town gossip similar to the coffee shops in other cozies.
I enjoyed the humor in this story, especially between Piper and Reba Mae. Piper’s children are growing up and require their mother’s patience, help, and understanding more than ever. This adds some family drama to the story. When Piper's home is broken into and trashed, you know that she had inadvertently stumbled upon something to expose the killer. I figured out what had happened and had a sneaking suspicion who the murderer was before it was revealed. This is a fun cozy and of course, it has recipes included. I am looking forward to seeing where Piper and Wyatt's relationship is going to go. If you enjoy a cozy mystery, pick this one up and enjoy. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
Piper Prescott and best friend, Reba Mae, Live in Brandywine Creek. They are a fun pair of BFFs who get themselves involved in things that can cause problems. When the local realtor is found naked and dead in the fishing pond on the property of police chief Wyatt McBride, he is obviously the main suspect, especially when there are rumours that they had a relationship. Piper's ex-husband has a hate on for Wyatt and working with his father-in-law, get him suspended. Piper has feelings for Wyatt and she is determined to find out who the real murderer is, that is once the interim chief declares it a homicide. Piper's shop, Spice It Up, seems to be the center of town gossip similar to the coffee shops in other cozies.
I enjoyed the humor in this story, especially between Piper and Reba Mae. Piper’s children are growing up and require their mother’s patience, help, and understanding more than ever. This adds some family drama to the story. When Piper's home is broken into and trashed, you know that she had inadvertently stumbled upon something to expose the killer. I figured out what had happened and had a sneaking suspicion who the murderer was before it was revealed. This is a fun cozy and of course, it has recipes included. I am looking forward to seeing where Piper and Wyatt's relationship is going to go. If you enjoy a cozy mystery, pick this one up and enjoy. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
January 5, 2018
Author Gail Oust has created another mouthwatering mystery with, GINGER SNAPPED!
I’m always so excited to read a new installment in the tasty Spice Shop Mysteries. Spending time in Brandywine Creek with Piper Prescott, Reba Mae Johnson, and the rest of the quirky Southern cast is one of my favorite ways to escape the real world.
I am such a fan of the Spice Shop Mysteries! And this fifth book in the series has only served to solidify that. In GINGER SNAPPED, Oust has penned another top notch mystery filled with secrets, murder, and fun! Once started on this story, I couldn’t set my book down. Between her smooth, fluid writing, and talent for building a tale to a thrilling conclusion, I was the author’s willingly captive audience.
GINGER SNAPPED has left me hungry for more stories in this wonderful series. After all, when it comes to cozy mysteries like this one, you can’t have enough of a great thing!
I’m always so excited to read a new installment in the tasty Spice Shop Mysteries. Spending time in Brandywine Creek with Piper Prescott, Reba Mae Johnson, and the rest of the quirky Southern cast is one of my favorite ways to escape the real world.
I am such a fan of the Spice Shop Mysteries! And this fifth book in the series has only served to solidify that. In GINGER SNAPPED, Oust has penned another top notch mystery filled with secrets, murder, and fun! Once started on this story, I couldn’t set my book down. Between her smooth, fluid writing, and talent for building a tale to a thrilling conclusion, I was the author’s willingly captive audience.
GINGER SNAPPED has left me hungry for more stories in this wonderful series. After all, when it comes to cozy mysteries like this one, you can’t have enough of a great thing!
October 13, 2024
I have really enjoyed this series and would recommend it to anyone who loves a good cozy mystery.
This book is no exception and it was a very fun [and funny] read and I wasn't really sure just what happened and who did it until close to the end and that is always a very good thing.
One of the biggest things that I loved about this book was that now that "white-bread" boring Doug is out of the picture [and who didn't cheer when he left in the last book] leaving Piper clear to pursue a relationship with the resident Chief Wyatt - THAT made me just want to cheer out loud.
I sure hope that there will be more of these down the road; I will absolutely keep reading them if there are more.
This book is no exception and it was a very fun [and funny] read and I wasn't really sure just what happened and who did it until close to the end and that is always a very good thing.
