Pressing the Issue

Cookbook Nook Mystery #6

by Daryl Wood Gerber

As the annual Renaissance Fair comes to Crystal Cove, Jenna Hart’s Cookbook Nook is packed with tasty treats and all things medieval, while her pal Bailey is ready to swoon over her upcoming nuptials at a local vineyard. But when the two friends discover the body of the vineyard’s owner bludgeoned by a winepress, all their merriment fades, along with their hopes for a vintage year.


Which churlish varlet did the deed? Was it the victim’s errant brother, who stood to inherit the vineyards? Or the owner’s crestfallen ex-girlfriend? Mayhap it was the newly arrived comely wench, or her jealous husband. Fie on them all! Verily, Jenna can’t rest until justice is served, and she vows to track down the killer. But can she sniff out the truth before the villainous culprit strikes again?


Includes tantalizing recipes!


Praise for Daryl Wood Gerber and the Cookbook Nook


“There’s a feisty new amateur sleuth in town and her name is Jenna Hart. With a bodacious cast of characters, a wrenching murder, and a collection of cookbooks to die for, Daryl Wood Gerber’s Final Sentence is a page-turning puzzler of a mystery that I could not put down.” —Jenn McKinlay, New York Times bestselling author of the Cupcake Mysteries and Library Lovers Mysteries
“In Final Sentence, the author smartly blends crime, recipes, and an array of cookbooks that all should covet in a witty, well-plotted whodunit.” —Kate Carlisle, New York Times bestselling author of the Bibliophile Mysteries
“Readers will relish the extensive cookbook suggestions, the cooking primer, and the whole foodie phenomenon. Gerber’s perky tone with a multigenerational cast makes this series a good match for Lorna Barrett’s Booktown Mystery series . . .” —Library Journal
“So pull out your cowboy boots and settle in for a delightful read. Grilling the Subject is a delicious new mystery that will leave you hungry for more.” —Carstairs Considers Blog


About the


Agatha Award–winning and nationally bestselling author Daryl Wood Gerber is the author of the Cookbook Nook Mysteries, the French Bistro Mysteries, the Cheese Shop Mysteries (as Avery Aames), and stand-alone suspense thrillers. Little known facts about Daryl are that she’s jumped out of a perfectly good airplane, has hitchhiked around Ireland by herself, and has appeared on an episode of Murder, She Wrote. She loves to read, cook, and golf, and has a frisky Goldendoodle named Sparky who keeps her in line!

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Cozy, Food, Romance

350 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 20, 2018

About the author

Agatha Award-winning and nationally bestselling author Daryl Wood Gerber writes the Aroma Wellness Mysteries, Literary Dining Mysteries, Fairy Garden Mysteries, Cookbook Nook Mysteries, and French Bistro Mysteries. As Avery Aames, she pens the popular Cheese Shop Mysteries.

In addition, Daryl also writes suspense including the stand-alone novel, THE SON'S SECRET, the Aspen Adams novels of suspense, and two more stand-alone titles, DAY OF SECRETS and GIRL ON THE RUN.

She has recently delved into the realm of romance with her first Christmas romance, HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS.

Fun tidbit: as an actress, Daryl appeared in “Murder, She Wrote.” She loves to cook, and she has a frisky Goldendoodle named Sparky who keeps her in line!

Visit Daryl at www.darylwoodgerber.com.

Reviews

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pressing the Issue is the 6th book in the Cookbook Nook Mysteries written by Daryl Wood Gerber. I've read several other series by this author and I've also read the previous books in this one. I enjoy the seaside California setting, the combo book/cafe backdrop, and the memorable characters, including protagonist, Jenna, a thirtyish storeowner with immense curiosity and a penchant for finding dead bodies. Of course, this is the typical story for a cozy mystery, but each one carries its own twist. It even tosses in a few fun pets that make us warm and cozy.

A Renaissance Faire has come to Crystal Cove, and Jenna is caught up in the costumes, acting, and guests. Too bad one of them has it out for the head of the event, a local who runs a vineyard and wedding venue. He's hosting Bailey's (Jenna's best friend) upcoming nuptials, but there seems to be a curse. When the man ends up murdered by an old wine press, Jenna must solve the crime to clear friends and keep the wedding on schedule. Was it the man's brother who raises birds? A girlfriend recently dumped? A couple who have mysterious secrets? A neighbor with a grudge against the family? Or one of the other supporting characters who each have something to do with the Faire?

Gerber keeps the plot light and fun with the backdrop setting. Between the descriptions and the language, readers are immersed in Medieval times. The mystery had depth, and it could've gone in several directions. New and old characters popped up, and I enjoyed the progressive romance of Jenna and her local boyfriend. I think they're good for one another, but they also don't dominate the story. The writing is fun and solid. The setup for future books continues with the various shenanigans the Cookbook Nook. And I can't wait to see who gets married next among Katie, Pepper, Cinnamon, Vera, and Lola. Only two have a real chance, as the others seem to squash their romances as much as they find them. Nonetheless, it will be amusing to stay the course on this ride.

[LORI CASWELL · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dollycas’s Thoughts

We arrive in Crystal Cove just in time for the Renaissance Fair and Bailey’s wedding. Everyone was having a great time until the Nick, the king of the faire and owner of the venue for Bailey’s wedding is found dead. With a booth at the fair, the Cookbook Nook, and all the wedding plans the last thing Jenna Hart needs in a murder to solve. Nick was a very popular resident of Crystal Cove, who would want him dead? Jenna starts talking to everyone she can, maybe she can find the killer before all the people in town for the faire clear out and maybe Bailey’s dream wedding can take place as planned. Let the sleuthing begin.

The last book in this series had me struggling with many emotions. I was so glad to pick up this book and reconnect with all the characters and their lives at a happy time with the wedding and Ren Faire. The author does an excellent job of getting us up to date and back into the groove with Jenna and her friends and family. We also meet some new characters in town for the faire. Daryl Wood Gerber creates such delightful characters that have grown in each new installment of this series.

I was very taken with the vineyard setting Bailey and Tito had chosen for their nuptials. It was described so nicely and sounded like a beautiful place. I have never been to a Ren Faire but I had in my mind a set-up similar to the setting in Joyce and Jim Lavene’s Renaissance Faire Mysteries, but this being only a pop-up type event it wasn’t as elaborate as the faire in those stories, but it sure appeared to be a lot of fun.

The mystery is so well-written, plenty of suspects and plenty of twists. I do have a problem when I read books by this author. I tend to get all wrapped up in happening to the regular characters and the great books Jenna has a the CookBook Nook that I usually miss some very important clue. This time I made myself pay attention, even highlighting lines from the book on my Kindle. This time when we reached the reveal of the killer I was so happy to see my diligence paid off and I was right.

Another great story from Daryl Wood Gerber.

This series is best read in order for maximum enjoyment.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this installment of the Cookbook Nook Mystery, we visit Crystal Cove with its Renaissance Faire in full swing. All the businesses are getting their stalls ready so they can entice fair goers with all their goods and products as well as getting into the swing of things with costumes and Faire Speak. When Nick Baldine, King Henry the VIII, turns up dead, it puts a bit of a damper on the event. Is the new couple in town involved in some way? Did Nick know Melody before she arrived in town? Jenna just can’t stop herself from sleuthing, to police chief Cinnamon Pritchard’s chagrin. She asks lots of questions, gets people upset with her, and seems to investigate more than she actually works in her shop.

This is the first book I have read in this series, and I had no trouble following the story. There has definitely been a lot of character development along the way that I have missed, and will probably go back and read the first five books in this series now. The book is well-written and fun with captivating characters. The plot is well developed and believable with the murderer being revealed in a dangerous way. I did figure out who it was part way through the story, but the why was revealed slowly and with a twist. The group from the Cookbook Nook, are great friends, work well together, and have rather interesting lives. Bailey, Jenna's partner at the store and BFF, is getting married to Tito and their wedding plans go through a lot of turmoil in this story. They are planning on getting married at Nick Baldini's Vineyard. Aunt Vera and her tarot card readings, her vibes and her personality are quite integral to the story. She is a character who is involved in so many different things in town, yet is lovable and a bit eccentric. The food is also a great part of the story. The cooking demonstrations and the small hand snacks in the story have their recipes at the back of the book. I am hoping to try a couple of them. I hope to be able to return to Crystal Cove over and over. I recommend this story to cozy mystery lovers, especially if you enjoy culinary mysteries with recipes. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.

