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A Callie's Kitchen Mystery #3
Secrets and Pies
If you can’t stand the heat, get out of Callie’s Kitchen! Greek-American restaurateur Callie Costas faces down another killer in picturesque Crystal Bay, Wisconsin.
Summertime in Crystal Bay means tourist season for Calliope “Callie” Costas, owner of Callie’s Kitchen, a Greek-meets-Midwest from-scratch eatery. Business is booming but so is the stress. Callie can barely keep up with the demand for her famous summer fruit pies and savory Greek delicacies, plus she’s agreed to bake dozens of “pitas” for the annual Greek Fest.
When Callie is asked to deliver cast party treats for a Murder Mystery Night at the historic Harris House, it seems like a welcome break from her hot stove. That is, until she finds herself an unwilling player in yet another suspicious death. Worse yet, the victim is a family friend and graduate student working on a project involving Crystal Bay’s colorful past.
Before long, a motley crew of suspects makes things as juicy as the succulent berries strewn around Callie’s Kitchen. And that’s not all Callie’s got on her plate. Add family obligations, a deepening romance with a local detective and unexpected personnel problems to the mix.
One thing’s for sure: Callie’s got the recipe for a long, hot summer!
Summertime in Crystal Bay means tourist season for Calliope “Callie” Costas, owner of Callie’s Kitchen, a Greek-meets-Midwest from-scratch eatery. Business is booming but so is the stress. Callie can barely keep up with the demand for her famous summer fruit pies and savory Greek delicacies, plus she’s agreed to bake dozens of “pitas” for the annual Greek Fest.
When Callie is asked to deliver cast party treats for a Murder Mystery Night at the historic Harris House, it seems like a welcome break from her hot stove. That is, until she finds herself an unwilling player in yet another suspicious death. Worse yet, the victim is a family friend and graduate student working on a project involving Crystal Bay’s colorful past.
Before long, a motley crew of suspects makes things as juicy as the succulent berries strewn around Callie’s Kitchen. And that’s not all Callie’s got on her plate. Add family obligations, a deepening romance with a local detective and unexpected personnel problems to the mix.
One thing’s for sure: Callie’s got the recipe for a long, hot summer!
245 pages, Paperback
First published October 19, 2017
213 people are currently reading
778 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Kales
8 books284 followersJenny Kales is the author of The Callie's Kitchen Mystery series.
Kales is an avid reader, cook and baker and she's addicted to mystery TV, especially anything on Masterpiece Mystery or BBC America. She lives in the Midwest, is the mother of two beautiful daughters, and is hard at work on her next book, including a new mystery series and other projects.
You can follow her on Facebook at Jenny Kales Author and on Instagram at Jenny Kales_Author.
Kales is an avid reader, cook and baker and she's addicted to mystery TV, especially anything on Masterpiece Mystery or BBC America. She lives in the Midwest, is the mother of two beautiful daughters, and is hard at work on her next book, including a new mystery series and other projects.
You can follow her on Facebook at Jenny Kales Author and on Instagram at Jenny Kales_Author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
October 27, 2017
The two things you can be sure of when you read SECRETS AND PIES by author Jenny Kales? A clever mystery, and a growling stomach.
Every word of this delicious mystery was a delight to read. I just couldn’t get enough. I was swiping the pages of my Kindle so fast, I’m surprised the screen doesn’t have an indent from my finger!
SECRETS AND PIES was a fast paced tale blessed with some of the most eclectic characters I’ve read in a cozy. The way author Kales describes her characters made me feel as though I was in the story with them. I could hear their voices as I read their lines. When I finished, I was left with the feeling that I had just paid a visit to good friends.
The mystery is this book was wonderful. It’s clear the author really thought everything through. She had me looking this way and that, suspecting every new character that was introduced to the story. It was to no avail. I never guessed whodunit. When I read the reveal, I was so shocked. Once again I had been outsmarted by a first class writer. Brava, Ms, Kales!
It’s no secret. You’re going to be flakey for, SECRETS AND PIES.
Every word of this delicious mystery was a delight to read. I just couldn’t get enough. I was swiping the pages of my Kindle so fast, I’m surprised the screen doesn’t have an indent from my finger!
SECRETS AND PIES was a fast paced tale blessed with some of the most eclectic characters I’ve read in a cozy. The way author Kales describes her characters made me feel as though I was in the story with them. I could hear their voices as I read their lines. When I finished, I was left with the feeling that I had just paid a visit to good friends.
The mystery is this book was wonderful. It’s clear the author really thought everything through. She had me looking this way and that, suspecting every new character that was introduced to the story. It was to no avail. I never guessed whodunit. When I read the reveal, I was so shocked. Once again I had been outsmarted by a first class writer. Brava, Ms, Kales!
It’s no secret. You’re going to be flakey for, SECRETS AND PIES.
October 11, 2017
Last Friday I read Jenny Kales upcoming cozy mystery Secrets and Pies! This is the third book in the Callie's Kitchen Mystery and It is coming out on August 19th! Thrilled to have had it to read early and so much I wish I could share with you! But I promise no spoilers, we do however get to know Callie and her staff member Max this time around. I also loved the setting in this story! I think you will too. The mystery is a strong one and I did not have it figured out until the reveal and I hope it is the same for you. I love a good mystery that I don't have figured out don't you?
Secrets and Pies has some great recipes and is a truly cozy lovers delight!
Secrets and Pies has some great recipes and is a truly cozy lovers delight!
September 29, 2017
Summer is in full swing in Crystal Bay, Wisconsin, and eatery owner Callie Costas is juggling a mélange of tasks. Between serving treats at a murder mystery dinner, baking for a local Chamber event, and trying to steal a bit of quality time with her detective boyfriend, Callie’s skills are being put to the test. But when she stumbles over the body of her daughter’s teacher, she’ll have to do more than multi-task to put a killer on the shelf for good. Smooth dialogue, delightfully funky characters, and mouth-watering recipes make this cozy mystery the hit of the summer scene!