One of the biggest things that I loved about this book was that now that "white-bread" boring Doug is out of the picture [and who didn't cheer when he left in the last book] leaving Piper clear to pursue a relationship with the resident Chief Wyatt - THAT made me just want to cheer out loud.
I sure hope that there will be more of these down the road; I will absolutely keep reading them if there are more.
December 3, 2017
This is a new to me author and series. The book cover and title sounded interesting and I was happy to receive an ARC for review.
Piper is the owner of Spice It Up! in the small town of Brandywine Creek.
Keeping her company is her best friend Reba Mae, who is a truly colorful character in this book.
Hoping to spice up her love life, Piper has eyes for Wyatt McBride, police chief of Brandywine Creek, but when the naked body of the local real estate agent is found, dead on his property, Piper is determined to prove him innocent.
I was able to follow the story, but I plan on reading the others so I can get a better idea of all the characters.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book offered by the publisher and Netgalley.
Piper is the owner of Spice It Up! in the small town of Brandywine Creek.
Keeping her company is her best friend Reba Mae, who is a truly colorful character in this book.
Hoping to spice up her love life, Piper has eyes for Wyatt McBride, police chief of Brandywine Creek, but when the naked body of the local real estate agent is found, dead on his property, Piper is determined to prove him innocent.
I was able to follow the story, but I plan on reading the others so I can get a better idea of all the characters.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book offered by the publisher and Netgalley.
January 18, 2018
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January 8, 2018
Ginger Snapped by Gail Oust is the fifth book in the Spice Shop Mystery Series. For the past three years, I have started out each new year with Gail’s new book being my first book of the year. 🙂 I’ve come to look forward to spending the new year with Piper, Reba Mae, Wyatt, and the rest of the gang in Brandywine Creek. I found myself laughing out loud and sleuthing right along with Piper. This book is one of those mysteries that you just have a blast reading. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I am going to make it a point to go back and read books 1 & 2 since I haven’t read them yet. I can’t get enough of the awesome characters, witty dialogue, perfect setting, and top-notch mysteries in this series.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily sharing my honest review. Review originally appeared on Brooke Blogs.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily sharing my honest review. Review originally appeared on Brooke Blogs.
November 21, 2017
Piper Prescott and Police Chief Wyatt McBride don’t always see eye-to-eye. Over the past year, their communications have progressed into a friendship more or less. When the body of realtor Shirley Randolph is found floating in a fishing hole on Wyatt’s property, their relationship takes a turn.
Shirley, the town's Realtor of the Year, was also Wyatt's suspected romantic interest. Now the residents of Brandywine Creek are speculating that Wyatt is responsible for her death. As the town council moves to suspend the lawman, Piper feels she has to solve the crime to save his reputation, job and possibly his freedom.
The clues lead them toward high-powered real estate tactics and possible affairs. The investigation becomes personal when Piper's shop, “Spice It Up,” is burglarized, and she’s forced off the road late one night. She realizes that someone thinks so is close to uncovering the truth. Enlisting her best friend, Reba Mae’s help she sets out to stop a killer.
--
Series: A Spice Shop Mystery
Author: Gail Oust
Genre: Culinary Cozy
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Ginger Snapped is a well written, highly entertaining story. Ms. Oust has a great imagination and writes in an easy to follow manner that is both intelligent and articulate. Her characters are fun with quirks and habits that are enjoyable and relatable.
Piper is a bit different. She owns a spice shop that carries everything a person could imagine, whether it is for cooking or used for home remedies, Piper has it all. She is likeable if slightly quieter than expected. When issues arise, she isn’t always the first one to say anything. Quite often she keeps things to herself that might otherwise be shouted from the highest tree by others. She is cautious as well as quizzical all at the same time.
Reba Mae is outspoken, gregarious and an all-around interesting character, more Reba in this book would have been a benefit. Wyatt, is a typical police officer, closed mouth except when he doesn’t want to be, solid and easy to talk to. Other characters are equally entertaining and humorous as the main characters while some are not likable at all.
The setting of Brandywine Creek is detailed only as much as needed to allow the reader to follow the clues, and the many walks Piper and her pet, Casey take. Other businesses are described with enough information to draw upon the reader's imagination.
