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Bakeshop Mystery #8
Till Death Do Us Tart
Torte—the small-town bakeshop no one can resist—is hosting a midsummer night’s wedding ... where merry-making and murder are served up in equal measure.
Jules Capshaw has too much on her plate—and she’s feeling the pinch: the whole town of Ashland,Oregon, is in on the surprise Elizabethan-themed wedding she’s planning for her mom and soon-to-be stepdad. But is her secret scheme half-baked? She’s hiding racks overflowing with sweet treats while Torte is topsy-turvy with a major remodel and the return of Jules’s estranged husband, Carlos. And until now, Jules had no clue about the bitter family feud that has her friend Lance frazzled and suspicious. But when a party crasher takes someone out with a serving of poisoned wine and Jules discovers the deadly cup was intended for her, it’s time to turn the tables on a killer.
Jules Capshaw has too much on her plate—and she’s feeling the pinch: the whole town of Ashland,Oregon, is in on the surprise Elizabethan-themed wedding she’s planning for her mom and soon-to-be stepdad. But is her secret scheme half-baked? She’s hiding racks overflowing with sweet treats while Torte is topsy-turvy with a major remodel and the return of Jules’s estranged husband, Carlos. And until now, Jules had no clue about the bitter family feud that has her friend Lance frazzled and suspicious. But when a party crasher takes someone out with a serving of poisoned wine and Jules discovers the deadly cup was intended for her, it’s time to turn the tables on a killer.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2018
375 people are currently reading
1566 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Alexander
78 books3,037 followersEllie is a voracious storyteller and a lover of words and all things bookish. She believes that stories have the ability to transport and transform us. With over forty published novels and counting, her goal is to tell stories that provide points of connection, escape, and understanding.
She loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers in crafting the story they’ve always wanted to tell while navigating the path to publication that’s right for them.
Find out more about Ellie and her books by visiting her website at: http://www.elliealexander.co/ or following her on social media—
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https://www.pinterest.com/elliealexan...
She loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers in crafting the story they’ve always wanted to tell while navigating the path to publication that’s right for them.
Find out more about Ellie and her books by visiting her website at: http://www.elliealexander.co/ or following her on social media—
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellie_alexa...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elliealexande...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elliealexande...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elliealexand...
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/elliealexan...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
August 21, 2023
As always Ellie Alexander has left my heart fluttering and my mouth watering! This was the 8th book in The Bakeshop Mystery series featuring the amazing baker Jules Capshaw. She has a lot on her plate during this book! A wedding to plan, an expansion of her bakeshop Torte, her feelings for her estranged husband, and trying to be there for her friends. To top it off someone has a grudge towards Jules herself and tries to poison her!
This book had me laughing, it had me tearing up, and falling in love with the characters over and over again. Ellie has a way with her characters, she brings them alive. She is able to weave words of meaning, feeling, and scrumptiousness like The Bard himself!
I recommend this series to anyone who loves coffee, friends, family, and a good mystery! You will find yourself lost in the world of the characters trying to figure out the 'whodunit'. This book had me on my toes the whole time guessing and I loved every second of it!
This book had me laughing, it had me tearing up, and falling in love with the characters over and over again. Ellie has a way with her characters, she brings them alive. She is able to weave words of meaning, feeling, and scrumptiousness like The Bard himself!
I recommend this series to anyone who loves coffee, friends, family, and a good mystery! You will find yourself lost in the world of the characters trying to figure out the 'whodunit'. This book had me on my toes the whole time guessing and I loved every second of it!
November 7, 2018
4.5 Stars rounded up. I always enjoy my visits to Ashland, Oregon and to Torte. It is like visiting with old friends, they are so likeable and work so well together. Jules and her team at Torte have been very busy finalizing plans for the surprise wedding of Helen (Jules' mother) and Doug (aka The Professor) under the guise of a grand reopening celebration of Uvo Winery owned by Jules, Carlos, Lance and Richard Lord (Jules' nemesis). While this is going on, there are major renovations at Torte, even causing a closure for a few days. Carlos (Jules' estranged husband) and his son are visiting to help with the preparations. The mystery in this book involves Lance and his family. It was nice to finally learn more about this quirky character. Lance has hired a private investigator because he is sure his brother hastens his father's death, for money.
This book kept me turning pages quickly. There were several twists and surprises along the way. With more than one death, attempted murders and the introduction of Lance's boorish brother, the reader is kept guessing. There is a hint of further romance between Jules and Carlos, as well as a possible love interest for Thomas, Jules' childhood boyfriend. With some new characters introduced in this story, we continue to learn more about Ashland and the area. It definitely grows on you and makes me want to visit there more than ever. Another wonderful addition to the Bakeshop Mystery Series and one that left me wanting more. I can hardly wait for the next book in this series to find out where Jules, Carlos and the crew at Torte will go next. The publisher, St. Martins, generously provided me with a copy of this book after my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
This book kept me turning pages quickly. There were several twists and surprises along the way. With more than one death, attempted murders and the introduction of Lance's boorish brother, the reader is kept guessing. There is a hint of further romance between Jules and Carlos, as well as a possible love interest for Thomas, Jules' childhood boyfriend. With some new characters introduced in this story, we continue to learn more about Ashland and the area. It definitely grows on you and makes me want to visit there more than ever. Another wonderful addition to the Bakeshop Mystery Series and one that left me wanting more. I can hardly wait for the next book in this series to find out where Jules, Carlos and the crew at Torte will go next. The publisher, St. Martins, generously provided me with a copy of this book after my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
May 20, 2018
It has been a weekend of weddings here. I finished Death Do Us Tart on Friday, perfect book to read just before the royal wedding. I love Ellie Alexander's series based in Ashland Oregon and her bakery Crew from Torte. This was a great read. So much more than a book just about a wedding. There was the beautiful wedding of The Professor and Jules mom, but also great twists with in twists of story lines. Lance, Carlos, Thomas, not to mention the staff and changes happening at Torte, Even the nasty Richard Lord in the mix. I loved this book, I love this series and I know you are going to as well! This one is out June 26th and is published by St. Martin's Press.