[Ell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love being taken back to Crystal Cove with Jenna and the Cookbook Nook gang. It is like coming home and slipping into a soft, well-worn pair of jeans. Everything just fits and feels right. It is Renaissance Faire time and in Crystal Cove that means plenty of costumes, camaraderie and a king who gets killed. As usual, Jenna just can’t stop herself from sleuthing, to police chief Cinnamon Pritchard’s chagrin. The book is well-written and fun with captivating characters. I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my rating. I have provided an unbiased and honest review.

[JoAn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pressing the Issue by Daryl Wood Gerber is the sixth book in her Cookbook Nook cozy mystery series. I found it to be a charming and engaging read.

I enjoyed being back in Crystal cove and spending time with Jenna, Bailey, and Aunt Vera as Jenna once again hunts for a murderer. The plot moved swiftly as Jenna moves through suspects that are attending the local Renaissance Fair but the mystery requires Jenna to look to the past for her answers. Ms. Gerber's writing is so comfortable for me and the characters and community of Crystal Cove have become a favorite "vacation" spot for me that I just slip right into the story.

[Robin Leslie Coxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daryl Wood Gerber is back with her sixth book in her Cookbook Nook Mystery Series. We are privileged with the research of Ms. Gerber into Renaissance Fairs as well as the foods served at these events. The annual Crystal Cove Renaissance Fair is gearing up and Jenna and Bailey are preparing the Cookbook Nook for this event. Bailey is keyed up about her wedding to Tito Martinez, that is scheduled in two weeks at Baldini Vineyards. After Bailey’s first venue fell through Jenna contacted Nick Baldini, a regular customer of the Cookbook Nook. Nick is also the main person in charge of the Renaissance Fair. Bailey’s nerves have been instigated by her mother who is getting vibes that something bad is going to happen. Jenna as always tries to reassure Bailey it will all work out. Many of the other businesses in Crystal Cove are also participating in the Renaissance Fair and have their own booths. Everything seems to be a success until Bailey and Jenna go to Baldini’s Vineyard for last minute wedding planning. It is then the answer to the bad vibes is discovered. Jenna’s tendency is perked to investigate into the situation and the story begins.

[Tari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't want this book to end! From the mystery itself to all the different couples either getting engaged, married or talking about doing that, not to mention a really awesome Renaissance Fair, I could have kept on reading and reading. I wasn't caught up in the series but have read the first three. I was just anxious to read this one and readers will be happy to know it can be read by itself since everything is always explained well without giving away any juicy details from previous books.

Crystal Cove is having its annual Ren Fair and all the businesses are getting their stalls ready so they can entice fair goers with all their goods and products There's a new couple in town, temporarily living in Pepper Pritchard's house (while she lives with her daughter, police chief, Cinnamon...don't ask how that's going lol) and they seem to have an air of mystery about them.

Nick Baldini is in charge of the fair as Henry the 8th as always, and putting together a video of "fair-speak" telling newcomers how to speak medieval and have fun with it along with their costumes. When he ends up dead, there is no end to the possibility of suspects. Jenna, as usual, is investigating against police orders of course while everyone tries their best to be business as usual. It didn't help that poor Bailey and her finace Tito were having Nick plan their wedding which was to be at Baldini vineyards.

Things all around aren't adding up for Jenna but in true fashion, she manages to help solve the case and put the killer away. One of these days she hopes for Cinnamon to actually consider her a friend without scowling at her investigating.

I love returning to Crystal Cove! All my favorite characters and then some were there. I always get such a kick out of Aunt Vera and her vibes, card readings and all that fun stuff. I really enjoyed how all the characters were getting into the medieval thing and using fair-speak. It was pretty funny when Jenna's dad was getting into it because in the first couple of books there's no way he would have. He's been having a lot more fun in life and lightening up.

I can't wait to see what's in store next for my friends in Crystal Cove!

[April Schilling · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ren Faire, as those in the know call it, has once again come to Crystal Cove. Jenna and her friends are all very excited about the Faire and the revenue that it will bring for the town and the townspeople. But, when the king is found dead by Jenna and her friend Bailey, what does that mean for the Faire? And what does that mean for Bailey's wedding that was meant to be held on the king's vineyard property? Will Jenna be able to find the killer before they stop her?

I was lucky enough to get an advanced reader copy of this book and I loved it so much, I couldn't put it down! I've enjoyed this series and this was another great installment. Jenna and her friends are such great characters, I can just imagine going into the Cookbook Nook for a neat cookbook and having tea and scones in the Cafe'. The way the town is described, I have no problems picturing it and the Faire that was held in this book. I've worked Faires before and the description of this one was wonderfully enjoyable! Can not wait to read the next book!

[Mark Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Renaissance Fair has come to town, and all of Crystal Cove is getting into the act. However, not everyone is in the partying mood, as Jenna Hart discovers when she and some friends stumble on the body of Nick, a local vineyard owner. Nick was universally loved, or so it seemed. Who wanted him gone?

It was so glad to be back with Jenna and her community. She really does have a large group of friends and family, and they all get their moments to shine here. Of course, we get some strong suspects. I did figure some parts of the mystery out early, but I didn’t have it all pieced together until Jenna figured it out. And the Renaissance Fair proves to be another fun backdrop for the action.

NOTE: I received in ARC of this book.

Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jenna Hart and the crew at the Cookbook Nook are getting into the spirit of things as Crystal Cove hosts the annual Renaissance Fair--they're cooking up tasty treats and wearing the garb of all things Tudor. But then a local wine maker is murdered, and Jenna goes into detective mode.

There are lots of suspects, the victim's ex, his brother, and a pair of fair crafters who Jenna thinks are hiding secrets. It's up to her to find the killers, and help her best friend, Bailey, plan her wedding on the side.

It's always fun to return to Crystal Cove, and the addition of the Renaissance Fair made Pressing the Issue all the more entertaining. Daryl Wood Gerber's descriptions of the fair took me back to a visit I made to one years ago, and made me want to visit one again. The descriptions were colorful and vivid, and added a great deal of flavor to the book.

As always, there is a colorful cast of characters, and that's what makes the Cookbook Nook series so much fun. You never know what the characters are going to do, and it's fun to guess, and then be surprised.

The mystery was good, and there was a twist that I did not see coming. That is something I always look for. As always, the end of this book left me wanting to visit Crystal Cove again. It would be great if writers could produce as fast as I read, lol.

[Celia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've always wanted to go to a Renaissance Faire, and with Pressing the Issue, my wish was granted (at least vicariously). The atmosphere was so realistic, and I think I enjoyed it as much as the characters -- at least until Nick Baldini, vineyard owner and official King of the Faire, is murdered. Everyone liked Nick, so who could have wanted him dead? Jenna Hart is wondering the same thing and just can't stop herself from investigating, although she has her work cut out for her and is not receiving any help from the police, who just want her to stay out of it and keep safe.

Pressing the issue is a wonderful read with lots of clues and a few red herrings that keep the reader guessing. It was so nice to come home to Crystal Cove and revisit the characters we have grown to know and enjoy. Frankly, I could spend all day in Jenna's Cookbook Nook shop that has been filled with Renaissance cookbooks, history books, medieval crafts and other items. I especially like Daryl Wood Gerber's cozy book and cookbook recommendations that pepper the pages, and the recipes at the end of the book are very enticing. Oh, and did I mention the Faire speak? Dilly, Dilly!

I highly recommend this book as it is well written, authentic, and although there is a murder, there is also a lot of fun. I look forward to each visit to Crystal Cove and know you will as well.

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Taryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's time for Crystal Coves annual Ren Fair and everyone is excited. All the shop keepers are getting into the spirit, even Pepper who can be a grouch. Jenna has so many things planned and hopes she'll be able to attend everything that she wants to. There is so much to look forward to, like her best friend Bailey's wedding in a couple of weeks. The wedding is to be held at a local winery and Jenna is happy to take a moment away to help Bailey figure out some of the wedding details. Nick Baldini, the winery owner, also happens to be king of the fair. When Nick is found dead people wonder why someone would kill him, he was a beloved member of the town and didn't seem to have any real enemies. With Buck's death Bailey is afraid she'll have to look for another venue and postpone her wedding. Even though the police told her to stay out of it Jenna feels like she needs to look into Nick's death and Bailey is right there with her. Will they be able to come up with the answers to the clues they find as they investigate? Follow along as they delve into Nick's everyday life, his persona at the Ren Fair, and into his past. Will they find the killer before the killer finds them? This is such a fun series filled with great characters, an exciting story line, and tasty recipes!!!

[Patrizia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Credevo che questa serie fosse conclusa così sono stata felice di scoprire che l'autrice aveva trovato un altro editore disposto a pubblicarla. Anche se questo vuol dire un'altra serie da aggiungere al mio elenco sempre più lungo...
Detto questo, al centro della trama di questo libro c'è una fiera rinascimentale e avrei letto comunque il libro solo per questo. Come gli altri è stata una buona lettura, sebbene abbia capito subito chi fosse il colpevole, più per una sensazione di pancia che per deduzione lo ammetto. Ormai sono diventata così brava che difficilmente non metto il colpevole nel mio radar... Nonostante questo riesco ad apprezzare i vari cozy mysteries che leggo, come è successo con questo.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pressing the Issue by Daryl Wood Gerber is the sixth book in A Cookbook Nook Mystery series. Jenna Hart is busy getting the Cookbook Nook ready for the Crystal Cove Renaissance Fair. Bailey Bird, though, is of little help since she is out of sorts. Bailey is getting married in two weeks to Tito Martinez at Baldini Vineyard. Lola Bird has not helped matters by telling Bailey that she has a bad vibe about the nuptials. Bailey receives a cryptic message from Nick Baldini and it sounds like he is in trouble. Jenna and Bailey rush to his home to find him on the floor with blood coming from a head wound. They check for a pulse and find their King of the Renaissance Fair, Nick is dead. Jenna quickly contacts Police Chief Cinnamon Pritchett who warns Jenna to stay out of the investigation. The murder weapon turns out to be a winepress that Nick had shown them earlier in the day. Bailey is thrown into a tailspin. What will happen to her wedding? Jenna quietly (does not want to incur Cinnamon’s wrath) begins asking questions to find out more about Nick and who could have wished him harm. Time is running out because soon the Renaissance Fair visitors will be departing, and the killer could be hiding among them. Who could have committed this dastardly deed? Will Bailey and Tito have their wedding?

Pressing the Issue can be read alone. Everything a reader needs to know is included in the book. Returning to Crystal Cove is like visiting old friends. It is a charming town with welcoming townspeople, a beach, and inviting shops. The main characters are warm, friendly and relatable. It was lovely to catch up with Jenna, Bailey, Kate, Rhett and Aunt Vera. The descriptions of the Renaissance Fair are vivid. I enjoyed reading about the costumes, food and activities (the Renaissance Fair speak was entertaining and amusing). It felt like I was there enjoying it with them. There are delightful book descriptions (cookbooks and some cozy mysteries). The tantalizing food narratives will have your mouth watering (recipes included at the end of the book). I appreciated how the author incorporated Charlotte Bessette of Fromagerie Bessette into the story (from the Cheese Shop Mystery series written under her Avery Aames pen name) and her mention of Ohio State University (Go Buckeyes). The mystery was enticing, but avid cozy mystery readers will find it child’s play to solve. There are several suspects and some good misdirection that will lead readers down the wrong path. I do wish that Police Chief Pritchett would start working with Jenna on the investigations. Cinnamon knows that Jenna’s natural curiosity will not keep her away from looking into a case and Jenna is good at ferreting out information. I found the ending to be endearing. I am rating Pressing the Issue 4 out of 5 stars.

[Kristine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was thrilled to see another book in this series was available. Reading this was like a nice long visit with friends. There is plenty talk about food - you can't have a book set at the Renaissance Fair and not have turkey legs - and an interesting mystery for the Jenna to solve. The author kept me guessing until the final reveal with a few twists and red herrings. I hope to see many more books in this series, I enjoy my visits to Crystal Cove, CA.

I received a copy of this book from the author, through NetGalley, my review has been voluntarily submitted.

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pressing the Issue by Daryl Wood Gerber is the sixth book in A Cookbook Nook Mystery series. Jenna Hart is busy getting the Cookbook Nook ready for the Crystal Cove Renaissance Fair. I love reading about a Ren Faire encompassing a town. All elements common to cozy mysteries within the book flow seamlessly and seem quite normal within the context of Ren Faire and they just make the story so much more enjoyable. I suspect Ms. Wood Gerber did a lot of research as the realism throughout this book is amazingly portrayed and well-integrated throughout the story. The Cookbook Nook is prepared for the Ren Faire with books, crafts and food, Faire speak and costumes. Jenna, Bailey and friends worked together to make this faire spectacular. Additionally, Bailey is preparing for her wedding at Baldini Vineyards. “Bad vibes” are confirmed when, Nick, the king of the faire, is found dead. What impact with that have on her wedding and the faire? In true Jenna fashion, she can’t leave the investigation to Cinnamon and the police.

“Be careful what you wish for, it might come true.” is an example of a powerful oxymoronic and paradoxical idea. It is as central to human thought and/or experience today as it was centuries ago. Since the beginning of civilization, people have dreamed of fame or wealth or other good fortune. In one of Aesop's most popular fables, Aesop wrote, “We would often be sorry if our wishes were gratified.” Do you believe in Magic? If not, after reading this story you may believe both are a reality at the Renaissance Faire. "Pressing the Issue" skillfully combines fantasy, reality; murder, mayhem, and “can’t put the book down” reading enjoyment! I loved being introduced to the Ren Faire in Crystal Cove, and all the other village characters with descriptions so vivid that you feel as if you are there. I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves a good cozy read with a Renaissance flair and quirky characters. Ms. Wood Gerber is a superb storyteller. Mystery, humor, romance, with a delicious food (and recipes) are all blended together perfectly. This book has been pure pleasure to read. HUZZAH! Pressing the Issue is a superb book.

Disclosure: Thank you NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy I have voluntarily provided an unbiased and honest review.

[Lisa Ks Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so thrilled when I heard there was going to be another book in the Cookbook Nook Mysteries! It has been one of my favorite series since I read book one, FINAL SENTENCE. In this sixth book in the series, author Daryl Wood Gerber doesn’t disappoint!

PRESSING THE ISSUE is the perfect installment to this delightful series. All of the wonderful characters are back and at their best, this time deeply intrenched in the local Renaissance Fair. Seriously, I had a smile on my face the entire time I was reading it.

A fabulously well plotted mystery, I was so engrossed in the story, following along with, Jenna trying to figure the who and the why, that I lost all track of time and didn’t look up until I had finished the last page.

Fans of Daryl Wood Gerber, and the Cookbook Nook Mysteries, will not be disappointed. Haven’t read this series? If you love cozies, and a culinary theme, it’s time for you to get started!

Merged review:

I was so thrilled when I heard there was going to be another book in the Cookbook Nook Mysteries! It has been one of my favorite series since I read book one, FINAL SENTENCE. In this sixth book in the series, author Daryl Wood Gerber doesn’t disappoint!

PRESSING THE ISSUE is the perfect installment to this delightful series. All of the wonderful characters are back and at their best, this time deeply intrenched in the local Renaissance Fair. Seriously, I had a smile on my face the entire time I was reading it.

A fabulously well plotted mystery, I was so engrossed in the story, following along with, Jenna trying to figure the who and the why, that I lost all track of time and didn’t look up until I had finished the last page.

Fans of Daryl Wood Gerber, and the Cookbook Nook Mysteries, will not be disappointed. Haven’t read this series? If you love cozies, and a culinary theme, it’s time for you to get started!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s a lot of exciting events happening in Crystal Cove in the coming weeks. The Renaissance Fair is about to begin and Jenna has a lot of activities scheduled in the store plus has plans to participate at the pier with Rhett. Also in few weeks Bailey and Tito are getting married at Nick Baldini’s vineyard. Everyone is having fun dressing in costume and conversing in “fair speak”, but Bailey cannot shake the feeling that something bad is going to happen. Even Bailey's mother said she has a vibe of something coming. One evening after having fun at the Ren Fair the two couples (Jenna & Rhett and Bailey & Tito) go to discuss some wedding plans with Nick at the Vineyard only to stumble on his bludgeoned body. Police Chief Pritchett gives Jenna orders to stay out of the investigation but with Bailey’s wedding on the line, Jenna can’t help herself.

This book was so much fun to read. I’ve never been to a Ren Fair and reading this book makes me want to go to the next one in my area. I think it would be a lot of fun to dress in costume and speak the renaissance dialect. The plot of the murder mystery was expertly woven with twists and turns in the secondary storylines of Bailey’s wedding and Jenna and Rhett’s relationship. The characters are wonderfully entertaining and complex. The setting of the Ren Fair was a perfect compliment to Bailey’s upcoming wedding at the vineyard. This is book 6 in the series but can definitely be enjoyed as a stand-alone mystery. This is a very well written cozy with an entertaining plot and characters. I recommend this book and look forward to reading more of this series.

I was provided with an ARC of this book with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Peggy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good installment in this series

I'm a bit behind on this series but glad to be catching up. This book was an entertaining read. I love how the theme of each book revolves around a specific event taking place in Crystal Cove. However, our main character Jenna, has the worst luck ever when it comes to finding dead bodies. And when she does, she can't help herself, she has to investigate and be right in the thick of things. The secondary cast of characters is really well done. They are diverse and have depth of character. The mystery kept me guessing. The author provides plenty of suspects and does a really good job of providing clues that support any one of them as the killer. I'm happy to be catching up on this series and will be reading the next book shortly.

[Lisa B. · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a fun little cozy mystery. I liked the Renaissance fair setting and that the characters often spoke in "fair" language. The characters were fun. I enjoyed going along for the ride as Jenna and her pals work together to solve a murder mystery.

This is book #6 in the Cookbook Nook Mystery series. And while it worked well as a standalone, it was intriguing enough that I would be interested in going back to read the earlier books.

I received this book from Beyond the Page Publishing via Netgalley.

[Nichole · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a lucky thing that I really like Daryl Wood Gerber's writing. If I did not, I would have given this book a 3-star rating instead of 4. It was a close call. I simply wasn't wowed by the Renaissance fair setting in the 6th installment of the Cookbook Nook mystery series. Pressing the Issue became bogged down in all things "Ren fair," which resulted in me drudging through details of stalls, booths, wreaths, exhibits, costumes, enactments, garlands, wine presses, boxes of figurines, wire, etc. All the Ren fair passages slowed down my reading, and I finished the book in mild annoyance, miffed that Gerber didn't do better.

In spite of the setbacks, however, I was thrilled to reenter the snug and sea breezy village of Crystal Cove and its resident sleuth, cookbook store owner Jenna Hart. Gerber's writing conveys warmth well, and that magic touch is what keeps me glued to the series, no matter what. Like my other favorite authors Alexia Gordon, Kathleen Bridge, and Abby Collette, Daryl Wood Gerber is terrific at crafting snuggly, yet smart whodunits. I will stick with her. And them.

4 stars (almost 3)

[Denise King · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was delighted to read this book. It is character driven, with the Renaissance Fair the main "character", but the plot holds it's own. You are kept guessing as to the identity of the killer to the very end as everyone guards their more innocent secrets, churning the waters of clues to almost let the killer get away. Looking forward to more.

[Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is my first visit to Crystal Cove and the Renaissance fair in this Cookbook Nook Mystery series. Jenna owns the small bookstore and is happy preparing not only for the fair but her best friend, Bailey's wedding set to take place at the local vineyard. When the girls finds the vineyard owner dead it puts on damper on the wedding plans. There are a lot of suspects and Jenna is strongly discouraged to not investigate by the local police. The required cute cat is present at the book store and the mystery is pretty good. I haven't read the previous 5 books in the series but this one stood alone pretty well. I received a this free ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's Renaissance Fair time in Crystal Cove, California. Just about everyone in town is in the spirit and embracing the trip back to medieval times - especially the fair Maid Marian and Robin Hood, also known as Jenna and Rhett! All the squires, serfs, noblemen and noblewomen are having a wonderful time until Nick Baldini, local vintner and the man in charge of the Ren Fair, is found murdered at his home by Jenna and her bestie Bailey when they stop by to discuss Bailey's upcoming nuptials. Cue Jenna's guilt over the fact that ever since she moved back to town murders are happening at an alarming rate, but she quickly gets over that and starts her investigation into who could've committed this dastardly deed! Was it a visitor to the fair? Was it a town resident?? Was it a family member??? Love is in the air, as well, and it looks as if Bailey and Tito aren't the only couple who'll be headed down the aisle soon!

