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Red Pine Falls Mysteries #1
Hot Tea & Cold Murder
Struggling from the loss of her husband, Abby Morgan finds herself trying to find a new life in a small Oregon town called Red Pine Falls. It has everything she’ll need to recover. A new best friend, a handsome park ranger, and a loving grandmother.
If only her friend, Becky, weren’t accused of murdering a local land developer, it might just be perfect.
If only her friend, Becky, weren’t accused of murdering a local land developer, it might just be perfect.
154 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 20, 2017
531 people are currently reading
201 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
November 11, 2017
Another book that has been sitting on my Kindle Unlimited list for over two months that I've finally gotten around to reading! I mainly joined Kindle Unlimited for the cozy mystery series it offers, and this is a fine example of that. Being the first book,we get set up with the town and the characters early, as well as the romantic interests. They are just different enough from your usual romantic leads for both girls that I enjoyed their beginning flush of possible love.
The mystery is a little weak and poorly wrapped up, honestly. That's why I knocked down a star, but it ends with a fresh mystery to solve, so there is that. A solid start to a mystery series that I will have to check out again soon. Four stars.
The mystery is a little weak and poorly wrapped up, honestly. That's why I knocked down a star, but it ends with a fresh mystery to solve, so there is that. A solid start to a mystery series that I will have to check out again soon. Four stars.
July 27, 2017
Red pine falls Murder mystery
A person most of the small town hated, poison with mushrooms, who did it? Very entertaining story and wonderful told. Enjoyed the characters, mostly the sheriff!
A person most of the small town hated, poison with mushrooms, who did it? Very entertaining story and wonderful told. Enjoyed the characters, mostly the sheriff!
September 20, 2017
Lovely cozy
Great setting , interesting characters , good plot and pacing . I liked the romance - to - come set up, too!
Great setting , interesting characters , good plot and pacing . I liked the romance - to - come set up, too!
June 11, 2017
First book of soon to be three. Loved it.
Good story about small town life and one where everyone knows what's going on within it. Happy Abby is finding new found family and friends. Loved the tame mystery and the way it ends leads you right into Book 2. Since I read Book 2 first am waiting impatiently for Book 3 to be released. Would have given it 5 stars if there hadn't been the typos which slowed down the read a bit.
Good story about small town life and one where everyone knows what's going on within it. Happy Abby is finding new found family and friends. Loved the tame mystery and the way it ends leads you right into Book 2. Since I read Book 2 first am waiting impatiently for Book 3 to be released. Would have given it 5 stars if there hadn't been the typos which slowed down the read a bit.
June 3, 2017
Great read
Started off a little slow, but turned out to be a well written story. Glad to find a female lead who is not a complete bubblehead or bitch. Can't wait to start the next book of the series
Started off a little slow, but turned out to be a well written story. Glad to find a female lead who is not a complete bubblehead or bitch. Can't wait to start the next book of the series
June 24, 2017
Good book, likable main character, interesting secondary characters, lovely Pacific Northwest setting, fast pace plot and a strong mystery. The only reason I gave this book 4 stars instead of 5 is because of the many typos and character name errors.I am now reading the second book in this series, Cold Murder, Dark Secrets.
September 4, 2017
Moving to Red Pine Falls
Abby Morgan takes a big leap of faith to move from the southwest to live with her deceased husband's grandmother in a small town in Oregon. A whole new life, new friends and unexpected mysteries consume Abby and her dog Cheerio.
Abby Morgan takes a big leap of faith to move from the southwest to live with her deceased husband's grandmother in a small town in Oregon. A whole new life, new friends and unexpected mysteries consume Abby and her dog Cheerio.
August 20, 2023
3.5 stars, reluctantly rounded up
This was a Kindle freebie that I picked up because of the opposite words in the title, a task that pops up fairly often in the reading challenges I join. Ms. Blackmoore is a new-to-me author, which was an added bonus. Some of the writing – the way phrases were worded, even the phrases used – seemed off to me. I don’t know if that’s a regional thing that wouldn’t be so jarring if I was from the Northwest, but it was distracting every time it happened.