Although Ginger Snapped is an excellent who-done-it, the unveiling of the killer is a bit too sudden. The clues to the identity of the killer could have been better. All of this aside, the book is a fast-paced, enjoyable read that readers will not want to put down. It is highly recommended for anyone who enjoys writers such as Kirsten Weiss or Karen Rose Smith.
Shirley, the town's Realtor of the Year, was also Wyatt's suspected romantic interest. Now the residents of Brandywine Creek are speculating that Wyatt is responsible for her death. As the town council moves to suspend the lawman, Piper feels she has to solve the crime to save his reputation, job and possibly his freedom.
The clues lead them toward high-powered real estate tactics and possible affairs. The investigation becomes personal when Piper's shop, “Spice It Up,” is burglarized, and she’s forced off the road late one night. She realizes that someone thinks so is close to uncovering the truth. Enlisting her best friend, Reba Mae’s help she sets out to stop a killer.
--
Series: A Spice Shop Mystery
Author: Gail Oust
Genre: Culinary Cozy
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Ginger Snapped is a well written, highly entertaining story. Ms. Oust has a great imagination and writes in an easy to follow manner that is both intelligent and articulate. Her characters are fun with quirks and habits that are enjoyable and relatable.
Piper is a bit different. She owns a spice shop that carries everything a person could imagine, whether it is for cooking or used for home remedies, Piper has it all. She is likeable if slightly quieter than expected. When issues arise, she isn’t always the first one to say anything. Quite often she keeps things to herself that might otherwise be shouted from the highest tree by others. She is cautious as well as quizzical all at the same time.
Reba Mae is outspoken, gregarious and an all-around interesting character, more Reba in this book would have been a benefit. Wyatt, is a typical police officer, closed mouth except when he doesn’t want to be, solid and easy to talk to. Other characters are equally entertaining and humorous as the main characters while some are not likable at all.
The setting of Brandywine Creek is detailed only as much as needed to allow the reader to follow the clues, and the many walks Piper and her pet, Casey take. Other businesses are described with enough information to draw upon the reader's imagination.
Although Ginger Snapped is an excellent who-done-it, the unveiling of the killer is a bit too sudden. The clues to the identity of the killer could have been better. All of this aside, the book is a fast-paced, enjoyable read that readers will not want to put down. It is highly recommended for anyone who enjoys writers such as Kirsten Weiss or Karen Rose Smith.
December 31, 2019
3 stars might be generous!! (edit: after writing this i changed it to 2) i picked this book up @ the library bc it was featured in a christmas display and i wanted a christmas cozy mystery, but guess what?? christmas wasn’t mentioned at ALL, and gingersnaps weren’t either... until the very end! um hello!! there’s a gingerbread man on the cover and you’re telling me this takes place in the spring?? (edit: sorry i’m still mad that the title of this book is Ginger Snapped and it isn’t a christmas book. also slightly angry w/ the librarian who set up this display)
diet culture was the puppeteer clutching the strings of this book
have you ever read a book with a first person protagonist who doesn’t seem like they’re actually human? this woman felt robotic to me! and she freaked out abt her son taking a gap year to travel europe between college and med school !! boomer propaganda, i tell you!
second to last point, i don’t think this author has ever met a black person!!! somehow all three black characters (who all worked in some sort of service/secretarial role) were related to each other. i get that it’s a small town but like......
this book was published in 2017.
back to the insufferable main character!! truly one of the most incompetent sleuths i’ve ever read. she would discover something that was very clearly a clue that would lead to solving the mystery and then would just forget about it??? she picked up a ‘black plastic object’ from the murder victim’s home and just stuck it in her pocket, completely forgetting abt it until like two days later?
anyway, she fell in love with a cop! that’s it, bye! happy 100 books to me i guess!
diet culture was the puppeteer clutching the strings of this book
have you ever read a book with a first person protagonist who doesn’t seem like they’re actually human? this woman felt robotic to me! and she freaked out abt her son taking a gap year to travel europe between college and med school !! boomer propaganda, i tell you!
second to last point, i don’t think this author has ever met a black person!!! somehow all three black characters (who all worked in some sort of service/secretarial role) were related to each other. i get that it’s a small town but like......
this book was published in 2017.
back to the insufferable main character!! truly one of the most incompetent sleuths i’ve ever read. she would discover something that was very clearly a clue that would lead to solving the mystery and then would just forget about it??? she picked up a ‘black plastic object’ from the murder victim’s home and just stuck it in her pocket, completely forgetting abt it until like two days later?
anyway, she fell in love with a cop! that’s it, bye! happy 100 books to me i guess!
January 25, 2022
Altro ultimo libro di una serie che avevo messo da parte. Effettivamente, sono un po' triste che la serie sia finita, soprattutto dopo gli sviluppi nella vita privata della protagonista.
Per quanto riguarda questa storia, devo dire che dopo un po' di indecisione avevo risolto l'enigma. Sto diventando brava a scoprire i colpevoli, mentre prima non ci azzeccavo mai...
Per quanto riguarda questa storia, devo dire che dopo un po' di indecisione avevo risolto l'enigma. Sto diventando brava a scoprire i colpevoli, mentre prima non ci azzeccavo mai...
December 7, 2017
I don't know where I have been, but this is my first book by Ms Oust and I loved it. Looking forward to going back and reading the previous books in the series.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 8, 2017
**I voluntarily read this ARC**
This was a really enjoyable book. It is the first one I have read in this series, and I had no trouble following the story. The mystery was interesting and well written.
This was a really enjoyable book. It is the first one I have read in this series, and I had no trouble following the story. The mystery was interesting and well written.
February 25, 2018
I keep taking chances on randomly chosen cozy mysteries. Because sometimes they pay off, beautifully – I've absolutely loved a few of the cozies I've come across lately. But, more often, they just don't; sometimes they're horrible, and sometimes they're just … meh. This was one of the latter.
My rule of thumb: if I've made a lot of notes and highlights on my Kindle, it's either a very good book or a very bad one. For this, I seem to have made none at all. I've had to read through the synopsis and other people's reviews to dredge up memories of what it was about, and even now it just doesn't stand out in any way. Lady owns a food-oriented business in a small town, is dating a local cop, investigates a murder because she wants to clear someone she cares about, has a quirky bff, is surrounded by quirky townsfolk, does ridiculous and ill-advised if not illegal things in her unauthorized inquiry, and wraps the whole thing up with some peripheral and who-cares character booked for the murder and a couple of recipes.
It wasn't terrible – I gave it three stars after I finished. I guess for me it was just … unnecessary. More of the same. It offered nothing new or different.
The usual disclaimer: I received this book via Netgalley for review.
My rule of thumb: if I've made a lot of notes and highlights on my Kindle, it's either a very good book or a very bad one. For this, I seem to have made none at all. I've had to read through the synopsis and other people's reviews to dredge up memories of what it was about, and even now it just doesn't stand out in any way. Lady owns a food-oriented business in a small town, is dating a local cop, investigates a murder because she wants to clear someone she cares about, has a quirky bff, is surrounded by quirky townsfolk, does ridiculous and ill-advised if not illegal things in her unauthorized inquiry, and wraps the whole thing up with some peripheral and who-cares character booked for the murder and a couple of recipes.
It wasn't terrible – I gave it three stars after I finished. I guess for me it was just … unnecessary. More of the same. It offered nothing new or different.
The usual disclaimer: I received this book via Netgalley for review.
October 28, 2017
This is the fifth book in this series but it can be read as a stand alone novel. I liked the cozy mystery vibe I got from reading this book. Piper is definitely a star. Yet, her best friend, Reba Mae is special too. In fact, I would have liked more Reba Mae. She really brought the humor and kept things lively. Everyone needs a Reba Mae in their lives.
Although, I have not read any of the other books in this series, I connected with the rest of the characters as well. I like that they were not thrown into the story as secondary characters. They had roles in the story. While, I did not know much about Shirley, I did get that she rubbed some of the people the wrong way. However, I don't think she deserved her fate.
Watching Piper and Reba Mae try to solve the case did prove to be entertaining. They had luck on their side as they stumbled into trouble along the way as well. Plus, I have learned more about ginger and the different forms and ways it can be used. Ginger Snapped is sure to delight cozy mystery fans both long time fans and new ones as well.
Although, I have not read any of the other books in this series, I connected with the rest of the characters as well. I like that they were not thrown into the story as secondary characters. They had roles in the story. While, I did not know much about Shirley, I did get that she rubbed some of the people the wrong way. However, I don't think she deserved her fate.
Watching Piper and Reba Mae try to solve the case did prove to be entertaining. They had luck on their side as they stumbled into trouble along the way as well. Plus, I have learned more about ginger and the different forms and ways it can be used. Ginger Snapped is sure to delight cozy mystery fans both long time fans and new ones as well.
December 23, 2017
This series took me a book or two to warm up to but I have really enjoyed the middle two. Ginger Snapped is the best, and sadly, the last in the series. The mystery was enjoyable and almost all the characters of the series play a role in some way. There are some changes, some things remain the same, and some hint at what's to come. I left Brandywine very satisfied, with a vision for Piper's future and as always, success for her in both her business and professional life.
While the book can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend that you read the series from the beginning. You'll get a chance to know the family dynamics and see the excellent character development. I have Ms. Oust's Bunco series and that is on my 2o18 TBR series list.
While the book can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend that you read the series from the beginning. You'll get a chance to know the family dynamics and see the excellent character development. I have Ms. Oust's Bunco series and that is on my 2o18 TBR series list.
March 15, 2025
Lovely story that tied up all the loose endings in this five book series. I will miss the characters!
January 1, 2018
Piper is distracted from her spice business when a local real estate agent is murdered, and the chief of police himself, her crush Wyatt McBride, is the main suspect. He's under suspension, and Piper's ex-husband, who is now acting mayor, would be delighted to see McBride out of a job permanently. But Piper has different ideas, and despite many warnings, insists on investigating (all right, snooping) herself.
September 19, 2017
This is the fifth in a wonderful series set in Brandywine Creek and the Southern voice is pitch perfect. I would enjoy spending some time with Piper and her best friend, Reba Mae. Piper is a divorced mother of a teenaged daughter. She owns her dream come true, a spice shop. Her love life could do with some help and that figures into her current situation - her ex-husband and his new wife (Piper calls her The Georgia Peach Pit) are front and center when the dead body of a local real estate agent is found floating in the fishing hole behind the home of Piper's (possible) new love. As he is a member of the local police force and, some suspect, was more than just friends with the deceased, Piper's life gets complicated. She knows he didn't do it and sets out to figure out who done it before who done it does her in for information she may or may not have. I have enjoyed every one of the entries in this series and I have no doubt I will be first in line to read the sixth book.
My thanks to the publisher Minotaur and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
My thanks to the publisher Minotaur and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 10, 2018
The title cracked me up and I love a cozy where you learn a little something. In this case, you learn about spices and specifically ginger. There were a lot of characters to keep track of and many of them seemed to have a reason to be the murderer. But, in the end, discovering the killer was pretty straight forward. I liked that is was just one murder and how we (the readers) are led off track. One story line about a vasectomy was an absolute crack up. I liked the main character, Piper Prescott (who owns the spice shop) and her best friend Reba Mae (the local hairdresser). I liked Piper's love interest McBride. Once again I have walked right into the middle of the series. Thankfully, the book stands alone and is good. For some reason, Piper and McBride reminded me of Sandra Balzo's Maggy Thorsen and Jake.
December 29, 2017
Piper and Reba Mae are a force to be reckoned with. A wonderful stand alone cozy mystery that is part of an addictive series. While the two best friends are central to solving the murder of the top local real estate agent, much more is going on around and behind the scenes.
Devious dealings, strangers around town and not your typical romance power this story.
A spice shop on main Street wouldn't be thought of as gossip central but Piper manages to keep abreast of town happenings. However things going on within her own family are sometimes missed.
Another fun series where after you've read one book you want to read the whole series.