June 16, 2018
I really loved this latest book in the series! Callie and Ian are in a good place with their relationship, Callie's pretty much come to terms with her ex and his new wife living a couple blocks away and once again, you can see just what awesome family ties there are in this series, not only with actual family but employees as well.
It was summer in Crystal Bay and business was booming for Callie's Kitchen. Callie was involved making tons of food for the annual Greek Fest as well as handling concessions that her grandma Viv got her involved in for the Chamber of Commerce's Beats by the Bay, a summer concert series. When Callie found a friend dead at an old house, she was devastated as was Olivia who made her mom promise to find the killer. This time Callie got Max to help her do some investigating which was almost as funny as when she went with her grandma in the first book. Max was having some personal issues and had to give Callie some bad news. George came in to help with the huge amounts of customers they'd been getting. Callie's investigating nearly got her killed (again) but thanks to long-ago bootleggers she got the situation well in hand! The showdown with the killer was tense for awhile though! I had definitely not seen that person coming.
Everything worked out great, the ending was wrapped up nicely and Callie got a very nice surprise as well. I'll leave it at that and you'll just have to read it to find out! ;) I'm so anxious for the next book to come out! I've really grown close to all these characters, who could not love George, the old teddy bear, who loves his daughter and granddaughter like crazy. His relationship started in the previous book seemed to be going well and I was glad everyone was on board with that. Sweetie was mentioned but I'm still hoping she pops up in another book (see book two if you don't know who Sweetie is) I had to leave Crystal Bay pretty reluctantly knowing there isn't yet a book to follow but I am sure there will be, hopefully soon.
It was summer in Crystal Bay and business was booming for Callie's Kitchen. Callie was involved making tons of food for the annual Greek Fest as well as handling concessions that her grandma Viv got her involved in for the Chamber of Commerce's Beats by the Bay, a summer concert series. When Callie found a friend dead at an old house, she was devastated as was Olivia who made her mom promise to find the killer. This time Callie got Max to help her do some investigating which was almost as funny as when she went with her grandma in the first book. Max was having some personal issues and had to give Callie some bad news. George came in to help with the huge amounts of customers they'd been getting. Callie's investigating nearly got her killed (again) but thanks to long-ago bootleggers she got the situation well in hand! The showdown with the killer was tense for awhile though! I had definitely not seen that person coming.
Everything worked out great, the ending was wrapped up nicely and Callie got a very nice surprise as well. I'll leave it at that and you'll just have to read it to find out! ;) I'm so anxious for the next book to come out! I've really grown close to all these characters, who could not love George, the old teddy bear, who loves his daughter and granddaughter like crazy. His relationship started in the previous book seemed to be going well and I was glad everyone was on board with that. Sweetie was mentioned but I'm still hoping she pops up in another book (see book two if you don't know who Sweetie is) I had to leave Crystal Bay pretty reluctantly knowing there isn't yet a book to follow but I am sure there will be, hopefully soon.
November 11, 2017
“Secrets and Pies” earns 5+/5 Greek Delights…and Murderous Fun!
I was lucky to get in on the ground floor of this delightful third book in Jenny Kales’ Callie’s Kitchen Mystery series. Jenny has penned another exciting adventure starting with Callie enjoying her popularity, but she just can't say no to a request for her delicious Greek treats, especially from her daughter’s teacher who wants to treat the cast of a murder mystery play at The Harris House. She’s invited to stay for the play and enjoys a much needed relaxing time with boyfriend Sands, Grandma Viv, and her BFF Samantha. Then Jenny throws in a big twist to get the adventure started! The next day Callie agrees to meet her ex-husband at an upcoming restoration site to pick up their daughter Olivia. Arriving before him, she can’t contain her curiosity about this once marvelous mansion on the lake and decides to take a personal, albeit unauthorized, tour. The unlocked door provides entrance and curious footprints are seen on the dusty floor, but outside in the garden she imagines how beautiful this estate must have been in its hay day…well, sans the dead body in the weeds.
Whew! I loved it, and couldn’t put it down. Her daughter’s teacher has been strangled, and the rest of the mystery is riddled with more than a few motives, suspects with and without verifiable alibis (some too close to home), and then an additional victim. Of course finding the body is always looked at with suspicion by law enforcement, but Callie just can’t say no to the pleas from her daughter to find the killer of her favorite teacher…enter, boyfriend Detective Ian Sands. It is his job, not Callie’s, but Jenny shows our character has much to offer in strength and intelligence with her witnessing arguments, discovering additional motives, devising possible scenarios, and even falling prey to the killer’s attempt to stay undiscovered. But the mystery is not all that makes this a great story. Jenny provides a myriad of events that enrich, maybe frustrate Callie’s world: exploring the dynamic between her and her father who himself owns a popular restaurant, her friendship with her grandmother Viv, the dilemma her right-hand employee Max is dealing with that might have him leaving her employment to help his father on the family farm, and the frustration and worry as substitutes take over in her kitchen. Jenny brings readers a tangible experience with Callie’s kitchen with recipes several Greek delicacies.
“Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. However, all of the above opinions are my own.”
I was lucky to get in on the ground floor of this delightful third book in Jenny Kales’ Callie’s Kitchen Mystery series. Jenny has penned another exciting adventure starting with Callie enjoying her popularity, but she just can't say no to a request for her delicious Greek treats, especially from her daughter’s teacher who wants to treat the cast of a murder mystery play at The Harris House. She’s invited to stay for the play and enjoys a much needed relaxing time with boyfriend Sands, Grandma Viv, and her BFF Samantha. Then Jenny throws in a big twist to get the adventure started! The next day Callie agrees to meet her ex-husband at an upcoming restoration site to pick up their daughter Olivia. Arriving before him, she can’t contain her curiosity about this once marvelous mansion on the lake and decides to take a personal, albeit unauthorized, tour. The unlocked door provides entrance and curious footprints are seen on the dusty floor, but outside in the garden she imagines how beautiful this estate must have been in its hay day…well, sans the dead body in the weeds.