Abby, the MC, has an interesting and unique backstory, but I’m glad the story didn’t wallow in that story like it could have. I like that she found a solid footing for starting over again, and that most of her new community seems so welcoming. Cheerio, her furry companion, may have been my favorite character. I was a bit dismayed at how quickly she found a “best friend,” but in such a short book, I guess that’s to be expected.
I wasn’t surprised at all at the identity of the murder victim, who was not well-liked at all, so there were quite a few suspects to consider. Given how short the book is, there weren’t many red herrings, and everything was wrapped up so quickly it was a little unnerving. I figured out the motive before I figured out who the killer was, and there wasn’t even a confrontation scene at the end, just a rather meek surrender. Maybe there wasn’t time for a confrontation?
Although I like the way the titles of the books in the series all tie together – Hot Tea and Cold Murder, then Cold Murder and Dark Secrets, then Dark Secrets and Dead Reckoning and so on – I haven’t decided if I’ll continue the series. They’re all even shorter than this book, and I don’t usually enjoy novellas as much as I do full-length novels.
This was a Kindle freebie that I picked up because of the opposite words in the title, a task that pops up fairly often in the reading challenges I join. Ms. Blackmoore is a new-to-me author, which was an added bonus. Some of the writing – the way phrases were worded, even the phrases used – seemed off to me. I don’t know if that’s a regional thing that wouldn’t be so jarring if I was from the Northwest, but it was distracting every time it happened.
Abby, the MC, has an interesting and unique backstory, but I’m glad the story didn’t wallow in that story like it could have. I like that she found a solid footing for starting over again, and that most of her new community seems so welcoming. Cheerio, her furry companion, may have been my favorite character. I was a bit dismayed at how quickly she found a “best friend,” but in such a short book, I guess that’s to be expected.
I wasn’t surprised at all at the identity of the murder victim, who was not well-liked at all, so there were quite a few suspects to consider. Given how short the book is, there weren’t many red herrings, and everything was wrapped up so quickly it was a little unnerving. I figured out the motive before I figured out who the killer was, and there wasn’t even a confrontation scene at the end, just a rather meek surrender. Maybe there wasn’t time for a confrontation?
Although I like the way the titles of the books in the series all tie together – Hot Tea and Cold Murder, then Cold Murder and Dark Secrets, then Dark Secrets and Dead Reckoning and so on – I haven’t decided if I’ll continue the series. They’re all even shorter than this book, and I don’t usually enjoy novellas as much as I do full-length novels.
February 6, 2018
Interesting Mystery
This is the first book in the Red Pines Falls Cozy Mystery Series by Angela Blackmore. I inadvertently read the 2nd book in the series before reading this one. I was introduced to this author when I read a story she wrote for “Three Carols of Cozy Christmas Murder” entitles “Winter Storms and Deadly Thorns”, which actually tells the origin story of the Morgan family in the Red Pines Falls Cozy Mystery Series. It seemed to me the entire story of origin was not told and I was anxious to read more about it. I remembered the title of the 1st book of the series included the words “Cold Murder”, so I read “Cold Murder and Dark Secrets”, only to find out when I had finished reading it that it was the 2nd book of the series. I enjoyed that book and this one but neither of them has gone back to the story of origin that so interested me to begin with. I like the characters in the books. I was not able to solve the mysteries. But I feel disappointed that the story of origin has not been added to. Since I am enjoying the books, I will continue to read this series. I advise you to read the short story first and then read the books in order.
This is the first book in the Red Pines Falls Cozy Mystery Series by Angela Blackmore. I inadvertently read the 2nd book in the series before reading this one. I was introduced to this author when I read a story she wrote for “Three Carols of Cozy Christmas Murder” entitles “Winter Storms and Deadly Thorns”, which actually tells the origin story of the Morgan family in the Red Pines Falls Cozy Mystery Series. It seemed to me the entire story of origin was not told and I was anxious to read more about it. I remembered the title of the 1st book of the series included the words “Cold Murder”, so I read “Cold Murder and Dark Secrets”, only to find out when I had finished reading it that it was the 2nd book of the series. I enjoyed that book and this one but neither of them has gone back to the story of origin that so interested me to begin with. I like the characters in the books. I was not able to solve the mysteries. But I feel disappointed that the story of origin has not been added to. Since I am enjoying the books, I will continue to read this series. I advise you to read the short story first and then read the books in order.