Pressing the Issue is the 6th book in Daryl Wood Gerber's Cookbook Nook series, and I really enjoy the "themes" of this series, and that each book is so different from the last. Nicely written, kept me guessing as to the who and why, and lots of fun recipes and book recommendations included! A+

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good one!

I really enjoy this series. A ren fair is always a fun setting and I loved that the whole town got involved and was in costume. Lots of good investigating going on and the story was fun. Recipes included at the end.

[Patricia Romero · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh to be in Crystal Cove at the Ren Fair! The entire town gets into the fun with booths and special faire events. Jenna is busy with her own shop as well as helping Bailey with her wedding which is supposed to take place at Nick's vineyard.

Love is definitely in the air with more than one couple getting shot with Cupid's arrow, but some couples aren't all they appear to be. Could one of them be the killer? There are suspects coming out of the woodwork and everyone is acting oddly, even the cat!

If you haven't tried this author, please do! The recipes are drool worthy and Crystal Cove is worth dropping in on!

February 20th 2018 by Beyond The Page   NetGalley Review

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was fantastic to be back in Crystal Cove with Jenna and Bailey for the Renaissance Faire.
The Cookbook Nook is geared up for the Renaissance Faire with books, crafts and food, and all are in costumes as well.
Bailey is excited preparing for her wedding at Baldini Vineyards.
When a death occurs at Baldini Vineyards, Bailey is upset as her wedding will not take place. Can she find a new venue on short notice?
Jenna has said she will leave the investigation to Cinnamon and the police, but no matter how she tries she just can’t stay out of it.
Another wonderful book written by Daryl Wood Gerber.

Thank you NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
Thank you Daryl Wood Gerber for another fun trip to Crystal Cove.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first book I've read by Daryl Wood Gerber and the first I've read in this series. I found this book a little hard to get going with and get a roll on reading but I'm not really sure why. The writing was definitely good and and she had likable main and supporting characters and an interesting setting (a Ren Faire) and I was able to follow the story very well, even without having read the preceding books in this series, and even though I wouldn't normally jump in with book 6 of an established series. So that was another definite plus for me. However the second half of the book went like gangbusters for me and I finished that in just a few hours. I had the killer pegged from pretty early on but much of the draw for me is seeing how the author gets us to that point and (hopefully) gives us the clues to solve the mystery ourselves. I always feel vindicated when I'm correct and still feel satisfied even when I am not correct, because that means the author was able to put one over on me, something I consider hard to do with such an avid and life-long mystery reader such as myself.

This was a very enjoyable read and I liked the book very much. I liked it so much that I look forward to discovering both the previous and continuing books in the Cookbook Nook series, as well as reading Mrs. Gerber's other cozy works. I received an ARC of this title via Netgalley but all reviews written by me are done so voluntarily.

[Cherry London · Rating 4 out of 5]

A mild yet interesting mystery with a few clouded moments, Jenna is a sleuth to her heart she just can’t help it when it comes to knowing what’s going on. This attitude gets her in the out the with the chief of police and even her father, but the girl can’t help it she is just a curious sort just like her cat Tigger. 
Getting to the truth as to who killed Nick their friend was a priority for Jenna and her friends, to them the police was moving way too slow. Through her diligence and need to know she was able to figure out the truth before it was too late and a murderer escapes a second time around. The storyline is intriguing and somewhat captivating with great characters, a mild yet engaging cozy mystery.

[Leith Devine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth book in the Cookbook Nook series, and I enjoyed it very much. Jenna Hart is busy getting ready for the annual Renaissance Faire in Crystal Cove, and she's got a lot on her plate. because her friend Bailey is about to get married at Baldini Vineyards. When Bailey gets a frantic message from Nick Baldini, she and Jenna go there to find his dead body. The police chief, and Jenna's friend, Cinnamon, warns Jenna to stay out of the investigation but as she has in the past Jenna can't help but get involved.

I loved the Renaissance Faire setting and description in this book! The characters were fun and interesting as well. I highly recommend this book.

Thanks to Beyond the Page Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.