Whew! I loved it, and couldn’t put it down. Her daughter’s teacher has been strangled, and the rest of the mystery is riddled with more than a few motives, suspects with and without verifiable alibis (some too close to home), and then an additional victim. Of course finding the body is always looked at with suspicion by law enforcement, but Callie just can’t say no to the pleas from her daughter to find the killer of her favorite teacher…enter, boyfriend Detective Ian Sands. It is his job, not Callie’s, but Jenny shows our character has much to offer in strength and intelligence with her witnessing arguments, discovering additional motives, devising possible scenarios, and even falling prey to the killer’s attempt to stay undiscovered. But the mystery is not all that makes this a great story. Jenny provides a myriad of events that enrich, maybe frustrate Callie’s world: exploring the dynamic between her and her father who himself owns a popular restaurant, her friendship with her grandmother Viv, the dilemma her right-hand employee Max is dealing with that might have him leaving her employment to help his father on the family farm, and the frustration and worry as substitutes take over in her kitchen. Jenny brings readers a tangible experience with Callie’s kitchen with recipes several Greek delicacies.
“Disclosure: A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. However, all of the above opinions are my own.”
February 14, 2018
4 stelle e mezza
Buon libro, con una bella storia. L'unico neo è il continuo parlare di cibo: mi è venuta voglia di andare in un ristorante greco per provare alcuni dei piatti citati! Sempre che riesca a pronunciare i loro nomi...
Buon libro, con una bella storia. L'unico neo è il continuo parlare di cibo: mi è venuta voglia di andare in un ristorante greco per provare alcuni dei piatti citati! Sempre che riesca a pronunciare i loro nomi...
October 16, 2024
I love how Kales finds clever ways for Callie to end up knee deep in murder investigations. This series just works so well for me.
A 1920’s themed Murder Mystery Night delivers exactly what it says it will … a murder mystery. This time Callie finds herself getting involved because the victim is a family friend. I enjoyed seeing her getting bolder with her snooping 😂
The relationships continue to grow and I adore all the characters in this series. I wouldn’t mind getting some novellas or spin offs for some of them. Max being a fast favorite of mine!
This was the perfect addition! I don’t want the series to end.
A 1920’s themed Murder Mystery Night delivers exactly what it says it will … a murder mystery. This time Callie finds herself getting involved because the victim is a family friend. I enjoyed seeing her getting bolder with her snooping 😂
The relationships continue to grow and I adore all the characters in this series. I wouldn’t mind getting some novellas or spin offs for some of them. Max being a fast favorite of mine!
This was the perfect addition! I don’t want the series to end.
November 6, 2017
You can read all of my reviews on my blog at
That's What She's Reading
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest and thoughtful review.
Callie's Kitchen mysteries is another series that I happened to stumble across without having read the first two books. However, this book was so well written with such intriguing and developed characters that I never felt like I was missing anything. Now, I'm looking forward to adding the previous books to my TBR!
One of the highlights of the story for me was how much I absolutely loved the settings! From the picturesque vacation spot of Crystal Bay to the mysterious Harris House, I was captivated by this community and can't wait to visit again when I read more. Even being in the kitchen brought so much energy! The author beautifully showcased the inner workings of running a restaurant, while also crafting an incredibly believable amateur sleuth. Additionally, the flowing dialogue between characters added such great dynamics to both Callie's personal and professional lives that you truly could feel as though you were also a part of this lovely group of people.
The mystery is riddled with various motives and suspects with very few clues being revealed as the story unfolds, ultimately creating a well layered and plotted mystery that has to be read to the end in order to find out who the killer is. As an English major myself, I really appreciated the inclusion of the F. Scott Fitzgerald thesis and Gilded Age themes which enhanced the suspense and created a multifaceted story that is a cut above the more traditional cozy mysteries.
A huge highlight of this book as a fan of Greek cuisine was reading about all the foods served at Callie's Kitchen. Everything sounded so delectable that you'll definitely want to have some snacks nearby while reading this to keep your stomach from grumbling too much! And this foodie definitely appreciated the provided recipes featured at the end of the book. Perhaps I'll find some time to try some of them out and report back on how successful the recreation turned out to be!
I'm so glad that I discovered this series and highly recommend it if you're a fan of cozy culinary mysteries. I definitely look forward to returning to Crystal Bay in order to experience more adventures with Callie at her cafe.
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest and thoughtful review.
Callie's Kitchen mysteries is another series that I happened to stumble across without having read the first two books. However, this book was so well written with such intriguing and developed characters that I never felt like I was missing anything. Now, I'm looking forward to adding the previous books to my TBR!
One of the highlights of the story for me was how much I absolutely loved the settings! From the picturesque vacation spot of Crystal Bay to the mysterious Harris House, I was captivated by this community and can't wait to visit again when I read more. Even being in the kitchen brought so much energy! The author beautifully showcased the inner workings of running a restaurant, while also crafting an incredibly believable amateur sleuth. Additionally, the flowing dialogue between characters added such great dynamics to both Callie's personal and professional lives that you truly could feel as though you were also a part of this lovely group of people.
The mystery is riddled with various motives and suspects with very few clues being revealed as the story unfolds, ultimately creating a well layered and plotted mystery that has to be read to the end in order to find out who the killer is. As an English major myself, I really appreciated the inclusion of the F. Scott Fitzgerald thesis and Gilded Age themes which enhanced the suspense and created a multifaceted story that is a cut above the more traditional cozy mysteries.
A huge highlight of this book as a fan of Greek cuisine was reading about all the foods served at Callie's Kitchen. Everything sounded so delectable that you'll definitely want to have some snacks nearby while reading this to keep your stomach from grumbling too much! And this foodie definitely appreciated the provided recipes featured at the end of the book. Perhaps I'll find some time to try some of them out and report back on how successful the recreation turned out to be!