March 14, 2023
Worth the EFfort to Read
I started reading this book in 2017 apparently and recently ran across it. I had never made it past chapter 1, so I decided to try again. I will admit, there are quite a number of writing errors in that chapter--misspellings, confusing word constructions, and some things that appear to be concept disagreements from one page to the next. (Whose grandmother is Hazel anyway?) Most of the latter were explained a few pages later. All that said--it's worth the read.
I was pretty sure in the middle of chapter two that I wouldn't read the next book in the series. Then I hit chapter three and I was Hooked. The story went from okay to compelling in that chapter and have completely changed my mind. The writing is not perfect, but the story is worth the read. The beginnings of character development, especially good for Abby, but good for others as well. Now book two promises some serious development for Grandma Hazel.
After starting this book with low expectations, now I can't wait to read book 2.
I started reading this book in 2017 apparently and recently ran across it. I had never made it past chapter 1, so I decided to try again. I will admit, there are quite a number of writing errors in that chapter--misspellings, confusing word constructions, and some things that appear to be concept disagreements from one page to the next. (Whose grandmother is Hazel anyway?) Most of the latter were explained a few pages later. All that said--it's worth the read.
I was pretty sure in the middle of chapter two that I wouldn't read the next book in the series. Then I hit chapter three and I was Hooked. The story went from okay to compelling in that chapter and have completely changed my mind. The writing is not perfect, but the story is worth the read. The beginnings of character development, especially good for Abby, but good for others as well. Now book two promises some serious development for Grandma Hazel.
After starting this book with low expectations, now I can't wait to read book 2.
March 17, 2019
A year after her husband, Danny, is killed, Abby Morgan finds herself living with his grandmother (who she calls Grandma as well) in Oregon. She know she has to move on with her own life, so this change of scenery could be just what she needs. Along with her Australian Shepherd, Cheerio, Abby quickly finds that small town living can be murderous...in more ways than one.
I enjoyed this first in the Red Pine Fall Mysteries series as it is well written. The author does put in loads of details, but in such a way that it does not bore the reader, only adds to the story. There is a tease at the end of this novel, who is the "Morgan" whose body was just found? A further tease is the first few chapters of the 2nd in the series.
I enjoyed this first in the Red Pine Fall Mysteries series as it is well written. The author does put in loads of details, but in such a way that it does not bore the reader, only adds to the story. There is a tease at the end of this novel, who is the "Morgan" whose body was just found? A further tease is the first few chapters of the 2nd in the series.
June 16, 2017
Everybody needs somebody sometime! Abby and Cheerio found those somebodys in the Pacific Northwest. I agree that anyone that said dogs didn’t understand English had never said bacon around one – or treat, or walk in the park, or… Anyway, if Cheerio doesn’t like someone, neither do I!!! Cheerio doesn’t like Craig Malcolm. It seems as if no one likes him, so we fit right in! Anyone who doesn’t tip probably should have been eaten by tigers when they were young (both our daughter and I have worked as waitresses in the past). In spite of that lizard, I enjoyed the book and recommend it.
July 22, 2017
Good start to new series
A very well written, well thought out book with believable characters. After the passing of her husband, Abby Morgan moves to Oregon to live with his grandmother, and makes friends with Becky, the town's cafe owner. When Becky is accused of poisoning a local business man, Abby wants help clear her friend's name. While doing so, she meets Gabe, and together they hunt for clues to find the real killer. I really liked the story and the setting and look forward to reading more in the series.