Devious dealings, strangers around town and not your typical romance power this story.
A spice shop on main Street wouldn't be thought of as gossip central but Piper manages to keep abreast of town happenings. However things going on within her own family are sometimes missed.
Another fun series where after you've read one book you want to read the whole series.
January 21, 2020
This is a standard cozy mystery. This time, the protagonist, Piper Prescott, owns a spice shop, Spice it Up!, in a small town in Georgia. When a wheeler-dealer real estate agent is murdered, the town's police chief becomes the prime suspect. Since he is also Piper's main squeeze, she feels duty-bound to clear him of the charge. Lots of local color and fun characters.
May 2, 2021
This is book number five in this series and will be looking for stories to be written by this author. The creative characters, Georgia small town setting, and a clever ending will have readers looking for book number six. copy right 2017 284 pages
December 16, 2018
Not a bad cozy mystery.
December 28, 2018
Sadly I'm reading out of order.
August 28, 2017
Title: Ginger Snapped Spice Shop Mystery Book 5
Author: Gail Oust
Publisher: St. Martin;s Press
Published: 12-12-2017
Pages: 304
Genre: Mystery & Thriller
Sub-Genre: Amateur Sleuth, Culinary Mystery, Suspense, Cozy Mystery,
ISBN: 9781250081261
ASIN: B071LM71RR
Reviewed For NetGalley and St. Msrtin's Press
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.25 Stars
Piper Prescott and Police Chief Wyatt McBride might have gotten off on the wrong foot but, over the past year, their interactions have evolved into a friendship of sorts. And when the body of Shirley Randolph is found floating in a fishing hole, their relationship reaches entirely new territory.
Shirley, the town's Realtor of the Year, was also Wyatt's suspected romantic interest, and now the residents of Brandywine Creek are speculating that Wyatt is responsible for her death. As the town council moves to suspend the handsome lawman, Piper springs into action to save his reputation and possibly his freedom. She enlists the aid of her BFF, Reba Mae Johnson, along with Wyatt himself, to help solve the puzzle and find Shirley’s real killer.
Pointing them toward high-powered real estate tactics and possible affairs, the investigation soon becomes personal when Piper's shop, Spice It Up!, is burglarized, and she’s forced off the road late one night, narrowly escaping serious injury. Realizing that she must be close to uncovering the truth, and that the evidence against Wyatt is no longer circumstantial, Piper resorts to drastic measures to prevent a grave miscarriage of justice.
As spicy as ginger is so is this mystery. Piper is determined to prove Wyatt is in no way responsible for the demise of Shirley Randolph. Things are changing between Piper and Wyatt, but are still up in the air. A fun read to enoy. This is the fifth book in the series. I would suggest reading the previous books in order for better understanding of the characters and their interactions to one another.
My rating of "Ginger Snapped Spice Shop Mystery Book 5" is 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250081262/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ging...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Ginger...
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/ging...
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: Gail Oust
Publisher: St. Martin;s Press
Published: 12-12-2017
Pages: 304
Genre: Mystery & Thriller
Sub-Genre: Amateur Sleuth, Culinary Mystery, Suspense, Cozy Mystery,
ISBN: 9781250081261
ASIN: B071LM71RR
Reviewed For NetGalley and St. Msrtin's Press
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.25 Stars
Piper Prescott and Police Chief Wyatt McBride might have gotten off on the wrong foot but, over the past year, their interactions have evolved into a friendship of sorts. And when the body of Shirley Randolph is found floating in a fishing hole, their relationship reaches entirely new territory.
Shirley, the town's Realtor of the Year, was also Wyatt's suspected romantic interest, and now the residents of Brandywine Creek are speculating that Wyatt is responsible for her death. As the town council moves to suspend the handsome lawman, Piper springs into action to save his reputation and possibly his freedom. She enlists the aid of her BFF, Reba Mae Johnson, along with Wyatt himself, to help solve the puzzle and find Shirley’s real killer.