November 14, 2020
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Can you keep a secret? Because Jules is planning a big surprise. A surprise Midsummer’s Night Wedding! Her mom Helen and Doug aka “the Professor” are going to be thrilled with the wedding of their dreams. The whole town is in on the surprise and are excited for the bride and groom. Jules is doing a ton of baking for the big event but she is also dealing with the remodeling project at Torte. She is nervous too because Carlos is flying in for the wedding and bringing his son, Romero, who she has yet to meet. Lance is bringing his own family drama to the nuptials in the form of his brother Leo and his entourage. Lance believes his brother is slowly poisoning their father and he wants Jules help to prove it.
Sadly Lance’s father suspiciously dies before the wedding and then a guest collapses at the reception. It appears her glass of wine contained poison. Poison is a common denominator . . . are the cases connected? When Jules learns the doctored wine was meant for her she makes a vow of her own. Catch the killer before they kill her!
______
I have been looking forward to Helen and Doug’s wedding and thanks to Ms. Alexander’s wonderful descriptive writing style she took me there for every delightful moment. From the dresses to the sparkling lights and the delectable food I was treated to a fabulous event. That is until one actual guest keeled over.
There were quite a few new characters introduced and we learned a lot about an original character. Jules’s feelings about Carlo are still muddled but I loved meeting his son. All the characters new and old are well-developed for their place in the story/series but the author leaves room for them to grow.
The mystery was very well done with plenty of twists. With Jules and Lance in the middle of the investigation you know there is going to be drama and excitement. There were also be some truly funny moments too.
Till Death Do Us Tart has a nice quick pace and cleverly meshed subplots. Life in Jules’ world in never dull. In fact, there was a cliffhanger at the end of the book that had me picking up Live and Let Pie immediately after finishing this one. That review will be coming soon.
Can you keep a secret? Because Jules is planning a big surprise. A surprise Midsummer’s Night Wedding! Her mom Helen and Doug aka “the Professor” are going to be thrilled with the wedding of their dreams. The whole town is in on the surprise and are excited for the bride and groom. Jules is doing a ton of baking for the big event but she is also dealing with the remodeling project at Torte. She is nervous too because Carlos is flying in for the wedding and bringing his son, Romero, who she has yet to meet. Lance is bringing his own family drama to the nuptials in the form of his brother Leo and his entourage. Lance believes his brother is slowly poisoning their father and he wants Jules help to prove it.
Sadly Lance’s father suspiciously dies before the wedding and then a guest collapses at the reception. It appears her glass of wine contained poison. Poison is a common denominator . . . are the cases connected? When Jules learns the doctored wine was meant for her she makes a vow of her own. Catch the killer before they kill her!
______
I have been looking forward to Helen and Doug’s wedding and thanks to Ms. Alexander’s wonderful descriptive writing style she took me there for every delightful moment. From the dresses to the sparkling lights and the delectable food I was treated to a fabulous event. That is until one actual guest keeled over.
There were quite a few new characters introduced and we learned a lot about an original character. Jules’s feelings about Carlo are still muddled but I loved meeting his son. All the characters new and old are well-developed for their place in the story/series but the author leaves room for them to grow.
The mystery was very well done with plenty of twists. With Jules and Lance in the middle of the investigation you know there is going to be drama and excitement. There were also be some truly funny moments too.
Till Death Do Us Tart has a nice quick pace and cleverly meshed subplots. Life in Jules’ world in never dull. In fact, there was a cliffhanger at the end of the book that had me picking up Live and Let Pie immediately after finishing this one. That review will be coming soon.
May 9, 2018
It is always a pleasure to return to Ashland Oregon and Torte to see what Juliet and the rest of the cast is up to. This is a fun series and fans will not be disappointed with this installment. I love how the author has grown these characters over the course of eight books and continues to allow them to grow and evolve. This is definitely a character drive cozy mystery series but there mystery itself was good. Juliet and Lance are once again right in the middle of what is going on and provide assistance to the police in wrapping up the case. The author has left a mini cliffhanger and I am looking forward to seeing how that plays out in future books.
I am a fan of this series and will return for future installments. I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided to me by the publisher, St. Martin's, through Netgalley. This book is scheduled for release in late June and I will have a full review on the blog closer to the release date.
I am a fan of this series and will return for future installments. I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided to me by the publisher, St. Martin's, through Netgalley. This book is scheduled for release in late June and I will have a full review on the blog closer to the release date.
July 17, 2018
Jules and her team at Torte have very nearly finalised the plans for Helen and Doug's surprise wedding, everyone is saying that the party (and therefore all the food etc) is for the grand re-opening of Uvo Winery (which is held by Jules/Carlos, Lance and sadly Richard Lord), at the same time the final preparations for the remodel of Torte (basically the kitting out of the new basement bakery/pizza place followed by the gutting of the old kitchen to provide a larger pastry display, larger coffee station and more seating), Carlos and his son are coming over (so the they need to be warned about the subterfuge!)
Lance, however, has more drama in his life, he has finally reconciled with his estranged father only to discover that he is dying (his father - not Lance), but Lance has the horrible feeling that someone (his brother?) is trying to speed the process along, so with this, Richard Lord being even more pompous and domineering, the wedding and a death (or two) Jules's life is in turmoil.