A very well written, well thought out book with believable characters. After the passing of her husband, Abby Morgan moves to Oregon to live with his grandmother, and makes friends with Becky, the town's cafe owner. When Becky is accused of poisoning a local business man, Abby wants help clear her friend's name. While doing so, she meets Gabe, and together they hunt for clues to find the real killer. I really liked the story and the setting and look forward to reading more in the series.
August 27, 2017
It's fair to middling
The book is fast paced which I like. I like the people of the village. I get a feel for them though could not describe most of them. I like the way they feel but would have enjoyed more physical descriptions.
I like the story line a lot for this cozy read on a rainy day. That's all it took, a day.
I did find some stumbles that jerked me back to the present while I had figure out a missing word or how to make the more readable.
With better editing and more fleshed out characters, this could be a 5 star book.
The book is fast paced which I like. I like the people of the village. I get a feel for them though could not describe most of them. I like the way they feel but would have enjoyed more physical descriptions.
I like the story line a lot for this cozy read on a rainy day. That's all it took, a day.
I did find some stumbles that jerked me back to the present while I had figure out a missing word or how to make the more readable.
With better editing and more fleshed out characters, this could be a 5 star book.
July 11, 2017
On the whole, I really liked it. The first chapter was filled with beautiful description (that I used to wish I could write), but I found myself skipping over it to get to the plot. Once Abby started meeting the other characters, though, I was drawn right in. The mystery was believable, I would want to hang out with the characters (which is very important to me when I read), and the whole feel was cozy. It was exactly what I was in the mood to read.
August 29, 2017
You'll buy the second to find out what's next.
I gave it a four even though the book contains many editing errors and awkward turns of phrase because the author manages to make you care about the characters and what happens to them. Plotting is smooth, advances the story well. The ending could have been improved. It wasn't disappointing but would benefit by stronger wrap up. Her teaser for the second book is excellent.☺
I gave it a four even though the book contains many editing errors and awkward turns of phrase because the author manages to make you care about the characters and what happens to them. Plotting is smooth, advances the story well. The ending could have been improved. It wasn't disappointing but would benefit by stronger wrap up. Her teaser for the second book is excellent.☺
September 22, 2018
Red Pines Fall, a small town, murder still happens, moving, having too many memories of Danny. The house,had a deck that wrapped around, and as though it too wrapped around her, welcoming her soul. Her husband’s grandmother Hazel hearing her, and welcomes her. The people and town are nice and cozy. The type of story you sit back, and watch it unfold. A little mystery, a little romance, and enjoyable to read.
May 29, 2019
Killer wine
I enjoyed this cosy mystery. I love Oregon so the backdrop was great. Is there really a small island that you based the Morgan house ? Nice read.Wish that it was a little more complicated do we doing have known who the killer was so early in the book. But I still could have gotten the wrong answer but I didnt. Knew right way but took awhile to know the reason why.
I enjoyed this cosy mystery. I love Oregon so the backdrop was great. Is there really a small island that you based the Morgan house ? Nice read.Wish that it was a little more complicated do we doing have known who the killer was so early in the book. But I still could have gotten the wrong answer but I didnt. Knew right way but took awhile to know the reason why.
October 30, 2019
I enjoyed reading this cozy mystery about Abby Morgan going to live with her husband's grandmother, Hazel across the country after her husband dies to start moving forward in her life. She meets a new friend, Becky Northridge that runs a small cafe and shortly after a murder happens to mean developer named Craig Malcolm that a lot of people hated. There is also a possible romance in the future with a ranger named Gabe. Looking forward to the next book.
May 17, 2018
Hot tea and cold murder
I just finished reading this book and really enjoyed it. I found myself wanting to know more about the characters and I am looking forward to reading more in the series. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes mysteries and is looking for a quick , easy and entertaining read.
I just finished reading this book and really enjoyed it. I found myself wanting to know more about the characters and I am looking forward to reading more in the series. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes mysteries and is looking for a quick , easy and entertaining read.
June 22, 2018
Food, wine and mushrooms
Solid book. Abby comes to her grandmother's to try and get over the death of her husband. She is plunged into a mystery. Who killed him and why?