I'm so glad that I discovered this series and highly recommend it if you're a fan of cozy culinary mysteries. I definitely look forward to returning to Crystal Bay in order to experience more adventures with Callie at her cafe.
August 25, 2023
Secrets and Pies, the third book in Jenny Kales’s Callie’s Kitchen Mystery series, is as bright and relaxing as a summer day. With a town as charming as Crystal Bay, it’s hard to believe that there could be much crime. But murder is definitely on the menu in this entertaining tale.
It’s summertime, and Callie Costas is busy making pies and pastries for the upcoming annual Crystal Bay Greek Festival. As a side gig, she is also providing sweet treats to a local theatre troupe’s murder mystery dinner held at the grand and mysterious Harris House. Yet it is clear that trouble is brewing when Callie discovers one of the actresses dead at a vacant house. Equally worrisome, the victim also happens to be Callie’s daughter Olivia’s teacher, and Callie vows to solve the crime to bring closure to Olivia.
This story has all the ingredients of a delightful cozy mystery. Callie doesn’t have to look far to see a plethora of suspects, both within and outside the acting troupe. Clues pop up randomly, interspersed with red herrings, giving Callie a lot to uncover. Callie is bright, inquisitive, and forthright, and her dedication to unmasking the killer to keep a promise to her daughter is admirable. The subplot involving her employee, Max, brings a personal touch that really enhances the action. And it’s always a treat when Callie gets a few minutes to sneak away with her boyfriend, Detective Sands. What also is worth mentioning is the congenial relationship Callie shares with her ex-husband and his new wife. It is refreshing to see ex-spouses getting along instead of constantly fighting. And be sure to read the author’s note at the end of the book. It provides some fantastic context in the story.
With lovable characters, a picturesque setting, and a carefully crafted mystery, Secrets and Lies is the perfect cozy beach read.
It’s summertime, and Callie Costas is busy making pies and pastries for the upcoming annual Crystal Bay Greek Festival. As a side gig, she is also providing sweet treats to a local theatre troupe’s murder mystery dinner held at the grand and mysterious Harris House. Yet it is clear that trouble is brewing when Callie discovers one of the actresses dead at a vacant house. Equally worrisome, the victim also happens to be Callie’s daughter Olivia’s teacher, and Callie vows to solve the crime to bring closure to Olivia.
This story has all the ingredients of a delightful cozy mystery. Callie doesn’t have to look far to see a plethora of suspects, both within and outside the acting troupe. Clues pop up randomly, interspersed with red herrings, giving Callie a lot to uncover. Callie is bright, inquisitive, and forthright, and her dedication to unmasking the killer to keep a promise to her daughter is admirable. The subplot involving her employee, Max, brings a personal touch that really enhances the action. And it’s always a treat when Callie gets a few minutes to sneak away with her boyfriend, Detective Sands. What also is worth mentioning is the congenial relationship Callie shares with her ex-husband and his new wife. It is refreshing to see ex-spouses getting along instead of constantly fighting. And be sure to read the author’s note at the end of the book. It provides some fantastic context in the story.
With lovable characters, a picturesque setting, and a carefully crafted mystery, Secrets and Lies is the perfect cozy beach read.
October 14, 2017
This is the third book in a very entertaining cozy mystery series. Set in the Midwest, this series centers around Callie Costas, the owner of Callie's Kitchen in Crystal Bay Wisconsin. I love the combination of the focus on family and food. Like the Greeks, family and food is a common thread for Italians so there is a sense of familiarity when I read these stories.
This is a terrific series that is filled with wonderful characters and has a great sense of family and food. The setting is charming and adds to the atmosphere of story. The mystery is well plotted with plenty of distractions, clues, twist and turns to keep the reader engaged and guessing. I will definitely be back to Crystal Bay for Callie's next adventure.
A full review will be posted on my blog on October 18th.
I was provided an advanced reader copy of this book by the author.
This is a terrific series that is filled with wonderful characters and has a great sense of family and food. The setting is charming and adds to the atmosphere of story. The mystery is well plotted with plenty of distractions, clues, twist and turns to keep the reader engaged and guessing. I will definitely be back to Crystal Bay for Callie's next adventure.
A full review will be posted on my blog on October 18th.
I was provided an advanced reader copy of this book by the author.
February 25, 2018
This is book 3 in the Callie's Kitchen mystery series and was very easy to read even though I didn't read the first two stories. Callie is a super busy baker/caterer who is in a relationship with the local police detective Sands and is instrumental in helping him solve some murders in Crystal Bay, Wisconsin. Spring has the tourists starting to return and Callie discovers the body of her friend in the yard of an old home. A good mystery and Callie seems to be a level headed woman who can balance a business, a boyfriend, an ex-husband and her 7 year old daughter. Enjoyable and fun read.
September 27, 2017
SECRETS AND PIES, the long anticipated third release in author Jenny Kales’ Callie’s Kitchen Cozy Mystery series, lived up to and even exceeded my expectation! The adorable cover is filled with mouth-watering pies and invites you in and then the story grabs your attention, giving the reader a twisty, turvey ride. The protagonist, Callie Costas, is finding her stride and her life seems to be finally falling into place. Her relationship with Detective Sands is moving forward, her daughter is a delight, and her father has finally acknowledged her need to run her own restaurant. She’s even coming to terms with her ex-husband and his new wife living close by. But life is never static and Callie finds herself stressed by the amount of special events her kitchen needs to cater along with unforeseen personnel issues. When she finds a lifeless body in the garden of a lakeside Gilded Age home that her ex-husband is supposed to renovate, her mettle is put to the test.
The author effectively weaves the theme of F. Scott Fitzgerald and the Gilded Age throughout the book. I loved her description of the majestic mansions doting the lake around Crystal Bay, and the provided bits and pieces of history of that era. I also enjoy the photos that the author occasionally posts on Facebook of the real Lake Geneva in Wisconsin, of which she uses as inspiration for her fictional town. I’ll admit I thought I knew where the plot was going early on in the story but was totally thrown for a loop by the twist the story took. It kept me turning pages, wanting to find out how the mystery was going to be resolved. The conclusion provided a suspense scene that helped tie the threads together into a satisfying cozy mystery.
Callie bakes up so many amazing treats in her kitchen that you’ll drool while reading. Ms. Kales provides several mouthwatering recipes that you will definitely want to try out!
I was provided an advance copy with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The author effectively weaves the theme of F. Scott Fitzgerald and the Gilded Age throughout the book. I loved her description of the majestic mansions doting the lake around Crystal Bay, and the provided bits and pieces of history of that era. I also enjoy the photos that the author occasionally posts on Facebook of the real Lake Geneva in Wisconsin, of which she uses as inspiration for her fictional town. I’ll admit I thought I knew where the plot was going early on in the story but was totally thrown for a loop by the twist the story took. It kept me turning pages, wanting to find out how the mystery was going to be resolved. The conclusion provided a suspense scene that helped tie the threads together into a satisfying cozy mystery.
Callie bakes up so many amazing treats in her kitchen that you’ll drool while reading. Ms. Kales provides several mouthwatering recipes that you will definitely want to try out!
I was provided an advance copy with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 25, 2020
A cute story but I found the main character -- Callie -- a little annoying because in spite of putting herself in danger and encroaching on a police investigation, she can't stop poking around and the logic (or lack ) she uses to rationalize her behavior is laughable!
November 8, 2020
It's all Greek
A wonderful culinary cozy mystery featuring Greek foods and recipes. A very strong plot and interwoven sub plots. Good characters complete the all around good book!
A wonderful culinary cozy mystery featuring Greek foods and recipes. A very strong plot and interwoven sub plots. Good characters complete the all around good book!
May 10, 2019
I enjoyed this third in the series, and if you haven't read the other books I don't think that you would have a problem reading this as a stand alone. Ms. Kales has developed some strong characters and a strong sense of family, and is easy to get invested in the story.
Callie is providing treats for a murder mystery show, on top of that she is providing food for an upcoming Greek Festival, add food for a music in the park and Callie is cooking nonstop. When she finds the body of a friend she and her daughter are devastated. When suspects start accumulating one being her ex husband, Callie is at wits end.
The mystery was excellent and kept me guessing until the end and tied up nicely. I will continue on with the series.
An added bonus of some wonderful sounding recipes is included in the back.
Callie is providing treats for a murder mystery show, on top of that she is providing food for an upcoming Greek Festival, add food for a music in the park and Callie is cooking nonstop. When she finds the body of a friend she and her daughter are devastated. When suspects start accumulating one being her ex husband, Callie is at wits end.
The mystery was excellent and kept me guessing until the end and tied up nicely. I will continue on with the series.
An added bonus of some wonderful sounding recipes is included in the back.
October 23, 2017
Secrets and Pies is book three in The Callie's Kitchen mystery series. I'm jumping head first into this series and I'm loving it. I'm also going to be going back and reading the first two books "On The Chopping Block" and "Spiced and Iced"
When Callie was at the murder mystery dinner, she encountered her ex's new wife Raine, and Raine's actions reminded me of Barbara Jean on Reba. She seemed to want to be friends
I also love that the family is Greek, because one of my favorite cozy series, Sofie Metropolis, is about a Greek family. Oh and all the descriptions of Greek food made me so hungry. If you can finish this book without wanted some spanikopita, you'll have more willpower than I.
When Callie finds her daughter's favorite teacher dead, while waiting for her ex to drop Olivia off. Things start to get interesting. Then her right hand man in her restaurant, Max, has to return to the family farm to help his injured father.
Callie keeps herself busy working for Crystal Bay's concert series and for a church festival. She's up to her neck in goodies while trying to find out who killed Holly.
There's also an interesting subplot involving Holly's research for Grad school and F. Scott Fitzgerald and the Gilded Age homes on the lake.
This was a fast paced mystery, with Callie having to do an awful lot along with trying to solve the murder. The ending was such a surprise to me too. I love when mystery author can point you in one direction for a killer and then bring someone totally out of left field. This was a great cozy.
When Callie was at the murder mystery dinner, she encountered her ex's new wife Raine, and Raine's actions reminded me of Barbara Jean on Reba. She seemed to want to be friends
I also love that the family is Greek, because one of my favorite cozy series, Sofie Metropolis, is about a Greek family. Oh and all the descriptions of Greek food made me so hungry. If you can finish this book without wanted some spanikopita, you'll have more willpower than I.
When Callie finds her daughter's favorite teacher dead, while waiting for her ex to drop Olivia off. Things start to get interesting. Then her right hand man in her restaurant, Max, has to return to the family farm to help his injured father.
Callie keeps herself busy working for Crystal Bay's concert series and for a church festival. She's up to her neck in goodies while trying to find out who killed Holly.
There's also an interesting subplot involving Holly's research for Grad school and F. Scott Fitzgerald and the Gilded Age homes on the lake.
This was a fast paced mystery, with Callie having to do an awful lot along with trying to solve the murder. The ending was such a surprise to me too. I love when mystery author can point you in one direction for a killer and then bring someone totally out of left field. This was a great cozy.
October 24, 2017
I am coming into this series a bit late but never felt lost. Perhaps I am a little biased, as I love books set in "my" Midwest and adore cozy mysteries. Amateur sleuths don't have to play by the same rules as official police. Often they are more motivated to discover the truth, not just close the case.
For Callie, this murder hits too close to home. Not only is the first victim her daughter's favorite teacher, it turns out there are more connections, not just that Callie discovered the body.
As if Callie doesn't have her hands full baking for several special events, raising her daughter and trying to spend time with a dashing detective, who is quite busy himself. When best employee and friend Max tells her he is needed back on his father's farm, it's enough to drive anyone crazy.
I love so much about this book - theatre, old houses with secret areas, and especially the support of good friends. It is a delicious addition to the cozy mystery genre. I can't wait to settle in with other books in this series.
For Callie, this murder hits too close to home. Not only is the first victim her daughter's favorite teacher, it turns out there are more connections, not just that Callie discovered the body.
As if Callie doesn't have her hands full baking for several special events, raising her daughter and trying to spend time with a dashing detective, who is quite busy himself. When best employee and friend Max tells her he is needed back on his father's farm, it's enough to drive anyone crazy.
I love so much about this book - theatre, old houses with secret areas, and especially the support of good friends. It is a delicious addition to the cozy mystery genre. I can't wait to settle in with other books in this series.
October 30, 2017
Jenny Kales has done it again with a kick ass protagonist and some murderous goings on in her fictional Crystal Bay, Wisconsin. Kales' protagonist, Callie Costas, finds herself knee deep in a murder investigation involving a local amateur actress, all while trying to balance the demands of her business Callie's Kitchen and her role as a daughter, mom, and the girlfriend of the hunky Detective Ian Sands.
I love Callie and the relationships she has with the people around her. I also like how Kales captures the nuances and quirks of a small town. This is a fast and fun read. (Bonus: Kales includes recipes in the back. And they are alllllll good.)
I love Callie and the relationships she has with the people around her. I also like how Kales captures the nuances and quirks of a small town. This is a fast and fun read. (Bonus: Kales includes recipes in the back. And they are alllllll good.)
February 26, 2021
I really love this series and the food which sounds time consuming sounds amazing. I love Callie her love interest Sands and Max and George Callie's Dad who interferes but shows his love all the time. Also all the side characters that just make this book even better. The story line was really good and kept me guessing for a long time who did it and the reason I didn't guess at all. A really great read.
October 24, 2017
Wow, what a mystery for Callie. I feel like each book in this series grows in the level of awesomeness. Okay, I personally was sad that a teacher was killed, but like always there is usually a good reason to that happening or at least that is how a killer thinks. I really enjoyed seeing the relationships in Callie's life grow as well, it is like we are all settling in for a great and long series that will never be dropped by this reader.
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Review: https://bibliophile.reviews/book-revi...
February 2, 2018
This series has quickly become one of my faves, and I'm sad that I'm all caught up and have to wait for the next release, lol! As usual, author Jenny Kales weaves a very cozy and comforting story and makes me want to move to Wisconsin! Good mystery with a little bit of real history woven in, and I enjoyed the ties to the early 20th century. Well done and highly recommended!!!
October 4, 2019
What happens to holly
Truely enjoyed reading this mystery. Nice good twist at the end with recipes after the mystery. Love it. Can't wait to read the other series.
Truely enjoyed reading this mystery. Nice good twist at the end with recipes after the mystery. Love it. Can't wait to read the other series.
October 22, 2017
This is the third book in A Callie's Kitchen Mystery series. Once again Callie finds herself caught up in another unexplained death. Despite Sands, Callie's cop boyfriend's advice to not get involved, Callie is set on finding out what happened. This book is full of suspense, scrumptious Greek food and sexy men.
October 20, 2017
Too Many Cooks
Once again Callie is up to her neck in work. First there is the Greek church festival where she had promised to make authentic Greek food. Next she is roped in to Beats at the Bay by her grandmother. And last of all is murder. Without her right hand man Max in the kitchen Callie had to ask her father for help . Two Greeks in a kitchen. What could go wrong!
Once again Callie is up to her neck in work. First there is the Greek church festival where she had promised to make authentic Greek food. Next she is roped in to Beats at the Bay by her grandmother. And last of all is murder. Without her right hand man Max in the kitchen Callie had to ask her father for help . Two Greeks in a kitchen. What could go wrong!
July 11, 2023
Secrets and Pies by Jenny Kales is set during the summertime in Wisconsin. Callie has a lot on her plate and not enough time to juggle.
Will Callie let Sands solve the mystery?
Callie and Sands
Calliope "Callie" Costas is finding it hard to find time to see her boyfriend. Somehow, she is trying to make more time appear on the clock. She may have one too many beach balls up in the air that she is juggling this summer. Not only does she have to spend time with her daughter, run a business, make time for coupley things with Sands, and make a lot of pies for the Greek festival, but she also added to her list to attend a 1920s-themed Murder Mystery Night. Sounds fun, but not when Callie is involved. I love Callie's work ethic, and we find out just how much work Callie's Kitchen is when they are busy.
Ian Sands is an awesome guy who puts up a lot with Callie interfering in his case. Or at least finding evidence that he couldn't necessarily get on his own. When Ian isn't working, he makes Callie and her daughter Olivia his top priority to make sure that they are okay and if they need anything. Ian is a great guy from his descriptions and how Callie speaks of him. He keeps his attention on her if he isn't working to let her know he cares about what she has to say.
I think Callie and Ian make a terrific couple, and hopefully, we can see more things with these two.
The Mystery
On her way to pick up Olivia at a Gilded Age Mansion that Hugh will be renovating, Callie stumbles upon the body of the family friend. Callie tries not to investigate and leave that to the professionals, but sometimes she can't help the information she stumbles upon. This information could be relevant to the investigation. I have to say I got who did it, but not the motive. Ms. Kales got me. I wasn't expecting why this family friend got murdered.
Five Stars
I am giving Secrets and Pies by Jenny Kales five stars and a recommendation to read it. I loved this series from the first book I picked up to this last one. Don't forget to check out the book for her author's note and the yummy recipes! Always read this series with some yummy treats on hand, or you will be craving this food all the time.
The recipes are Greek Chicken and Lemon Soup (Avgolemono), Squash Pie (Kolokethopita), Greek Cheese Honey Pie (Melopita), Callie's Perfect Pie Crust, Callie's Sour Cherry Pie, Beats on the Bay Blueberry Pie, and Greek Rice Pudding (Rizo-galo).
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Secrets and Pies by Jenny Kales.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
Will Callie let Sands solve the mystery?
Callie and Sands
Calliope "Callie" Costas is finding it hard to find time to see her boyfriend. Somehow, she is trying to make more time appear on the clock. She may have one too many beach balls up in the air that she is juggling this summer. Not only does she have to spend time with her daughter, run a business, make time for coupley things with Sands, and make a lot of pies for the Greek festival, but she also added to her list to attend a 1920s-themed Murder Mystery Night. Sounds fun, but not when Callie is involved. I love Callie's work ethic, and we find out just how much work Callie's Kitchen is when they are busy.
Ian Sands is an awesome guy who puts up a lot with Callie interfering in his case. Or at least finding evidence that he couldn't necessarily get on his own. When Ian isn't working, he makes Callie and her daughter Olivia his top priority to make sure that they are okay and if they need anything. Ian is a great guy from his descriptions and how Callie speaks of him. He keeps his attention on her if he isn't working to let her know he cares about what she has to say.
I think Callie and Ian make a terrific couple, and hopefully, we can see more things with these two.
The Mystery
On her way to pick up Olivia at a Gilded Age Mansion that Hugh will be renovating, Callie stumbles upon the body of the family friend. Callie tries not to investigate and leave that to the professionals, but sometimes she can't help the information she stumbles upon. This information could be relevant to the investigation. I have to say I got who did it, but not the motive. Ms. Kales got me. I wasn't expecting why this family friend got murdered.
Five Stars
I am giving Secrets and Pies by Jenny Kales five stars and a recommendation to read it. I loved this series from the first book I picked up to this last one. Don't forget to check out the book for her author's note and the yummy recipes! Always read this series with some yummy treats on hand, or you will be craving this food all the time.
The recipes are Greek Chicken and Lemon Soup (Avgolemono), Squash Pie (Kolokethopita), Greek Cheese Honey Pie (Melopita), Callie's Perfect Pie Crust, Callie's Sour Cherry Pie, Beats on the Bay Blueberry Pie, and Greek Rice Pudding (Rizo-galo).
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Secrets and Pies by Jenny Kales.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
June 29, 2018
kindle unlimited, but actucally somehow got all 3 on freebie days so 'bought' that way, becuase just from the start of the story no way would I have bought bought these. Way too much housewives of {insert city etc} drama crap, supposed to be focused on the mystery story, but since didn't and the usual issues with proofing, being boring, and not really a real mystery type book, another 2.
If you can’t stand the heat, get out of Callie’s Kitchen! Greek-American restaurateur Callie Costas faces down another killer in picturesque Crystal Bay, Wisconsin.
Summertime in Crystal Bay means tourist season for Calliope “Callie” Costas, owner of Callie’s Kitchen, a Greek-meets-Midwest from-scratch eatery. Business is booming but so is the stress. Callie can barely keep up with the demand for her famous summer fruit pies and savory Greek delicacies, plus she’s agreed to bake dozens of “pitas” for the annual Greek Fest.
When Callie is asked to deliver cast party treats for a Murder Mystery Night at the historic Harris House, it seems like a welcome break from her hot stove. That is, until she finds herself an unwilling player in yet another suspicious death. Worse yet, the victim is a family friend and graduate student working on a project involving Crystal Bay’s colorful past.
Before long, a motley crew of suspects makes things as juicy as the succulent berries strewn around Callie’s Kitchen. And that’s not all Callie’s got on her plate. Add family obligations, a deepening romance with a local detective and unexpected personnel problems to the mix. One thing’s for sure: Callie’s got the recipe for a long, hot summer!
On the Chopping Block (A Callie's Kitchen Mystery, #1)
Spiced and Iced (A Callie's Kitchen Mystery #2)
Secrets and Pies (A Callie's Kitchen Mystery #3)
If you can’t stand the heat, get out of Callie’s Kitchen! Greek-American restaurateur Callie Costas faces down another killer in picturesque Crystal Bay, Wisconsin.
Summertime in Crystal Bay means tourist season for Calliope “Callie” Costas, owner of Callie’s Kitchen, a Greek-meets-Midwest from-scratch eatery. Business is booming but so is the stress. Callie can barely keep up with the demand for her famous summer fruit pies and savory Greek delicacies, plus she’s agreed to bake dozens of “pitas” for the annual Greek Fest.
When Callie is asked to deliver cast party treats for a Murder Mystery Night at the historic Harris House, it seems like a welcome break from her hot stove. That is, until she finds herself an unwilling player in yet another suspicious death. Worse yet, the victim is a family friend and graduate student working on a project involving Crystal Bay’s colorful past.
Before long, a motley crew of suspects makes things as juicy as the succulent berries strewn around Callie’s Kitchen. And that’s not all Callie’s got on her plate. Add family obligations, a deepening romance with a local detective and unexpected personnel problems to the mix. One thing’s for sure: Callie’s got the recipe for a long, hot summer!
On the Chopping Block (A Callie's Kitchen Mystery, #1)
Spiced and Iced (A Callie's Kitchen Mystery #2)
Secrets and Pies (A Callie's Kitchen Mystery #3)
January 1, 2018
I really enjoyed this story. I love cozy mysteries so I may be biased. It is set in the Midwest close to where I use to live. Every time Greek Fest was mentioned, I just wanted to be there! There was also a lot of Greek food talk which, honestly, kept me hungry. I made a few of the recipes from the back of the book though and that helped my hunger. The recipes I made were Avgolemono, Melopita and Rizogalo. Greek chicken and lemon soup, cheese honey pie and rice pudding. They were easy peasey and delicious. The Avgolemono has become a favorite.
But back to the story. This is the third book in the series but the first I read. I had no trouble at all following the story. Actually if it weren’t for references to previous murders, I might have thought it was a stand alone or first book. The mystery had some nice twists to it so it wasn’t too easy to guess at. Things flowed very nicely. I loved the characters. I felt like I was visiting with friends. I thought the author did an excellent job creating and maintaining the Greek ambience.
The only downside I had was how much I missed the Greek place, (and owner,Gina), that I use to eat lunch at in downtown Chicago. This book totally took me back there and made me ache with homesickness. I am definitely reading the first two books in this series and will be watching for the next book.
But back to the story. This is the third book in the series but the first I read. I had no trouble at all following the story. Actually if it weren’t for references to previous murders, I might have thought it was a stand alone or first book. The mystery had some nice twists to it so it wasn’t too easy to guess at. Things flowed very nicely. I loved the characters. I felt like I was visiting with friends. I thought the author did an excellent job creating and maintaining the Greek ambience.
The only downside I had was how much I missed the Greek place, (and owner,Gina), that I use to eat lunch at in downtown Chicago. This book totally took me back there and made me ache with homesickness. I am definitely reading the first two books in this series and will be watching for the next book.
January 1, 2018
Another delightful cozy mystery
This is the third book in the Callie's Kitchen series. Callie is overwhelmed with baking for the Greek festival and the town music series at the park, when she discovers a dead body at an abandoned home. The dead person is Holly, Carrie's daughter's teacher. This causes Callie to call her boyfriend the police detective and once again he is concerned about her getting involved in his cases. Callie's daughter asks her to investigate the murder so Callie feels guilty and she begins to look into the murder. At the same time that Callie is investigating the murder, she also gets bad news from Max her assistant baker. Max may have to stop working for Callie and go home to take care of the family farm due to his father's injury. Mix in Callie's grandma Viv, her dad George and her best friend Sam and you have an excellent cast of characters set in a small town with lots of quirky people. Will Callie find the murderer, will Max leave her alone when she needs him the most and will Carrie and her boyfriend further along their relationship. Also there are lots of great Greek food moments and some fun Greek words thrown in for fun. I highly recommend this book to those readers who love cozy mysteries.
This is the third book in the Callie's Kitchen series. Callie is overwhelmed with baking for the Greek festival and the town music series at the park, when she discovers a dead body at an abandoned home. The dead person is Holly, Carrie's daughter's teacher. This causes Callie to call her boyfriend the police detective and once again he is concerned about her getting involved in his cases. Callie's daughter asks her to investigate the murder so Callie feels guilty and she begins to look into the murder. At the same time that Callie is investigating the murder, she also gets bad news from Max her assistant baker. Max may have to stop working for Callie and go home to take care of the family farm due to his father's injury. Mix in Callie's grandma Viv, her dad George and her best friend Sam and you have an excellent cast of characters set in a small town with lots of quirky people. Will Callie find the murderer, will Max leave her alone when she needs him the most and will Carrie and her boyfriend further along their relationship. Also there are lots of great Greek food moments and some fun Greek words thrown in for fun. I highly recommend this book to those readers who love cozy mysteries.
April 25, 2019
It's hot in the kitchen and Callie is hot under the collar!
Callie had a lot on her plate catering wise, her father (George) needs her to make food for the Greek Fest, Mrs DeWitt (a lady people just can't say no to!) wants her to provide snacks (to be paid for, as in a concession stand) for the new Beats by the Bay music event, oh and a theatre troupe is putting on a murder mystery dinner at the Harris House hotel and Callie has been asked to provide the after show nibbles.
So far so good, only her amazing sous chef, Max, has to head back to the family farm as his father has broken his hip, his possible replacement (Josh) is very much a beginner in the kitchen and whilst George was great at teaching Callie how to cook, Josh doesn't take his instruction so well! Oh and just to add the honey to the Baklava there has been a murder, and Callie found the body which was in the grounds of a house the firm her ex-husband now works for is planning to do up, and the deceased is Olivia's favourite teacher.
Now with Sands trying to keep Callie safe (and ..... well out of his investigation), thefts, no staff and all the theatre troupe seeming shifty, can Callie see her way clear to just keep cooking?
Callie had a lot on her plate catering wise, her father (George) needs her to make food for the Greek Fest, Mrs DeWitt (a lady people just can't say no to!) wants her to provide snacks (to be paid for, as in a concession stand) for the new Beats by the Bay music event, oh and a theatre troupe is putting on a murder mystery dinner at the Harris House hotel and Callie has been asked to provide the after show nibbles.
So far so good, only her amazing sous chef, Max, has to head back to the family farm as his father has broken his hip, his possible replacement (Josh) is very much a beginner in the kitchen and whilst George was great at teaching Callie how to cook, Josh doesn't take his instruction so well! Oh and just to add the honey to the Baklava there has been a murder, and Callie found the body which was in the grounds of a house the firm her ex-husband now works for is planning to do up, and the deceased is Olivia's favourite teacher.
Now with Sands trying to keep Callie safe (and ..... well out of his investigation), thefts, no staff and all the theatre troupe seeming shifty, can Callie see her way clear to just keep cooking?
July 31, 2019
Secrets and Pies is the third book in the Callie's Kitchen Mystery series and features Callie Costa who owns Callie's Kitchen which offers delicious Greek and American foods. The story is set in the beautiful fictional town of Crystal Bay, Wisconsin. It's summertime which mean the tourist trade is booming and Callie is busy running her business and catering for a Murder Mystery night at an historic house in town. Unfortunately, while delivering her food she stumbles across a dead body. To make it even worse the victim is a friend. As the suspect list grows, Callie, to the dismay of her boyfriend and family, investigates on her own. Mix in raising her daughter, her relationship with a detective on the local force, and running her business and you have a book that you'll want to keep reading. Characters are well written and the mystery will keep you guessing. As an added bonus there are some delicious Greek recipes at the end of the book. I highly recommend this book!
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