Pointing them toward high-powered real estate tactics and possible affairs, the investigation soon becomes personal when Piper's shop, Spice It Up!, is burglarized, and she’s forced off the road late one night, narrowly escaping serious injury. Realizing that she must be close to uncovering the truth, and that the evidence against Wyatt is no longer circumstantial, Piper resorts to drastic measures to prevent a grave miscarriage of justice.
As spicy as ginger is so is this mystery. Piper is determined to prove Wyatt is in no way responsible for the demise of Shirley Randolph. Things are changing between Piper and Wyatt, but are still up in the air. A fun read to enoy. This is the fifth book in the series. I would suggest reading the previous books in order for better understanding of the characters and their interactions to one another.
My rating of "Ginger Snapped Spice Shop Mystery Book 5" is 4.25 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250081262/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ging...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Ginger...
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/ging...
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...
December 13, 2017
Ginger Snapped by Gail Oust is the fifth book in A Spice Shop Mystery series. Piper Prescott owns Spice It Up! In Brandywine Creek. It is April and Melly Prescott, Piper’s former mother-in-law, is getting married to Judge Cottrell Herman. Love has mellowed Melly and changed the relationship between the two women. During the wedding, Sgt. Beau Tucker and John Strickland (the coroner) get phones calls and rush off. After the wedding, Piper finds out that a body was found in Sheriff Wyatt McBride’s pond. Piper rushes over to his home worried about Wyatt (Piper is attracted to him). It turns out that local realtor, Shirley Randolph is the victim. Since Wyatt had been seen with Shirley recently, he is a prime suspect. Wyatt is suspended, and Beau Tucker is made interim sheriff. To clear Wyatt’s name and get him reinstated as sheriff, Piper along with Reba Mae and Wyatt explore Shirley’s life to see who could have wished her harm. Piper realizes she is close to the truth when someone runs her off the road one night and then breaks into her home. What was the killer looking for in her home? The culprit is setting up Wyatt to take the fall, and Piper is not going to let it happen.
Ginger Snapped is a light, humorous cozy mystery. I found it nicely written with a steady pace that made it easy to read. Gail Oust shows what life is like in a small, Southern town where everyone knows your business, gossip abounds, nepotism is alive and thriving, and the people are friendly (and very nosy). The jealousy, flirting and attraction between Wyatt and Piper was prevalent throughout Ginger Snapped. While Ginger Snapped is the fifth book in A Spice Shop Mystery series, it can be read alone. The author provides the necessary background on Piper, the spice shop, the town and secondary characters. We get to experience Piper life at the shop and with her family. I am not a fan of Piper’s ex-husband and his new wife. They are annoying and hinder my enjoyment of the story. I keep hoping that CJ will become the killer’s next victim (and Amber will get eaten by a shark). The investigation consists of Piper asking questions and nosing around the victim’s home with Reba Mae. When the killer’s identity is revealed, most readers will not be surprised. The why, though, takes a little longer to figure out. I appreciated the description of the spice shop and the information on ginger (it was interesting). Readers who enjoy hilarity, hijinks and homicide in a small Southern town,
Ginger Snapped is a light, humorous cozy mystery. I found it nicely written with a steady pace that made it easy to read. Gail Oust shows what life is like in a small, Southern town where everyone knows your business, gossip abounds, nepotism is alive and thriving, and the people are friendly (and very nosy). The jealousy, flirting and attraction between Wyatt and Piper was prevalent throughout Ginger Snapped. While Ginger Snapped is the fifth book in A Spice Shop Mystery series, it can be read alone. The author provides the necessary background on Piper, the spice shop, the town and secondary characters. We get to experience Piper life at the shop and with her family. I am not a fan of Piper’s ex-husband and his new wife. They are annoying and hinder my enjoyment of the story. I keep hoping that CJ will become the killer’s next victim (and Amber will get eaten by a shark). The investigation consists of Piper asking questions and nosing around the victim’s home with Reba Mae. When the killer’s identity is revealed, most readers will not be surprised. The why, though, takes a little longer to figure out. I appreciated the description of the spice shop and the information on ginger (it was interesting). Readers who enjoy hilarity, hijinks and homicide in a small Southern town,
February 19, 2025
Piper Prescott should really stop getting involved in murder investigations—but then again, where’s the fun in that? In Ginger Snapped, Brandywine Creek’s favorite spice shop owner finds herself in a very sticky situation when local real estate queen Shirley Randolph is found floating in a fishing hole. It’s bad enough that a high-profile murder has shaken up the town, but things get really complicated when the number-one suspect is none other than Police Chief Wyatt McBride—a man Piper might have some feelings for. With Wyatt suspended and small-town gossip reaching peak levels of chaos, Piper and her best friend Reba Mae decide it’s time to dig for the truth… before someone decides to permanently silence the town’s nosiest amateur sleuth.
This book delivers everything a cozy mystery should—quirky small-town drama, a mystery packed with red herrings, and a heroine who cannot resist getting way too involved. Piper is as determined (and slightly reckless) as ever, and her chemistry with Wyatt adds a fun layer of tension to the case. The mystery keeps things moving, and between break-ins, shady real estate dealings, and a few too many near-misses for Piper’s safety, the stakes feel higher than usual. Plus, with Reba Mae in the mix, you know the investigation is going to come with a side of humor. While this is book five in the Spice Shop Mystery series, it works just fine as a standalone—though longtime fans will enjoy seeing Piper’s relationships and personal life continue to develop.
A solid 4 out of 5 stars! Ginger Snapped is the perfect mix of mystery, small-town charm, and Southern sass, sprinkled with enough danger to keep things interesting. If you love a cozy mystery with a heroine who really should stop playing detective but absolutely never will, this is one to add to your list. Bonus: it comes with recipes, so you can solve a mystery and whip up something delicious at the same time.
This book delivers everything a cozy mystery should—quirky small-town drama, a mystery packed with red herrings, and a heroine who cannot resist getting way too involved. Piper is as determined (and slightly reckless) as ever, and her chemistry with Wyatt adds a fun layer of tension to the case. The mystery keeps things moving, and between break-ins, shady real estate dealings, and a few too many near-misses for Piper’s safety, the stakes feel higher than usual. Plus, with Reba Mae in the mix, you know the investigation is going to come with a side of humor. While this is book five in the Spice Shop Mystery series, it works just fine as a standalone—though longtime fans will enjoy seeing Piper’s relationships and personal life continue to develop.
A solid 4 out of 5 stars! Ginger Snapped is the perfect mix of mystery, small-town charm, and Southern sass, sprinkled with enough danger to keep things interesting. If you love a cozy mystery with a heroine who really should stop playing detective but absolutely never will, this is one to add to your list. Bonus: it comes with recipes, so you can solve a mystery and whip up something delicious at the same time.
December 16, 2017
Ginger Snapped
By
Gail Oust
What it's all about...
I believe this is the newest book in this author’s Spice Shop series. This book is about a murder in the smallish town of Brandywine Creek. Piper...owner of Spice It Up...a spice shop...is one of those people who has a keen interest in crime solving. She also has a keen interest in Wyatt McBride...the very handsome Police Chief! Also in this case...the victim is a prominent resident in this smallish town rumored to be having an affair...but with whom is a puzzle!
Why I wanted to read it...
I loved the cover and I loved the summary of this book. It sort of beckoned to me! Now I am compelled to read the four books before this one in order. However...even though this is the last book I was not lost at all. This author does a fantastic job of helping the reader get his/her bearings in this town and with its residents.
What made me truly enjoy this book...
I loved Piper and her friends. I loved the townspeople who were always popping into Piper’s shop. I loved her bestie...Reba Mae Johnson...she was lots of fun! CJ and Amber...Piper’s ex-husband and new young wife...were delightfully annoying. Descriptions of Southern foods at all of the parties, luncheons,
funeral and wedding receptions were mouth watering...especially reading about Reba Mae diving into them.
Why you should read it, too...
Readers who love cozy mysteries will love these characters. This is a book that will keep readers involved and interested. Piper knows her spices and knows how to solve crimes...often at the risk of her own safety.
“I received an advance reader’s copy from the publisher and NetGalley through Amazon in exchange for my honest review.”
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