Another brilliant episode in the life and times of Ashland, Ellie Alexander weaves a story as wonderful as A Midsummer Night's Dream, and like that play there is more than one story strand and some wonderful characters. This is a series that never disappoints.
Lance, however, has more drama in his life, he has finally reconciled with his estranged father only to discover that he is dying (his father - not Lance), but Lance has the horrible feeling that someone (his brother?) is trying to speed the process along, so with this, Richard Lord being even more pompous and domineering, the wedding and a death (or two) Jules's life is in turmoil.
Another brilliant episode in the life and times of Ashland, Ellie Alexander weaves a story as wonderful as A Midsummer Night's Dream, and like that play there is more than one story strand and some wonderful characters. This is a series that never disappoints.
May 9, 2018
What a deliciously good series! I love all of the folks at Torte. In this installment of A Bakeshop Mystery, we meet more magnificent characters as author Ellie Alexander takes us on a ride with many delightful twists and turns. Love is in the air, but someone is not in a celebratory mood and poisoned wine gets served. Who was the poison meant for? Why? And who did it? These questions will compel you to keep turning the pages. This book can be read alone, but I highly recommend you read the others in the series, not because you have to, but because they are so good.
July 18, 2018
Till Death Do Us Tart is a delightfully, delectable addition to the series.
Reading about the adventures of Jules and the gang is always a true pleasure.
This book opens with the preparations for the surprise wedding for Jules mom, Helen and the Professor.
Renovations are still taking place at Torte, the family owned bakery in Ashland, Oregon.
Jules has a lot on her plate, so when her overly dramatic best friend Lance confesses shocking news, she has to make time to help.
This story has so many different things going on, you certainly won't want to put it down. I found myself reading late into the night to finish this fantastic book. As the eighth in the series, the books just keep getting better and better.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
Reading about the adventures of Jules and the gang is always a true pleasure.
This book opens with the preparations for the surprise wedding for Jules mom, Helen and the Professor.
Renovations are still taking place at Torte, the family owned bakery in Ashland, Oregon.
Jules has a lot on her plate, so when her overly dramatic best friend Lance confesses shocking news, she has to make time to help.
This story has so many different things going on, you certainly won't want to put it down. I found myself reading late into the night to finish this fantastic book. As the eighth in the series, the books just keep getting better and better.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
June 28, 2018
Till Death Do Us Tart by Ellie Alexander is the eighth tale in A Bakeshop Mystery series. Jules Capshaw has a lot of on her plate. She is busy planning a surprise wedding for her mother and the Professor. Everyone in Ashland, Oregon is in on the surprise except the couple getting married. The nuptials will take place Uva, the vineyard that Jules now owns shares in along with her estranged husband, Carlos (and the horrible Richard Lord). Carlos will be arriving in Ashland along with his son, Romero in two days. It is a Midsummer Night’s Dream wedding and guests have been asked to wear Elizabethan themed attire. The renovations of Torte are still ongoing. The downstairs will be complete within the week and then they can begin work upstairs. As if that is not enough, Lance returns to town and he has a problem. He believes his brother, Leo is poisoning their father and that someone is following him. He would like to invite Leo and his entourage to the wedding (oh no) as part of his plan. Then Lance’s father passes away under suspicious circumstances and a wedding guest collapses from poisoned wine. That glass of wine, though, was meant for Jules. Are the two cases connected? Murder, mayhem and the makeover of Torte are on the menu in Till Death Do Us Tart.
Return to Ashland, Oregon in the latest A Bakeshop Mystery. While Till Death Do Us Tart is the eighth book in the series, it can be read alone. The author does provide the necessary background details for readers. Till Death Do Us Tart is nicely written and it has a fast pace. Ellie Alexander has a conversational writing style that makes her books easy to read and enjoy. There are many cozy moments with baking, friendship, the vineyard, touring the town and the wedding. Carlos is back in Jules life and the attraction between them in undeniable. Jules is falling back in love with Carlos, but she is not sure if he would be happy in Ashland. While I liked the mystery, I thought it was a cinch to solve. I would have liked a better wrap up of the mystery at the end. I wanted more facts and less assumption. My rating for Till Death Do Us Tart is 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). Many delectable delights are mentioned in the book. They will have your mouth watering (there are recipes at the end of the book). We are left with a small cliffhanger at the end. Readers will have to wait for the next A Bakeshop Mystery to discover what happens next with Jules. Till Death Do Us Tart is a light-hearted, charming cozy mystery that will leave you smiling.
Return to Ashland, Oregon in the latest A Bakeshop Mystery. While Till Death Do Us Tart is the eighth book in the series, it can be read alone. The author does provide the necessary background details for readers. Till Death Do Us Tart is nicely written and it has a fast pace. Ellie Alexander has a conversational writing style that makes her books easy to read and enjoy. There are many cozy moments with baking, friendship, the vineyard, touring the town and the wedding. Carlos is back in Jules life and the attraction between them in undeniable. Jules is falling back in love with Carlos, but she is not sure if he would be happy in Ashland. While I liked the mystery, I thought it was a cinch to solve. I would have liked a better wrap up of the mystery at the end. I wanted more facts and less assumption. My rating for Till Death Do Us Tart is 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). Many delectable delights are mentioned in the book. They will have your mouth watering (there are recipes at the end of the book). We are left with a small cliffhanger at the end. Readers will have to wait for the next A Bakeshop Mystery to discover what happens next with Jules. Till Death Do Us Tart is a light-hearted, charming cozy mystery that will leave you smiling.
November 28, 2022
Definitely one of my favorite books of this series. I loved the surprise Elizabethan-themed wedding of Jules' mother and the Professor. Jules' BF Lance asks for help when he suspects his father has been murdered. Even though she's busy planning the wedding and dealing with the remodel of her bakery, she agrees to help. To top it all off, estranged husband Carlos is visiting with his son. Someone drinks a poisoned glass of wine and it's not clear, but maybe Jules is the intended victim. There are a few mysterious things going on and they may or not be related. The mystery is good and had me guessing. My only complaint is the relationship between Jules and Carlos. Are they going to reconcile or not? It's time to decide, in my opinion. It would be nice to have some romance in her life.
April 30, 2018
I adore this series so much and this latest entry didn't disappoint. Fingers crossed that the author doesn't end the series for a while but I think I can read the writing on the cake. [Update 4-30-18: Author assures me this series won't be ending any time soon. Yay!]
This is the perfect series for anyone who wants a cozy mystery with no objectionable content (except perhaps some very appealing and fattening food descriptions and recipes) and likable characters--well, except for Richard Lord and there has to be a villain somewhere.
Thanks to the publisher for the advance digital reading copy.
This is the perfect series for anyone who wants a cozy mystery with no objectionable content (except perhaps some very appealing and fattening food descriptions and recipes) and likable characters--well, except for Richard Lord and there has to be a villain somewhere.
Thanks to the publisher for the advance digital reading copy.
August 22, 2022
This was an amazing addition to the series! My heart was so full seeing many of the characters make major leaps in their personal lives, as well as following Lance and Jules as they teamed up on another mystery. It was so much fun learning more about Lance's life and past too. The mystery was gripping and multi-layered. Highly recommend this series!
June 26, 2018
Till Death Do Us Tart by Ellie Alexander is the 8th book in the Bakeshop Mystery series, and another great addition. I love this series, and have read them all. When a new book comes out it's like visiting old friends. In this book several things are going on. Jules Capshaw is throwing a surprise mid summer wedding for her mom and the police chief. Jules husband Carlos has returned with his son, and Jules finds out shocking secrets about Lance. The plot and characters are well written, and this book will keep you guessing and wondering about all the suspects. I suggest you read the books in order, to get the full effect. I strongly recommend this book for all cozy mystery lovers.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 3, 2019
4 stelle e mezza
Altra bella storia, con un colpevole che mi ha colto di sorpresa, ma forse sono stata un po' distratta dall'evolversi della situazione personale della protagonista.
Altra bella storia, con un colpevole che mi ha colto di sorpresa, ma forse sono stata un po' distratta dall'evolversi della situazione personale della protagonista.
February 2, 2023
I love books with weddings and this one was so fun. Juliet and her crew put together the most delightful sounding SURPRISE wedding for her mom and I loved following along. I'll admit there seemed to be A LOT going on in this book and it took a minute for me to keep everything straight, but so much was resolved by the end that I was very happy with how it turned out. I was completely shocked by the outcome and loved the non-confrontational suspect reveal!
July 8, 2018
I have waited a long time to read this book and it had the ending I was hoping for!
January 7, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up for all the amazing baked goods. 5 stars for that, 2 stars for the mystery and 0 stars for the Brown men.
Content warning: homophobic characters, gay slurs!
Jules is super busy planning a secret Midsummer Night's Wedding for her mother and The Professor and Uva, the winery she know co-owns with Lance, Carlos and Richard Lord. It's going to be the epic event of the summer and everyone is eager to help plan it. The bakeshop crew is churning out desserts galore all while attempting to run the shop as normal during renovations and keep Juliet's mother out of the loop. Sure Jules is running on lack of sleep but that's what coffee is for! She's also nervous about meeting Carlos's son, Ramiro, for the first time. What if he doesn't like her? Then Lance returns from a three week vacation with stunning news. He's been in nearby Medford, a small town of small-minded people, including his own family! Lance's family has never accepted who he is or understood his dreams but his father is elderly and ill and Lance wanted to see his dad one last time. During this visit, their relationship took a surprising turn and now Lance believes his brother Leo is trying to kill their father! Lance turns to Jules to help him investigate. With the Professor heading to Greece for his honeymoon and Thomas and Detective Kerry not having jurisdiction in Medford, it's up to the private detective Lance hired and the always-astute Jules to help him figure things out. They seem to be zeroing in on evidence when disaster strikes and Lance's P.I. is poisoned! She indicates the poison was meant for Jules but Megan and Lance were also offered glasses of champagne. Which one was the poison meant for and does that mean Lance's suspicions are true?
I really liked the cozy aspect of this novel. I skipepd ahead two books because I just wasn't that into the drama. I was tired of Carlos manipulating Jules into doing what he wanted her to do with his sexy and charming ways. I didn't like the hint of a love triangle between Thomas, Jules and Carlos and wanted Jules just to mature and make some firm decisions. It sounds like everyone has matured a lot and stopped fooling around. Jules is settled in Ashland and trying to make things work long-distance with Carlos because he needs to see his son in Spain. Even Lance was more sober and toned down in this novel and way less dramatic. The baking was AH-MAZING! Cookie shots, pastries, wedding cookies, tea cookies, wedding cake, coffee cake and more! I was drooling! Disapointingly, Jules doesn't give us a recipe for cookie shots but a little online sleuthing reveals they were invented by the creator of the cronut and copycat recipes are available online! I caught a mistake though. Is Medford 10 miles or 10 minutes away? 10 miles is pretty far where I come from and takes more like 20 minutes to a half hour to get there! 10 minutes is close enough to almost walk but not quite. Maybe they measure differently in Oregon? or drive faster? less traffic? (Google says 22 minutes, 13.3 miles so neither is correct!)
Mystery-wise this is one of the weakest mysteries I've ever read. I figured out who wanted to poison Jules and why right away. The red herring was good but I suspected I was still correct. The secondary mystery was a little harder to guess but I figured it out just before Lance and Jules did. I hated that Jules kept rushing head first into danger. What the heck? She continually chases after suspects and evidence even after she's told not to! What I really appreciate it that while they stuck their noses in, they did go to the police with their suspicions and evidence and the police take them serious. well, it's hard not to when Thomas is Jules's childhood best friend. Detective Kerry is new on the scene but she seems cool. She's smart, sensible and no-nonsense on duty but she knows how to let go when she needs to and I think Lance is wearing her down. I sense a romance brewing between her and Thomas. He's certainly gotten over his feelings for Jules anyway.
New characters connected with the mystery are Leo, Lance's estranged brother. Leo is homophobic and anti anything "boujee." He has strong feelings about gourmet coffee shops and people who drink decaf coffee. His thoughts about his brother are horrible and even more so to think he learned them from his father. Please don't read this book if you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community. I think the comments were too strong and should have been more veiled like "He disapproved of my chosen career in spite of it being my passion. Theater was for certain types of which his son certainly was not destined to become." It's obvious Lance was who he is from a very young age and it broke my heart his father and brother can't accept that. His brother's comments were shocking in this day and age. However, Lance is a little sympathetic because he now understands his brother probably has a learning disability and isn't as sharp as Lance or quick as Lance in understanding things. Lance understands now Leo was destinted to be a logger because he never got help for his learning problems or saw a way out. Leo seems happy with being the head of the Brown Family Group, an organization I find despicable. Lance is better off without them.
Leo travels with an entourage of lawyer and personal assistant. Sarah, the assistant, seems nice. She puts up with a lot of abuse and probably not much pay. Jarvis, the lawyer, is a sharp dresser and seems boujee to me. I don't know why Leo hired him but I suspect Leo may protest to much, sadly. Jarvis is slick and lawyerly. He's going to make sure Leo gets ALL the money- a LOT of money, from their father's trust. Lance doesn't need the money but it's the principle of the thing. I don't think anyone killed the father. The man was elderly and ill, on hospice. Sometimes people on hospice rally briefly before they decline into a quick death. Yet, Lance swears the machines were unplugged. Did someone do it on purpose? Was it at the request of Lance's father or was it murder? Did Leo kill their father to get the money or was it Sarah or Jarvis who did the deed for him?
Another suspicious character is the man in leather with a goatee who is seen around town. Juliet gets creepy vibes from him and I do too. He's stalking her and he's in the right place at the right time acting suspiciously a lot at the winery. He's certainly involved with the poisoned champagne. Adam is even seen arguing with Megan, Lance's P.I. She, too, seems a little shady and suspicious. She's not very good at what she does because it's obvious she's in Ashland to spy. Is she a double agent? Was she poisoned deliberately or is she right about her suspicions? Another person was offered a glass of champagne that night as well. Clarissa, wife of the architect Roger, who is renovating Torte for Jules. Roger seems nice and the bakery is a passion project for him. He's always enthusiastic about the plans for expansion. Who wouldn't be? More coffee and more baked goods? yes please! His wife, Clarissa, is unpleasant. She's a high society lady who accepts only the best of the best and isn't pleased about her husband's small business project. I suspect she has made a deal with the Brown Family Group to develop the winery land and is eager to buy out Richard to sell and develop the land. Richard is nasty as always and eager to buy out Juliet. He already has a buyer in mind to develop the land so I am sure Leo and Clarissa are involved somehow.
I've come around on Carlos. He's sexy and charming but not maniuplative anymore. He's a good father and has a real passion for animals. I turned into mush when Jules remembered how Carlos loves to save animals in need. I can see why she fell for him! Ramiro is cute. He may be a teenager and may have been raised away from Carlos but they're two peas in a pod. Right now I think they're more like friends than father and son. Ramiro is still young and innocent and hasn't gotten into trouble yet. I'm sure that's coming because he's just as charming and good looking as his dad. Ramiro provides some comic relief as he learns American slang and how to eat American food like Hawaiian pizza. The Torte crew are always lively and fun. I can do without Andy's "bro" California surfer culture but he's young and still has a lot of growing up to do. Stephanie is the one I like best because she's sarcastic and tells it like it is.
I look forward to seeing where this series is going next!
Content warning: homophobic characters, gay slurs!
Jules is super busy planning a secret Midsummer Night's Wedding for her mother and The Professor and Uva, the winery she know co-owns with Lance, Carlos and Richard Lord. It's going to be the epic event of the summer and everyone is eager to help plan it. The bakeshop crew is churning out desserts galore all while attempting to run the shop as normal during renovations and keep Juliet's mother out of the loop. Sure Jules is running on lack of sleep but that's what coffee is for! She's also nervous about meeting Carlos's son, Ramiro, for the first time. What if he doesn't like her? Then Lance returns from a three week vacation with stunning news. He's been in nearby Medford, a small town of small-minded people, including his own family! Lance's family has never accepted who he is or understood his dreams but his father is elderly and ill and Lance wanted to see his dad one last time. During this visit, their relationship took a surprising turn and now Lance believes his brother Leo is trying to kill their father! Lance turns to Jules to help him investigate. With the Professor heading to Greece for his honeymoon and Thomas and Detective Kerry not having jurisdiction in Medford, it's up to the private detective Lance hired and the always-astute Jules to help him figure things out. They seem to be zeroing in on evidence when disaster strikes and Lance's P.I. is poisoned! She indicates the poison was meant for Jules but Megan and Lance were also offered glasses of champagne. Which one was the poison meant for and does that mean Lance's suspicions are true?
I really liked the cozy aspect of this novel. I skipepd ahead two books because I just wasn't that into the drama. I was tired of Carlos manipulating Jules into doing what he wanted her to do with his sexy and charming ways. I didn't like the hint of a love triangle between Thomas, Jules and Carlos and wanted Jules just to mature and make some firm decisions. It sounds like everyone has matured a lot and stopped fooling around. Jules is settled in Ashland and trying to make things work long-distance with Carlos because he needs to see his son in Spain. Even Lance was more sober and toned down in this novel and way less dramatic. The baking was AH-MAZING! Cookie shots, pastries, wedding cookies, tea cookies, wedding cake, coffee cake and more! I was drooling! Disapointingly, Jules doesn't give us a recipe for cookie shots but a little online sleuthing reveals they were invented by the creator of the cronut and copycat recipes are available online! I caught a mistake though. Is Medford 10 miles or 10 minutes away? 10 miles is pretty far where I come from and takes more like 20 minutes to a half hour to get there! 10 minutes is close enough to almost walk but not quite. Maybe they measure differently in Oregon? or drive faster? less traffic? (Google says 22 minutes, 13.3 miles so neither is correct!)
Mystery-wise this is one of the weakest mysteries I've ever read. I figured out who wanted to poison Jules and why right away. The red herring was good but I suspected I was still correct. The secondary mystery was a little harder to guess but I figured it out just before Lance and Jules did. I hated that Jules kept rushing head first into danger. What the heck? She continually chases after suspects and evidence even after she's told not to! What I really appreciate it that while they stuck their noses in, they did go to the police with their suspicions and evidence and the police take them serious. well, it's hard not to when Thomas is Jules's childhood best friend. Detective Kerry is new on the scene but she seems cool. She's smart, sensible and no-nonsense on duty but she knows how to let go when she needs to and I think Lance is wearing her down. I sense a romance brewing between her and Thomas. He's certainly gotten over his feelings for Jules anyway.
New characters connected with the mystery are Leo, Lance's estranged brother. Leo is homophobic and anti anything "boujee." He has strong feelings about gourmet coffee shops and people who drink decaf coffee. His thoughts about his brother are horrible and even more so to think he learned them from his father. Please don't read this book if you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community. I think the comments were too strong and should have been more veiled like "He disapproved of my chosen career in spite of it being my passion. Theater was for certain types of which his son certainly was not destined to become." It's obvious Lance was who he is from a very young age and it broke my heart his father and brother can't accept that. His brother's comments were shocking in this day and age. However, Lance is a little sympathetic because he now understands his brother probably has a learning disability and isn't as sharp as Lance or quick as Lance in understanding things. Lance understands now Leo was destinted to be a logger because he never got help for his learning problems or saw a way out. Leo seems happy with being the head of the Brown Family Group, an organization I find despicable. Lance is better off without them.
Leo travels with an entourage of lawyer and personal assistant. Sarah, the assistant, seems nice. She puts up with a lot of abuse and probably not much pay. Jarvis, the lawyer, is a sharp dresser and seems boujee to me. I don't know why Leo hired him but I suspect Leo may protest to much, sadly. Jarvis is slick and lawyerly. He's going to make sure Leo gets ALL the money- a LOT of money, from their father's trust. Lance doesn't need the money but it's the principle of the thing. I don't think anyone killed the father. The man was elderly and ill, on hospice. Sometimes people on hospice rally briefly before they decline into a quick death. Yet, Lance swears the machines were unplugged. Did someone do it on purpose? Was it at the request of Lance's father or was it murder? Did Leo kill their father to get the money or was it Sarah or Jarvis who did the deed for him?
Another suspicious character is the man in leather with a goatee who is seen around town. Juliet gets creepy vibes from him and I do too. He's stalking her and he's in the right place at the right time acting suspiciously a lot at the winery. He's certainly involved with the poisoned champagne. Adam is even seen arguing with Megan, Lance's P.I. She, too, seems a little shady and suspicious. She's not very good at what she does because it's obvious she's in Ashland to spy. Is she a double agent? Was she poisoned deliberately or is she right about her suspicions? Another person was offered a glass of champagne that night as well. Clarissa, wife of the architect Roger, who is renovating Torte for Jules. Roger seems nice and the bakery is a passion project for him. He's always enthusiastic about the plans for expansion. Who wouldn't be? More coffee and more baked goods? yes please! His wife, Clarissa, is unpleasant. She's a high society lady who accepts only the best of the best and isn't pleased about her husband's small business project. I suspect she has made a deal with the Brown Family Group to develop the winery land and is eager to buy out Richard to sell and develop the land. Richard is nasty as always and eager to buy out Juliet. He already has a buyer in mind to develop the land so I am sure Leo and Clarissa are involved somehow.
I've come around on Carlos. He's sexy and charming but not maniuplative anymore. He's a good father and has a real passion for animals. I turned into mush when Jules remembered how Carlos loves to save animals in need. I can see why she fell for him! Ramiro is cute. He may be a teenager and may have been raised away from Carlos but they're two peas in a pod. Right now I think they're more like friends than father and son. Ramiro is still young and innocent and hasn't gotten into trouble yet. I'm sure that's coming because he's just as charming and good looking as his dad. Ramiro provides some comic relief as he learns American slang and how to eat American food like Hawaiian pizza. The Torte crew are always lively and fun. I can do without Andy's "bro" California surfer culture but he's young and still has a lot of growing up to do. Stephanie is the one I like best because she's sarcastic and tells it like it is.
I look forward to seeing where this series is going next!
August 18, 2018
Running Torte, a premier bakery in Ashland, Oregon, is a full-time job. Add in organizing a surprise midsummer- night themed wedding for her mother and step-dad-to-be that the entire town is invited to attend, major renovations to Torte, and the arrival of her cruise chef husband and meeting his preteen son, and you have the recipe for a nervous breakdown. Oh, don't forget her friend, Lance, and his family troubles that may turn deadly. Yet, in Jules Capshaw's latest adventure, you see she can handle it all with aplomb. Another excellent entry into this tasty series. It's tons of fun, readable and highly recommended.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 23, 2021
this was dumb, full of plot holes and somehow lacked the rich character interactions and food descriptions i enjoy - despite a premise that had potential this fell so flat. I’ve enjoyed some books in this series but at this point not even sure if I can continue it
November 10, 2019
3 Stars!
A Bakeshop Mystery #8
Not my favorite but still fun!
A Bakeshop Mystery #8
Not my favorite but still fun!
July 3, 2018
Three and a half stars: Another fun installment that features great food, a sweet wedding and a murder.
Jules is busy with the latest renovations of her beloved bakery Torte. She is also trying to pull off planning a secret wedding for her mother and the Professor. Plus, Carlos is coming to town with his son. How will she manage to juggle it all? Just when everything seems to be going smoothly, a poisoned glass of wine turns up at the wedding, and it seems the wine may have been meant for Jules. Who would want to murder Jules and why?
What I Liked:
*Even though this is the eighth book in this series, it still delights. I love catching up with the cast, reading about the delicious food and trying to solve the murder. If you enjoy cozies, this is a series worth checking out.
*The story revolves around the secret wedding that Jules is planning for her mother. I loved reading about all the wedding preparations, so much fun!
*Carlos is back, and this time he introduces Jules to his son. I am thrilled with the direction the romance is taking, and I have my fingers crossed that things will settle out in a positive direction. No more love triangle!
*Lance also returns, and as usual he has a flair for the dramatic and he proves to be highly entertaining. I loved exploring Lance’s past and learning about his family and his upbringing.
*The murder itself was interesting. I wasn’t sure who the culprit was and what the motives were. I was guessing until the end.
*As usual, there are some tantalizing recipes at the end. It is totally worth reading this series to absorb the wonderful food descriptions and for the recipes!
And The Not So Much:
*I felt like the foreshadowing was a little heavy handed in this one. I don’t like when too much is given away too early.
*A lot of time is devoted to red herring suspects, which made it easy to ascertain that they weren’t the real culprits.
*Once the murder was revealed, there was a lot of supposition and I found it hard to believe how the dots were connected.
Tell Death Do Us Tart was another fun installment in a solid cozy series. I love the small town setting, the characters, the food and the recipes. If you want an entertaining cozy series, this is one to add to your list. I have enjoyed each and every book in the series, and I am eager for more.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Jules is busy with the latest renovations of her beloved bakery Torte. She is also trying to pull off planning a secret wedding for her mother and the Professor. Plus, Carlos is coming to town with his son. How will she manage to juggle it all? Just when everything seems to be going smoothly, a poisoned glass of wine turns up at the wedding, and it seems the wine may have been meant for Jules. Who would want to murder Jules and why?
What I Liked:
*Even though this is the eighth book in this series, it still delights. I love catching up with the cast, reading about the delicious food and trying to solve the murder. If you enjoy cozies, this is a series worth checking out.
*The story revolves around the secret wedding that Jules is planning for her mother. I loved reading about all the wedding preparations, so much fun!
*Carlos is back, and this time he introduces Jules to his son. I am thrilled with the direction the romance is taking, and I have my fingers crossed that things will settle out in a positive direction. No more love triangle!
*Lance also returns, and as usual he has a flair for the dramatic and he proves to be highly entertaining. I loved exploring Lance’s past and learning about his family and his upbringing.
*The murder itself was interesting. I wasn’t sure who the culprit was and what the motives were. I was guessing until the end.
*As usual, there are some tantalizing recipes at the end. It is totally worth reading this series to absorb the wonderful food descriptions and for the recipes!
And The Not So Much:
*I felt like the foreshadowing was a little heavy handed in this one. I don’t like when too much is given away too early.
*A lot of time is devoted to red herring suspects, which made it easy to ascertain that they weren’t the real culprits.
*Once the murder was revealed, there was a lot of supposition and I found it hard to believe how the dots were connected.
Tell Death Do Us Tart was another fun installment in a solid cozy series. I love the small town setting, the characters, the food and the recipes. If you want an entertaining cozy series, this is one to add to your list. I have enjoyed each and every book in the series, and I am eager for more.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
October 8, 2023
Ellie Alexander is one of my favorite cozy authors, and I've yet to be disappointed by one of her books. I like the relationships between Jules and her mom, the bakeshop staff, (most of) the town residents, even local law enforcement.
There was a lot going on in this book - planning a surprise wedding, continuing a major renovation, a big personal decision for Jules, and opening a winery - but it was handled well, without getting bogged down in any one thing.
The mystery in this story was slow to develop, but there were plenty of teasers leading up to it and a lot of what I thought were shady suspects. There is one recurring character that I always hope will be the villain in the story, but that hasn't happened (yet). The culprit turned out to be someone I suspected right from the start, and I even nailed the motive.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series to see how some of the decisions made at the end of the book work out.
There was a lot going on in this book - planning a surprise wedding, continuing a major renovation, a big personal decision for Jules, and opening a winery - but it was handled well, without getting bogged down in any one thing.
The mystery in this story was slow to develop, but there were plenty of teasers leading up to it and a lot of what I thought were shady suspects. There is one recurring character that I always hope will be the villain in the story, but that hasn't happened (yet). The culprit turned out to be someone I suspected right from the start, and I even nailed the motive.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series to see how some of the decisions made at the end of the book work out.
May 19, 2018
This is the first book I have read in this series. What a sweet and fun read. This sure will not be the last time that I read a book in this series. In fact, I want to go back at the beginning and get more familiar with these characters. Although, every woman needs a "Lance" in their lives. He is the best guy pal that women could have. He is not only not afraid to get his hands dirty when it comes to solving a murder but he also brings the flair and laughs. Jules is not to be counted out. She may not have had the stomach like Lance but she was willing to go along.
Actually, it was really Lance and Jules that played a huge part in helping to solve the case. Jules did also contribute some very yummy treats. I do want to touch on the other characters; they were interesting. They didn't just play minor roles in the story. Bonus: There are several recipes in the back of this book that will have you wanting to make them all.
Actually, it was really Lance and Jules that played a huge part in helping to solve the case. Jules did also contribute some very yummy treats. I do want to touch on the other characters; they were interesting. They didn't just play minor roles in the story. Bonus: There are several recipes in the back of this book that will have you wanting to make them all.
June 25, 2018
Starting a new book from this series always feels like getting together with an old friend. No matter how long it has been since you've last talked, you can pick right up again in a comfortable and connected way. I would love to one day see if the real life Ashland, Oregon, is as cozy, warm, and inviting as Ellie Alexander paints it in her Bakeshop Mysteries!
Till Death Do Us Tart is the eighth book in this series and the whole town is secretly abuzz. Jules and the team at Torte are deep in clandestine plans to throw a Shakespeare inspired wedding for Jules' mom and The Professor. But there are a few other things on Jules' mind, too. First, her estranged husband, Carlos, is due back in town. Their relationship is one that Jules has yet to fully sort out--not to mention that this visit will be the first time she'll meet her husband's son. Second, her BFF Lance has been MIA for days. When he does return, he reveals some very surprising details about his life, his family, and his fear that someone is trying to kill his father. Finally, the Torte bakeshop is undergoing serious expansions and renovations--two words that would strike fear and anxiety into the hearts of any small business owner!
As always, Ellie Alexander weaves together the various threads of characters, plot, and twists into quite an enjoyable read. Her stories never disappoint--and the recipes always leave me wanting more!
Till Death Do Us Tart is the eighth book in this series and the whole town is secretly abuzz. Jules and the team at Torte are deep in clandestine plans to throw a Shakespeare inspired wedding for Jules' mom and The Professor. But there are a few other things on Jules' mind, too. First, her estranged husband, Carlos, is due back in town. Their relationship is one that Jules has yet to fully sort out--not to mention that this visit will be the first time she'll meet her husband's son. Second, her BFF Lance has been MIA for days. When he does return, he reveals some very surprising details about his life, his family, and his fear that someone is trying to kill his father. Finally, the Torte bakeshop is undergoing serious expansions and renovations--two words that would strike fear and anxiety into the hearts of any small business owner!
As always, Ellie Alexander weaves together the various threads of characters, plot, and twists into quite an enjoyable read. Her stories never disappoint--and the recipes always leave me wanting more!
March 15, 2019
In this Bakeshop Mystery, Jules and her crew, as well as most of the town, are planning a surprise wedding for her mother and the Professor, her mother's fiance. While Torte is undergoing a remodeling, Jules and the crew work hard on the wedding plans. Everything goes well, until a guest is poisoned with a glass of wine that was intended for Jules. At the same time, Jules' friend Lance suspects that his father has been murdered and wants Jules' help to find the murderer. Both threads twist together as their are suspcious characters involved in both situations. To further complicate things, Jules' estranged husband comes to town for the wedding, bringing with him the son that Jules has never met, and who is the reason for their estrangement. Things get complicated, indeed, but Jules and her crew manage to figure out what is truly happening, and the murderer is caught. This is a very satisfying series.
March 21, 2025
In book #8 of the series, Jules, with some help from others, plans her mom's wedding. Someone at the wedding gets poisoned and tells Jules the poisoned drink may have actually been intended for her. Lance recently rekindled a relationship with his estranged dad and thinks someone is out to get his dad too. There's a few mysteries to figure out in this one. It's also interesting to see how they tie together. I really enjoy reading this series. I don't want to take a break but I did receive a couple Goodreads giveaways in the mail and a couple cozy mysteries from the library I've been waiting to catch up on. I'm drowning in books, but I'll be back to this series asap. Happy reading! 🍰🍹
August 26, 2018
I love a good mystery and this series is never failing in giving us one. Jules is having her baking pans full, not only with mysteries but also a secret wedding. Plus, she is constantly making food that makes a reader’s mouth drool. I was kept on the edge of my seat with this one, and would suggest reading this on a weekend because you will not put it down! I am eagerly awaiting the next mystery.
April 5, 2020
I love this series! This latest cozy in the series did not disappoint. I adored this story. Returning to the wonderful town of Ashland Oregon was so much! I especially loved the ending 😊 This is one of my favorite cozy series, and I will look forward to reading the next book in the series very soon! 💖📖📚
January 19, 2022
I really enjoyed this one, may be my favorite since book 1. I even liked Carlos in this one.
I’m really liking the new detective and the potential “partnership” of her and Thomas.
Always a fun time in Ashland.
I’m really liking the new detective and the potential “partnership” of her and Thomas.
Always a fun time in Ashland.
July 21, 2023
Ellie Alexander, please stop trying to make me like Carlos.
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