The characters are okay but a bit too Hill Billy. The dog is great. The plot works well until the end. The final reveal is a bit of a let down. There's no tension just the reveal. Disappointing.
Solid book. Abby comes to her grandmother's to try and get over the death of her husband. She is plunged into a mystery. Who killed him and why?
The characters are okay but a bit too Hill Billy. The dog is great. The plot works well until the end. The final reveal is a bit of a let down. There's no tension just the reveal. Disappointing.
September 29, 2018
Tea and cold murder
I like cozy Mysteries and this one is different than most of the other ones it's not somebody who owns a bakery and falls in love with the sheriff. This one sounds a little more real because she's had heartache in her life and is now trying to overcome it I enjoyed the book
I like cozy Mysteries and this one is different than most of the other ones it's not somebody who owns a bakery and falls in love with the sheriff. This one sounds a little more real because she's had heartache in her life and is now trying to overcome it I enjoyed the book
June 28, 2017
Loved it. Want more.😀
Held my interest from page 1. Has everything needed in a cozy mystery. The new girl in town, a handsome Park Ranger, a best friend, a small town with quirky small town folk and of course the murder of the most hated resident. What more do you need ?
Held my interest from page 1. Has everything needed in a cozy mystery. The new girl in town, a handsome Park Ranger, a best friend, a small town with quirky small town folk and of course the murder of the most hated resident. What more do you need ?
July 24, 2017
Really good book
Like this book and the characters a lot. Abby is a very likeable character. You heart goes out to her and everything she has been through. Starting over isn't always easy, but have family and finding friends helps.
Like this book and the characters a lot. Abby is a very likeable character. You heart goes out to her and everything she has been through. Starting over isn't always easy, but have family and finding friends helps.
August 9, 2017
Much better than expected
Whenever anything starts right after a death, I feel forced into caring about the character, and its very off-putting. This struck a good balance, and Abby wasn't defined by one incident, but rather a fully developed character.
Whenever anything starts right after a death, I feel forced into caring about the character, and its very off-putting. This struck a good balance, and Abby wasn't defined by one incident, but rather a fully developed character.
September 25, 2017
Before I begin my review let me say that I did enjoy this book but will I continue to read the series . . . Maybe! The author provides likable characters that are possible but lacks the ability to provide intrigue to guess who and why the murder was committed. The explanation given for the reason to kill a person was a "tree!" Why?
November 7, 2017
Awesome Read!
As a Texan that recently moved to the Pacific North west, I agree with the location! This was a really good book to read. Loved the characters, and the writing was entertaining. Really looking forward to the next book! A great book for all ages. Awesome job!
As a Texan that recently moved to the Pacific North west, I agree with the location! This was a really good book to read. Loved the characters, and the writing was entertaining. Really looking forward to the next book! A great book for all ages. Awesome job!
September 21, 2018
Mushroom dejoure
Try as I might I can't really describe this book. Yes I'ts a mystery and yes a murder happens. But other than that you must read for yourself to find out what to make of this book.
Try as I might I can't really describe this book. Yes I'ts a mystery and yes a murder happens. But other than that you must read for yourself to find out what to make of this book.
September 23, 2018
I loved it
Very professionally written and proofread.
Good story. Kept my attention the whole way through. Has lots of unexpected twists and turns.
I can give my personal recommendation and hope to be able to read the next book.
Very professionally written and proofread.
Good story. Kept my attention the whole way through. Has lots of unexpected twists and turns.
I can give my personal recommendation and hope to be able to read the next book.
January 26, 2019
A decent little mystery...
This was a solid introduction to a new series. The characters were well fleshed out and the mystery was solid if a bit perdictable. The excerpt for the next book seemed interesting though and I'll probably get it some day out of curiosity.
This was a solid introduction to a new series. The characters were well fleshed out and the mystery was solid if a bit perdictable. The excerpt for the next book seemed interesting though and I'll probably get it some day out of curiosity.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews