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A Southern Cake Baker Mystery #2
Batter Off Dead
For fans of Joanne Fluke and Leslie Meier comes the second in Maymee Bell’s delectable Southern Cake Baker mysteries.
Vanquishing the villain who vitiated a village vintner vexes vaunted pastry chef Sophia Cummings in this sweetly sinister second Southern Cake Baker mystery.
Sophia Cummings may be unlucky in love, but she knows that the way to a man's heart is through his sweet tooth. This evening, she plans to use that knowledge—and her skills as a New York City-trained pastry chef—to open the hearts and wallets of Rumford, Kentucky’s richest men. Sophia, proprietress of For Goodness Cakes, has been commissioned to cater the Heart of the Town Library charity fundraiser at Grape Valley Winery. She’s spent all her dough to make this a successful event, raise her profile, and win more plum catering jobs.
At first, the going is as smooth as an elegant chocolate ganache. After nibbling Sophia’s tasty treats, Ray Peel, the winery’s landlord, announces he will pay off Rumford’s library loan. But the evening soon turns decidedly frosty when Ray is murdered—before he can make good on his promise, and before he can pay Sophia for her catering services.
For Goodness Cakes will collapse if Sophia can’t collect what she’s owed. So Sophia once again puts on her sleuthing apron to figure out who iced Ray. A glass of your favorite red or white is the perfect accompaniment to Maymee Bell’s scrumptious Batter Off Dead―with authentic Southern recipes!
Vanquishing the villain who vitiated a village vintner vexes vaunted pastry chef Sophia Cummings in this sweetly sinister second Southern Cake Baker mystery.
Sophia Cummings may be unlucky in love, but she knows that the way to a man's heart is through his sweet tooth. This evening, she plans to use that knowledge—and her skills as a New York City-trained pastry chef—to open the hearts and wallets of Rumford, Kentucky’s richest men. Sophia, proprietress of For Goodness Cakes, has been commissioned to cater the Heart of the Town Library charity fundraiser at Grape Valley Winery. She’s spent all her dough to make this a successful event, raise her profile, and win more plum catering jobs.
At first, the going is as smooth as an elegant chocolate ganache. After nibbling Sophia’s tasty treats, Ray Peel, the winery’s landlord, announces he will pay off Rumford’s library loan. But the evening soon turns decidedly frosty when Ray is murdered—before he can make good on his promise, and before he can pay Sophia for her catering services.
For Goodness Cakes will collapse if Sophia can’t collect what she’s owed. So Sophia once again puts on her sleuthing apron to figure out who iced Ray. A glass of your favorite red or white is the perfect accompaniment to Maymee Bell’s scrumptious Batter Off Dead―with authentic Southern recipes!
304 pages, Hardcover
First published December 11, 2018
66 people are currently reading
463 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
July 10, 2020
Newest Adventure details:
Where: Rumford, Kentucky
Who: Sophia
When I found out I was returning to Rumford for a visit I was super excited. This would be my first visit since Sophia decided to stay in her hometown and open her bakery “For Goodness Cakes”. When I arrived, she was heading to Heart of the Town Library charity fundraiser at Grape Valley Winery...where she was catering the affair. Ray Peel an investor in the winery pledged a half a million-dollar donation to the library remodel and expansion. HALF A MILLION!! During the evening he was seen in a heated argument with Kat from the library. Later Kat informed us he admitted he could not give her the promised donation. Kat was obviously very upset. When the conversation ended Sophia wanted to go to the office and request payment for her catering services. As we were walking through the vineyards chatting about grapes Sophia tripped and face planted….right on top of Ray’s dead body. Despite there being suspects galore... one hit close to home for Sophia her close friend Madison is at the top of the list. Yep...you guessed it….before I knew it we were looking for the truth of what really happened to Ray…
My thoughts:
Listened to this book on audio for the “hooked on books” feature of my blog, so make sure you check out the blanket that accompanied this read (it’s my favorite that I have made!). The narrator did a fine job...not fabulous but definitely not terrible.
Again, this series whipped up a winning recipe! Loved the characters, southern charm, the baking, and recipes! Of course, the mystery was good with lots of suspects and plenty of surprises and missteps along the way. For me this book has all the great components of a cozy...small-town close-knit community, food, great quirky characters, and lots of humor!
If you are a cozy lover, you need to get yourself a glass of southern sweet iced tea, one of Sophia’s delicious treats (recipes included), and sink your teeth into this series!
For more book fun subscribe to my blog at@ http://beachbumbookworm.com/.
Where: Rumford, Kentucky
Who: Sophia
When I found out I was returning to Rumford for a visit I was super excited. This would be my first visit since Sophia decided to stay in her hometown and open her bakery “For Goodness Cakes”. When I arrived, she was heading to Heart of the Town Library charity fundraiser at Grape Valley Winery...where she was catering the affair. Ray Peel an investor in the winery pledged a half a million-dollar donation to the library remodel and expansion. HALF A MILLION!! During the evening he was seen in a heated argument with Kat from the library. Later Kat informed us he admitted he could not give her the promised donation. Kat was obviously very upset. When the conversation ended Sophia wanted to go to the office and request payment for her catering services. As we were walking through the vineyards chatting about grapes Sophia tripped and face planted….right on top of Ray’s dead body. Despite there being suspects galore... one hit close to home for Sophia her close friend Madison is at the top of the list. Yep...you guessed it….before I knew it we were looking for the truth of what really happened to Ray…
My thoughts:
Listened to this book on audio for the “hooked on books” feature of my blog, so make sure you check out the blanket that accompanied this read (it’s my favorite that I have made!). The narrator did a fine job...not fabulous but definitely not terrible.
Again, this series whipped up a winning recipe! Loved the characters, southern charm, the baking, and recipes! Of course, the mystery was good with lots of suspects and plenty of surprises and missteps along the way. For me this book has all the great components of a cozy...small-town close-knit community, food, great quirky characters, and lots of humor!
If you are a cozy lover, you need to get yourself a glass of southern sweet iced tea, one of Sophia’s delicious treats (recipes included), and sink your teeth into this series!
For more book fun subscribe to my blog at@ http://beachbumbookworm.com/.
November 15, 2018
BATTER OFF DEAD will have you craving something sweet and wanting to bake one of several recipes shared by the author after the story ends. Bakery owner, Sophia Cummings has found her niche in a charming southern Kentucky town where she bakes pastries to her hearts content at For Goodness Cakes. While catering a fundraiser for a new addition to the local library, Sophia is as shocked as everyone else when a wealthy patron withdraws his half-a-million dollar pledge at the last minute. She’s even more shocked when she stumbles over a body shortly thereafter! The victim managed to aggravate a lot of people making the suspect list plentiful; however, one of Sophie’s closest friends, Madison, a realtor, seems to be at the top of the list.
Sophia’s boyfriend, Sheriff Carter Kincaid, asks her to stay out of the investigation when her shop and home are invaded. Stubborn and determined to clear her friend’s name, Sophie continues sleuthing until the killer confronts her face-to-face with the intent to silence her forever.
This delightful cozy is a treat to read! It flows fast and smooth. Sophie is a wonderful protagonist. The supporting cast is easy to like and there’s almost always something baking. Mmmm. The killer was right before my very eyes and I didn’t even realize who it was until the author reveal. I really enjoyed this book.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane. Thank you.
Sophia’s boyfriend, Sheriff Carter Kincaid, asks her to stay out of the investigation when her shop and home are invaded. Stubborn and determined to clear her friend’s name, Sophie continues sleuthing until the killer confronts her face-to-face with the intent to silence her forever.
This delightful cozy is a treat to read! It flows fast and smooth. Sophie is a wonderful protagonist. The supporting cast is easy to like and there’s almost always something baking. Mmmm. The killer was right before my very eyes and I didn’t even realize who it was until the author reveal. I really enjoyed this book.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane. Thank you.
November 7, 2024
Batter Off Dead by Maymee Bell, aka Tonya Kappes
Southern Cake Baker mystery series #2. Cozy mystery style. Can be read as a stand-alone but if reading as a series, should be read in order.
Sophia Cummings is a New York trained pastry chef. She’s moved home to Rumford, Kentucky and started a small business called For Goodness Cakes. She had been hired to cater a local charity event that goes drastically wrong when the major donor is murdered and Sophia ends up tripping over the body. Sophia hasn’t been paid for the event and needs those funds, so puts on her sleuthing apron to figure out the killer.
Fun twists and many secondary characters make this cozy an amusing read if you can keep track of everyone. That’s typical of cozies so not unexpected and here, the personalities practically jump off the page.
Recipes included in the ebook.
Southern Cake Baker mystery series #2. Cozy mystery style. Can be read as a stand-alone but if reading as a series, should be read in order.
Sophia Cummings is a New York trained pastry chef. She’s moved home to Rumford, Kentucky and started a small business called For Goodness Cakes. She had been hired to cater a local charity event that goes drastically wrong when the major donor is murdered and Sophia ends up tripping over the body. Sophia hasn’t been paid for the event and needs those funds, so puts on her sleuthing apron to figure out the killer.
Fun twists and many secondary characters make this cozy an amusing read if you can keep track of everyone. That’s typical of cozies so not unexpected and here, the personalities practically jump off the page.
Recipes included in the ebook.
December 29, 2018
Dollycas’s Thoughts
For Goodness Cakes is open for business and Sophia Cummings is doing everything to build her clientele and bring in customers. She is thrilled to be catering the desserts at the Heart of the Town Library charity fundraiser at Grape Valley Winery. The library is planning a huge addition and most of the money has been pledged by Ray Peel. He is the winery’s landlord and has his hands in many other businesses in the area.
Shortly after the fundraiser begins he informs the librarian he will no longer be funding the renovations, insults local realtor and Sophie’s friend, Madison Ridge, has an argument with woman in town for a wine conference, and tells Giles Dugan owner of Grape Valley Winery that he will not be renewing their lease and plans to shut them down at the conclusion of the night’s event.
Sophia thinks with all the chaos caused by Mr. Peel she’s better get her money for her part of the fundraiser as soon as possible. On her way to the main office, she trips over something and comes face to face with a very dead Ray Peel. She quickly makes a call to boyfriend, Sheriff Carter Kincaid who does his best to calm her down. After looking at the crime scene and interviewing witnesses he decides Sophie’s friend, Madison is his prime suspect. Seriously?? For Goodness Sakes! This put Sophie into a tizzy and she proclaims she will do everything she can to prove her friend had nothing to do with that man’s demise.
I was having a stressful day, my husband was having a long and complicated surgery and I really needed something to keep my mind off that and watching the clock. I can say this book was just what I needed. Maymee Bell’s (Tonya Kappes) story worked on me just like A Calgon, take me away bath. Of course, I had to keep my giggling internal because the waiting room was full of people, but I did share bits with the woman sitting close to me. She was quick to write down the author and the title as well as some of the author’s other books I told her about. 🙂
Maymee Bell has a distinctive voice and she creates such unique characters. Sophie softens up the suspects with treats from her shop to get them to talk. Carter is not happy with her “help” and sometimes she tells him her plan and then does the complete opposite that frustrates him to no end. At least he knows from the start, she is going to butt in, especially with her best friend involved. Sophia’s mother, Bitsy, just cracks me up. She was my favorite in this story. The dialogue between all the characters is very comfortable which makes the story so easy to read.
Solving this mystery wasn’t easy. It was fun to follow along with Sophie as Operation Merlot was put into effect and suspects were crossed off the “murder board”. The story was very well-plotted with plenty of red herrings. I was totally surprised by the ending.
Engaging characters and a delightful mystery. A truly Perfect Escape for me. Thank you, Ms. Bell, your story was just what the doctor ordered. The pages flew and so did my day.
For Goodness Cakes is open for business and Sophia Cummings is doing everything to build her clientele and bring in customers. She is thrilled to be catering the desserts at the Heart of the Town Library charity fundraiser at Grape Valley Winery. The library is planning a huge addition and most of the money has been pledged by Ray Peel. He is the winery’s landlord and has his hands in many other businesses in the area.
Shortly after the fundraiser begins he informs the librarian he will no longer be funding the renovations, insults local realtor and Sophie’s friend, Madison Ridge, has an argument with woman in town for a wine conference, and tells Giles Dugan owner of Grape Valley Winery that he will not be renewing their lease and plans to shut them down at the conclusion of the night’s event.
Sophia thinks with all the chaos caused by Mr. Peel she’s better get her money for her part of the fundraiser as soon as possible. On her way to the main office, she trips over something and comes face to face with a very dead Ray Peel. She quickly makes a call to boyfriend, Sheriff Carter Kincaid who does his best to calm her down. After looking at the crime scene and interviewing witnesses he decides Sophie’s friend, Madison is his prime suspect. Seriously?? For Goodness Sakes! This put Sophie into a tizzy and she proclaims she will do everything she can to prove her friend had nothing to do with that man’s demise.
I was having a stressful day, my husband was having a long and complicated surgery and I really needed something to keep my mind off that and watching the clock. I can say this book was just what I needed. Maymee Bell’s (Tonya Kappes) story worked on me just like A Calgon, take me away bath. Of course, I had to keep my giggling internal because the waiting room was full of people, but I did share bits with the woman sitting close to me. She was quick to write down the author and the title as well as some of the author’s other books I told her about. 🙂
Maymee Bell has a distinctive voice and she creates such unique characters. Sophie softens up the suspects with treats from her shop to get them to talk. Carter is not happy with her “help” and sometimes she tells him her plan and then does the complete opposite that frustrates him to no end. At least he knows from the start, she is going to butt in, especially with her best friend involved. Sophia’s mother, Bitsy, just cracks me up. She was my favorite in this story. The dialogue between all the characters is very comfortable which makes the story so easy to read.
Solving this mystery wasn’t easy. It was fun to follow along with Sophie as Operation Merlot was put into effect and suspects were crossed off the “murder board”. The story was very well-plotted with plenty of red herrings. I was totally surprised by the ending.
Engaging characters and a delightful mystery. A truly Perfect Escape for me. Thank you, Ms. Bell, your story was just what the doctor ordered. The pages flew and so did my day.
January 13, 2019
This book is an amazing source of cake recipes, which I enjoyed very much. Sophia is taking care of the sweets for an event, but when a body is found at the event things are getting complicated.
Thank you Netgalley for this nice cozy mystery.
Thank you Netgalley for this nice cozy mystery.
January 6, 2019
I really loved the first book in this series when I read it last year, so I knew the second book wouldn't disappoint, and it sure didn't! I didn't want my visit to Rumford, KY to end!
Sophia was hired to do the dessert catering at a library and winery event. When she found the former benefactor to the library dead by the vineyard and one of her best friends was the prime suspect in the murder, Sophia knew she'd never be able to leave this one alone. It's a good thing Carter loves her so much, or he'd have been furious at her a few times. He did continue to give her warnings. There was a little side story of Sophia wanting to make the famous donut recipe that the bakery before she bought it was known for. After that, her house was broken into, and someone threw a rock through the bakery window. Could it be the killer wanting her to back off investigating?
I get such a kick out of Bitsy, Sophia's Southern mama. She even got into the whole investigating this time and went as far as calling it Operation Merlot. I love how fiercely loyal Sophia is, not only to to her close friends, but the entire town. I had absolutely no clue who the killer was until the last minute at the showdown, which was excellent. The library got a happy ending as did everyone else, but I especially love it when a library gets a happy ending! I can't wait for the next book!
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
Sophia was hired to do the dessert catering at a library and winery event. When she found the former benefactor to the library dead by the vineyard and one of her best friends was the prime suspect in the murder, Sophia knew she'd never be able to leave this one alone. It's a good thing Carter loves her so much, or he'd have been furious at her a few times. He did continue to give her warnings. There was a little side story of Sophia wanting to make the famous donut recipe that the bakery before she bought it was known for. After that, her house was broken into, and someone threw a rock through the bakery window. Could it be the killer wanting her to back off investigating?
I get such a kick out of Bitsy, Sophia's Southern mama. She even got into the whole investigating this time and went as far as calling it Operation Merlot. I love how fiercely loyal Sophia is, not only to to her close friends, but the entire town. I had absolutely no clue who the killer was until the last minute at the showdown, which was excellent. The library got a happy ending as did everyone else, but I especially love it when a library gets a happy ending! I can't wait for the next book!
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
December 22, 2018
Batter Off Dead is a fun cozy read that takes place in a small town in Kentucky. Sophia Cummings returned home after going to culinary school and working in New York City as a pastry chef. She opened a bakery called For Goodness Cakes where she and one of her best friends, Charlotte, create some yummy sounding desserts. For Goodness Cakes was hired to make treats for a fundraiser for the town library at a local winery where a wealthy local businessman, Ray Peel, has pledged to donate a half million dollars for renovations to the library. Ray owns the land that the winery and vineyard are on. But Sophia literally stumbled upon Ray's body in the vineyard during the festivities. There are several possible suspects who Sophia saw arguing with Ray before the event started but her boyfriend, Sheriff Carter Kincaid, thinks that Sophia's close friend, Madison, is the prime suspect. Madison is a realtor and had been hired by Ray to try to sell the land that the winery and vineyard is on but Ray decided that she was too small town for selling his property. The two were seen arguing and Madison threatened him. But the Giles father and daughter team that own the winery have reason because Ray had decided to end their lease that night. Sophia, Madison, Charlotte and Sophia's mother, Bitsy, organize Operation Merlot to find the killer among all of the various people who were unhappy with Ray.
Sophia sets out talking to any and everyone that she can conceive has a motive or may know someone who might want Ray dead. She uses treats from the bakery help smooth the way to butter folks up and get them to talk, much to Carter's distress. He tries to rein her in but Sophia has a mind of her own when it comes to saving her friend. Filled with lots of quirky small town characters, delightful sounding treats and funny dialect, Batter Off Dead is great mystery that is engaging from beginning to end, especially with an unexpected twist at the end.
I received a complimentary ARC from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley. The thoughts and opinions stated are mine only.
Sophia sets out talking to any and everyone that she can conceive has a motive or may know someone who might want Ray dead. She uses treats from the bakery help smooth the way to butter folks up and get them to talk, much to Carter's distress. He tries to rein her in but Sophia has a mind of her own when it comes to saving her friend. Filled with lots of quirky small town characters, delightful sounding treats and funny dialect, Batter Off Dead is great mystery that is engaging from beginning to end, especially with an unexpected twist at the end.
I received a complimentary ARC from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley. The thoughts and opinions stated are mine only.
January 27, 2019
This book was refreshing! I remembered how and why I love cozies so much. The plot was wonderful and kept me guessing (wrongly most of the time). The characters were believable and the setting was beautiful. I am now going back to the first in the series and will continue reading this series!
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review of this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review of this book.
May 8, 2019
Batter Off Dead is the second book in Maymee Bell's A Southern Baker Mystery Series. Sophia Cummings has moved back to her hometown of Rumford, Kentucky to open the small town bakery of her dreams. While working at the Heart of the Town fundraiser for the local library, Sophia stumbles across the dead body of one of the wealthiest men in town, who made a lot of financial commitments along with a lot of broken promises. When her best friend is suspected of the crime, Sophia investigates to clear her friend's name.
I had a very difficult time deciding upon a rating for this book. I am a huge fan of culinary cozy mysteries. I have read all of Joanne Fluke, Joanna Carl, and too many more series to list here. I want to be a fan of this series too. I like the characters. I like the town of Rumford, Kentucky. I like For Goodness Cakes (Sophia's bakery). I love the South and the authentic southern touches that Bell adds to this series.
However, Crooked Lane REALLY needs to get Bell a better editor. There were numerous mistakes in the book - is it the Benton, Berstein, or Benson estate? It is listed as all three within two chapters. At one point Sophia is investigating at the library in one chapter, but the very next chapter begins with, "I'd decided to stop by the Ford's house first, then head to the library afterward." Some clues are revealed multiple times as if they are new each time. I could go on here, but you get the point. I feel this is a disturbing trend in cozy mysteries where sloppy editing is becoming the new normal, and that is not okay.
Additionally, Sophia is a classically trained pastry chef, who was working in New York City as the head pasty chef of a very posh restaurant. There are several times in the series where she uses a pre-made ingredient like pie crust or store bought cookie dough. I just don't find that believable. Also Sophia is so busy investigating the murder that she leaves her friend, Charlotte, who has only been a home baker, in charge of the bakery. It seemed like Charlotte did more of the baking than Sophia, including a fancy birthday cake that is important to the storyline. Again, I just don't find that believable.
Overall, I will give this series another chance when the next book comes out because there is a lot of potential here. But if the editing of that book is as sloppy as this book, it will probably be the last one I read in the series.
I had a very difficult time deciding upon a rating for this book. I am a huge fan of culinary cozy mysteries. I have read all of Joanne Fluke, Joanna Carl, and too many more series to list here. I want to be a fan of this series too. I like the characters. I like the town of Rumford, Kentucky. I like For Goodness Cakes (Sophia's bakery). I love the South and the authentic southern touches that Bell adds to this series.
However, Crooked Lane REALLY needs to get Bell a better editor. There were numerous mistakes in the book - is it the Benton, Berstein, or Benson estate? It is listed as all three within two chapters. At one point Sophia is investigating at the library in one chapter, but the very next chapter begins with, "I'd decided to stop by the Ford's house first, then head to the library afterward." Some clues are revealed multiple times as if they are new each time. I could go on here, but you get the point. I feel this is a disturbing trend in cozy mysteries where sloppy editing is becoming the new normal, and that is not okay.
Additionally, Sophia is a classically trained pastry chef, who was working in New York City as the head pasty chef of a very posh restaurant. There are several times in the series where she uses a pre-made ingredient like pie crust or store bought cookie dough. I just don't find that believable. Also Sophia is so busy investigating the murder that she leaves her friend, Charlotte, who has only been a home baker, in charge of the bakery. It seemed like Charlotte did more of the baking than Sophia, including a fancy birthday cake that is important to the storyline. Again, I just don't find that believable.
Overall, I will give this series another chance when the next book comes out because there is a lot of potential here. But if the editing of that book is as sloppy as this book, it will probably be the last one I read in the series.
November 19, 2018
Batter Off Dead is Book 2 in the Southern Cake Baker Mystery Series.
Be sure not to miss some of the fantastic recipe that the author shares at the end of the book.
In this second installment, bakery owner Sophia Cummings lives in a quaint southern town in Kentucky where she operates her bakery business creating all kinds of delectable treats at For Goodness Cakes. Sophia is catering a fundraiser for the library when one of the well-off patrons withdraws his rather large (HALF MILLION DOLLARS) contribution at the last minute.
Next thing you know, Sophia stumbles over his dead body and the suspects are many but her best friend Madison is the top suspect.
This book is so good I never wanted it to END! Sophia is a fantastic protagonist and she was always baking up a treat that had my mouth watering. I really enjoyed this book and when the killer was revealed my jaw dropped, literally! Such a great mix of well developed characters, strong plot and a setting that will leave you hungry for more.
Be sure not to miss some of the fantastic recipe that the author shares at the end of the book.
In this second installment, bakery owner Sophia Cummings lives in a quaint southern town in Kentucky where she operates her bakery business creating all kinds of delectable treats at For Goodness Cakes. Sophia is catering a fundraiser for the library when one of the well-off patrons withdraws his rather large (HALF MILLION DOLLARS) contribution at the last minute.
Next thing you know, Sophia stumbles over his dead body and the suspects are many but her best friend Madison is the top suspect.
This book is so good I never wanted it to END! Sophia is a fantastic protagonist and she was always baking up a treat that had my mouth watering. I really enjoyed this book and when the killer was revealed my jaw dropped, literally! Such a great mix of well developed characters, strong plot and a setting that will leave you hungry for more.
January 21, 2019
Sophia is busy dating the sheriff, running her new bakery, and riding herd on her bossy Mama Bitsy, but when one of her friends becomes the main suspect in a murder case, she's all in, interviewing suspects and being threatened. Ray Peel was a local boy made good, but he was known for making--and breaking--promises. Apparently, his wicked ways caught up with him at the library fundraiser at the winery he rented to his best friend's family. But Sophia is sure that real estate agent Madison had nothing to do with his death. I found the style a little cloying (as was also true in the first in this series), but Sophia can learn something on one page, only to be surprised to hear about it two pages later, which is just plain sloppy writing and/or editing.
May 4, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed the first in this series, and while this was a good story, as well, I found that the author did not continue the series as well as she should have. For example, in the first book, Sophia's (the protagonist) father is John, but in this book, his name is Robert. It was little things like this that kept tripping me up as I read this tale.
November 26, 2018
Batter Off Dead by Maymee Bell, aka Tonya Kappes, is the 2nd book in A Southern Cake Baker Mystery series, and it is wonderful. Sophia Cummings worked as a pastry chef in New York City, but when she catches her boyfriend, a chef, cheating with their co-worker she goes back home to Rumford, Kentucky and opens For Goodness Cakes. Sophia is catering a fund raiser for the library, when she finds the Winery's landlord, Ray Peel, dead. Peel had reneged on promises, of money, so he was not popular. When Sophia's best friend is the prime suspect, she rushes to find the real killer. I strongly recommend this book. This book is a quick read, that I could not put down. I am anxiously waiting the next adventure for Sophia.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 10, 2020
Sophia Cummings is finally seeing her dream come true opening a bakery in her hometown of Rumford, Kentucky (much to her mother's dismay). Sophia discovers the previous bakery owners' journal of recipes tucked away in a drawer and is hoping to recreate the memories of everyone's favorite Maple Long John doughnuts if Mrs. Ford will grant her permission. Easier said that done as Mrs. Ford is not available when Sophia calls. Sophia is also hoping to drum up business by donating some of her treats to the Rumford Library fundraiser in honor of their brand new addition held at a local winery. Sadly for the library, the wealthy businessman who promises a $500,000 donation reneges on his promise and librarian Cat Fraxman is spitting mad. No only that, Ray Peel is going to sell the land out from under the local winery owners without giving them the chance to buy and has the gall to insult Madison, one of Sophia's best friends, a real estate agent. Madison was counting on the commission from the sale of the land to buy a new car for her family. As Sophia leaves the winery grounds to pick up her money from the office, she stumbled over Ray's dead body. No one is more shocked to see him dead than Sophia, even after learning of Ray's perfidy. When her friend Madison becomes the chief suspect, Sophia is determined to clear her friend's name. Forming a partnership with her mother and two best friends, Sophia makes her suspect list and looks for clues even when danger lurks around the corner and her boyfriend, the sheriff asks her to stop. Sophia won't stop until Madison is no longer first on Carter's list of murderers.
I enjoyed this book more than the first one in the series. I had my list of suspects, similar to Sophia's but neither of us ever guessed who the real murderer was or why! The motive for murder seemed a little odd to me but it made sense to the killer. There is a secondary mystery and whether it's connected to the first, I won't say but I did figure out something about who. I especially liked the library fundraiser and wish my community had come together like that to save my neighborhood library when it closed. There are some inconsistencies in this novel at the end. Benson estate is mistakenly referred to as "Bernstein" twice and the big incongruity is at the end when
The victim, Ray Peel, was not a nice guy. He was a ruthless businessman who broke promises and plowed over anything that stood in his way. He had a grand plan that is not even believable, in my opinion.
Sophia, Sophia, Sophia. What to say about Sophia? Sophia is super crazy for investigating on her own even after Carter tells her multiple times it's dangerous and he wants her to be safe. I didn't like that about Sophia. She's stubborn and stupid sometimes. The baking part of the story is a little less prominent than in the first book. She bakes things off page to bring to various events. I'm confused as to how Sophia hopes to stay in business if she keeps giving away her baked goods for free. No, Sophia, the lame-o Cafe Italia is NOT what Italy looks like. No self-respecting REAL Italian restaurant has red and white checked tablecloths, singing waiters, fried ravioli or spaghetti and meatballs. I would have expected a trained pastry chef to have at least visited Paris! Sophia is such a snob about baking-she turns her nose up at the grocery store bakery yet she happily eats spaghetti and meatballs? That doesn't make sense. She should know good food. Not that I don't enjoy Italian-American dishes but I'm not a chef, just a granddaughter of an Italian baker and cook. One good thing Sophia has going for her is her loyalty. However, she could have been kinder to Cat. I did not suspect Cat at all because I thought Sophia was her friend. Sophia does not act like a good friend to Cat in this novel.
Sophia's mother Bitsy drives me crazy. There's much more to life for women these days besides marriage. Sophia is a happy, confident, successful businesswoman and on one hand Bitsy is proud of Sophia but on the other, Bitsy is hearing wedding bells and a biological clock ticking. Bitsy and Sophia act like sisters sometimes more than mother and daughter. I don't like their relationship. Bitsy also drives me crazy because she doesn't actually DO anything. She belongs to numerous committees and clubs but why is she in the garden club if she refuses to get her hands dirty? I would run away to New York too if Bitsy were my mother.
Poor Cat. She is dedicated to the library. It's her passion, her life, her second home. Her parents understand this and are willing to do what it takes to help achieve her dream to help the community. Her parents sound like amazing people. Cat can be bitter and sarcastic at times but only because she is upset. She was more charming in the first book. Madison is still tough as nails but not as bullying here. I feel sorry for her being accused of murder and losing business because of it. That shouldn't happen and like Sophia, I knew she didn't do it. She specifically said "If I weren't a nice southern girl...". By that definition, Cat didn't do it either, or Charlotte, who is suddenly a fabulous baker in her own right and running the shop for Sophia. I liked their close relationship but Sophia isn't achieving her dream by not baking for the community and not seeing their reactions.
Reba Gunther, secretary at the winery, is on Sophia's list of suspects. I suspected her right away. She seems to be hiding something and knows everything that goes on in the winery office. Reba seems nice so if she did kill Ray, she was driven to it. Perhaps because she'd be out of a job if he sells the winery land and the winery closes? Perhaps there's another reason. The clue is there but I forgot all about it. The Dugan family own the winery. It's new and wine making is new to Kentucky. The winery is successful and everyone loves it but they'll lose their business and their money if the property is sold out from under them. Giles must be very angry at Ray for destroying his business. His daughter Tammy sounds spoiled and whiny even though she comes from nothing. She's gotten used to money. She seems shifty to me, even taking off with the check book before paying Sophia. Hmm... what about her son who was accepted to Harvard and can't go if his mother doesn't have a job? What about her brother Perry, the lawyer for the winery, who certainly must have known what Ray was up to. He seems nice and I always suspect nice businessmen and lawyers. I don't trust them.
A stranger, Lanie Truvinski, breezes into town, demands Sophia bake pastries for her event and breezes out of the shop. She was seen arguing with Ray before his death and witnesses nearly got ran off the road by a silver car. Lanie drives a silver car. I don't like her at all. She's one of those pushy, rude, city businesspeople who think they can do what they want if they toss enough money around. At least she alone pays Sophia in advance.
Other characters include Lizbeth, the newspaper editor. She's very intense. She'll do anything for a story, even lie a bit or print something without a person's knowledge or consent. Lizbeth's ethics are a bit shady. I didn't like how she kept badgering Sophia and putting words in Sophia's mouth. Carter, the sheriff and Sophia's boyfriend, is a sweetheart. He's very kind and caring, but I don't think Sophia should be dating a cop if she's going to continue investigating murders. That's unethical and he won't want her in danger. She needs a man who will support her efforts at sleuthing and help her, or better yet, no man at all. Dixie Ford is the kind lady who owned the Rumford bakery when Sophia was growing up. Dixie is a wizard in the kitchen and a sweet little old lady. I don't know what went wrong with her daughter but some teen girls just rebel and don't ever settle down. I feel sorry for Dixie's granddaughter. How old is she supposed to be? What happened to Mr. Ford because everyone kept saying "The Fords retired" as in both of them are still living. Is he just not home at that moment? Clarice Covington, the bed and breakfast owner, is a private woman. Her passion is her garden and she's willing to participate in a slightly shady scheme. Could she be a murderer? She's not on Sophia's list but she does have a motive.
Not only did I enjoy the novel, but I enjoyed reading some of the recipes. I was hoping for the "Heart of Rumford" cookie because I really wanted to make them for my family for personal reasons.
I enjoyed this book more than the first one in the series. I had my list of suspects, similar to Sophia's but neither of us ever guessed who the real murderer was or why! The motive for murder seemed a little odd to me but it made sense to the killer. There is a secondary mystery and whether it's connected to the first, I won't say but I did figure out something about who. I especially liked the library fundraiser and wish my community had come together like that to save my neighborhood library when it closed. There are some inconsistencies in this novel at the end. Benson estate is mistakenly referred to as "Bernstein" twice and the big incongruity is at the end when
The victim, Ray Peel, was not a nice guy. He was a ruthless businessman who broke promises and plowed over anything that stood in his way. He had a grand plan that is not even believable, in my opinion.
Sophia, Sophia, Sophia. What to say about Sophia? Sophia is super crazy for investigating on her own even after Carter tells her multiple times it's dangerous and he wants her to be safe. I didn't like that about Sophia. She's stubborn and stupid sometimes. The baking part of the story is a little less prominent than in the first book. She bakes things off page to bring to various events. I'm confused as to how Sophia hopes to stay in business if she keeps giving away her baked goods for free. No, Sophia, the lame-o Cafe Italia is NOT what Italy looks like. No self-respecting REAL Italian restaurant has red and white checked tablecloths, singing waiters, fried ravioli or spaghetti and meatballs. I would have expected a trained pastry chef to have at least visited Paris! Sophia is such a snob about baking-she turns her nose up at the grocery store bakery yet she happily eats spaghetti and meatballs? That doesn't make sense. She should know good food. Not that I don't enjoy Italian-American dishes but I'm not a chef, just a granddaughter of an Italian baker and cook. One good thing Sophia has going for her is her loyalty. However, she could have been kinder to Cat. I did not suspect Cat at all because I thought Sophia was her friend. Sophia does not act like a good friend to Cat in this novel.
Sophia's mother Bitsy drives me crazy. There's much more to life for women these days besides marriage. Sophia is a happy, confident, successful businesswoman and on one hand Bitsy is proud of Sophia but on the other, Bitsy is hearing wedding bells and a biological clock ticking. Bitsy and Sophia act like sisters sometimes more than mother and daughter. I don't like their relationship. Bitsy also drives me crazy because she doesn't actually DO anything. She belongs to numerous committees and clubs but why is she in the garden club if she refuses to get her hands dirty? I would run away to New York too if Bitsy were my mother.
Poor Cat. She is dedicated to the library. It's her passion, her life, her second home. Her parents understand this and are willing to do what it takes to help achieve her dream to help the community. Her parents sound like amazing people. Cat can be bitter and sarcastic at times but only because she is upset. She was more charming in the first book. Madison is still tough as nails but not as bullying here. I feel sorry for her being accused of murder and losing business because of it. That shouldn't happen and like Sophia, I knew she didn't do it. She specifically said "If I weren't a nice southern girl...". By that definition, Cat didn't do it either, or Charlotte, who is suddenly a fabulous baker in her own right and running the shop for Sophia. I liked their close relationship but Sophia isn't achieving her dream by not baking for the community and not seeing their reactions.
Reba Gunther, secretary at the winery, is on Sophia's list of suspects. I suspected her right away. She seems to be hiding something and knows everything that goes on in the winery office. Reba seems nice so if she did kill Ray, she was driven to it. Perhaps because she'd be out of a job if he sells the winery land and the winery closes? Perhaps there's another reason. The clue is there but I forgot all about it. The Dugan family own the winery. It's new and wine making is new to Kentucky. The winery is successful and everyone loves it but they'll lose their business and their money if the property is sold out from under them. Giles must be very angry at Ray for destroying his business. His daughter Tammy sounds spoiled and whiny even though she comes from nothing. She's gotten used to money. She seems shifty to me, even taking off with the check book before paying Sophia. Hmm... what about her son who was accepted to Harvard and can't go if his mother doesn't have a job? What about her brother Perry, the lawyer for the winery, who certainly must have known what Ray was up to. He seems nice and I always suspect nice businessmen and lawyers. I don't trust them.
A stranger, Lanie Truvinski, breezes into town, demands Sophia bake pastries for her event and breezes out of the shop. She was seen arguing with Ray before his death and witnesses nearly got ran off the road by a silver car. Lanie drives a silver car. I don't like her at all. She's one of those pushy, rude, city businesspeople who think they can do what they want if they toss enough money around. At least she alone pays Sophia in advance.
Other characters include Lizbeth, the newspaper editor. She's very intense. She'll do anything for a story, even lie a bit or print something without a person's knowledge or consent. Lizbeth's ethics are a bit shady. I didn't like how she kept badgering Sophia and putting words in Sophia's mouth. Carter, the sheriff and Sophia's boyfriend, is a sweetheart. He's very kind and caring, but I don't think Sophia should be dating a cop if she's going to continue investigating murders. That's unethical and he won't want her in danger. She needs a man who will support her efforts at sleuthing and help her, or better yet, no man at all. Dixie Ford is the kind lady who owned the Rumford bakery when Sophia was growing up. Dixie is a wizard in the kitchen and a sweet little old lady. I don't know what went wrong with her daughter but some teen girls just rebel and don't ever settle down. I feel sorry for Dixie's granddaughter. How old is she supposed to be? What happened to Mr. Ford because everyone kept saying "The Fords retired" as in both of them are still living. Is he just not home at that moment? Clarice Covington, the bed and breakfast owner, is a private woman. Her passion is her garden and she's willing to participate in a slightly shady scheme. Could she be a murderer? She's not on Sophia's list but she does have a motive.
Not only did I enjoy the novel, but I enjoyed reading some of the recipes. I was hoping for the "Heart of Rumford" cookie because I really wanted to make them for my family for personal reasons.
December 8, 2018
Batter Off Dead by Maymee Bell has us traveling to Rumford, Kentucky. Sophia Cummings has opened For Goodness Sakes, a bakery, in her hometown with the help of her best friend, Charlotte Harrington. It is Sunday and they are busy preparing the treats for The Heart of the Town fundraiser being held that evening at Grape Valley Winery owned by Giles Dugan. The fundraiser is to raise funds for the new library addition. This is Sophia’s first big catering gig for which she has laid out a significant amount of money, so she wants to make sure that everything is perfect. At the fundraiser, Ray Peel is making enemies left and right. He reneges on the donation he promised the library, insults Madison Ridge, and has upset the winery owners. Sophia is on her way to the winery offices to collect her check, when she trips and finds herself face to face with a dead Ray Peel. Sophia quickly calls Sheriff Carter Kincaid who races to the scene to comfort her and then takes charge of the crime scene. The next day, Charlotte requests that Sophia don her sleuthing cap once again. Their friend, Madison finds herself at the top of the suspect list and her realtor clients are dropping her like a hot potato. Sophia has her hands full since Ray had made numerous enemies and her mother is assisting her with what she has termed Operation Merlot. She also must create her baked delights for the bakery and deal with a coupon issue. Someone, though, is not happy with Sophia’s involvement and tries to dissuade her. Grab a glass of wine and settle down to join Sophia on her latest case in Batter Off Dead.
Batter Off Dead is a humorous cozy mystery. There are quirky characters and a charming, small Southern town for which Tonya Kappes is known for creating. Sophia is opening up her bakery, but she has not worked out all the kinks yet. She is unsure whether to ask for deposits from catering clients (the answer is yes) nor does she have them sign a contract (every catering event should have a contract with a deposit). Catering The Heart of the Town will show clients what For Goodness Sakes can provide, but Sophia has outlaid a large amount of money for The Heart of the Town fundraiser. After Sophia makes a big deal about getting paid, the matter then gets dropped and is not resolved. Sophia’s mother, Bitsy is not happy that Sophia has stumbled over another dead body, but it tickled when Sophia asks her to keep her ears open for helpful gossip. Sheriff Carter Kincaid does not want Sophia sticking her nose into his case and repeatedly warns her (he is wasting his breath). I like Maymee Bell’s (aka Tonya Kappes) writing style. It is what I refer to as conversational or friendly which engages the reader. It makes for an easy to read story which is enhanced with the steady pacing and Southern humor. I recommend reading Cake and Punishment before embarking on Batter Off Dead. It sets the stage for the rest of the series. The mystery will have you guessing with multiple suspects who each have a good motive to kill the victim. There are recipes at the end for the yummy baked goods Sophia creates in her bakery. Batter Off Dead contains friendship, family, wine, scrumptious confectionary delights, community, murder, romance and wit.
Batter Off Dead is a humorous cozy mystery. There are quirky characters and a charming, small Southern town for which Tonya Kappes is known for creating. Sophia is opening up her bakery, but she has not worked out all the kinks yet. She is unsure whether to ask for deposits from catering clients (the answer is yes) nor does she have them sign a contract (every catering event should have a contract with a deposit). Catering The Heart of the Town will show clients what For Goodness Sakes can provide, but Sophia has outlaid a large amount of money for The Heart of the Town fundraiser. After Sophia makes a big deal about getting paid, the matter then gets dropped and is not resolved. Sophia’s mother, Bitsy is not happy that Sophia has stumbled over another dead body, but it tickled when Sophia asks her to keep her ears open for helpful gossip. Sheriff Carter Kincaid does not want Sophia sticking her nose into his case and repeatedly warns her (he is wasting his breath). I like Maymee Bell’s (aka Tonya Kappes) writing style. It is what I refer to as conversational or friendly which engages the reader. It makes for an easy to read story which is enhanced with the steady pacing and Southern humor. I recommend reading Cake and Punishment before embarking on Batter Off Dead. It sets the stage for the rest of the series. The mystery will have you guessing with multiple suspects who each have a good motive to kill the victim. There are recipes at the end for the yummy baked goods Sophia creates in her bakery. Batter Off Dead contains friendship, family, wine, scrumptious confectionary delights, community, murder, romance and wit.
December 11, 2018
Sophia Cummings has For Goodness Cakes up and running. She has been asked to make her yummy treats for the Library charity fundraiser at Grape Valley Winery.
When Sophia falls on top of Ray Peel’s body, she starts to get herself mixed into the investigation, especially when her friend is the main suspect.
Welcome to the small southern town of Rumford, Kentucky where secrets are not secret.
Grab a glass of wine a sweet treat and sit back and enjoy this wonderful culinary-cozy. Quirky characters, humor and recipes included.
I received an ARC of this book prior to publication and I decided to voluntarily review it. All opinions are my own.
When Sophia falls on top of Ray Peel’s body, she starts to get herself mixed into the investigation, especially when her friend is the main suspect.
Welcome to the small southern town of Rumford, Kentucky where secrets are not secret.
Grab a glass of wine a sweet treat and sit back and enjoy this wonderful culinary-cozy. Quirky characters, humor and recipes included.
I received an ARC of this book prior to publication and I decided to voluntarily review it. All opinions are my own.
August 1, 2020
I enjoyed book #2 in A Southern Cake Baker Mystery much more than the first one. In this book, we find Sophia in Rumford Kentucky after deciding to stay in the first book. She has opened a baker, “For Goodness Cakes” and is trying to get her new business off the ground. She is preparing for her first big catering job at the Library Fundraiser being held at the local winery. Of course, someone ends up dead at the event, and Sophia is the one that stumbles over the body.
The mystery in this book was well plotted. It had some interesting twists, several suspects and a few red herrings. We get to know some of the characters in Rumford better, and they are more involved in the storyline. Even Bitsy gets involved in the mystery. There were some interesting storylines involving a bit of romance and a story about the previous bakery owners. I liked the southern charm in these stories, the sayings, as well as the debutante/county club themes. This is a fun cozy that was well written with some humor mixed in with the twisty plot. I did not guess the culprit in this one, which I always like, and the reveal was well done and made sense. Not sure if there will be more in this series (this one was written almost 2 years ago) but I would read more if it does.
The mystery in this book was well plotted. It had some interesting twists, several suspects and a few red herrings. We get to know some of the characters in Rumford better, and they are more involved in the storyline. Even Bitsy gets involved in the mystery. There were some interesting storylines involving a bit of romance and a story about the previous bakery owners. I liked the southern charm in these stories, the sayings, as well as the debutante/county club themes. This is a fun cozy that was well written with some humor mixed in with the twisty plot. I did not guess the culprit in this one, which I always like, and the reveal was well done and made sense. Not sure if there will be more in this series (this one was written almost 2 years ago) but I would read more if it does.
June 28, 2021
Not all cozy mysteries are equal- some are over the top silly and some feel dated. This one doesn't suffer from any of those issues.
Sophia was an adorable character without being over-the-top "too good to be true". She was down to earth. I liked her eye rolling at her southern mother and her want to be fair about the recipe book she found.
The mystery didn't take too long to get going and it wasn't a huge shock who went down. I didn't even try to solve the crime, just ran along with the story and enjoyed it. I also really love the cover. This is definitely a series I'd continue and I'll keep an eye out if there end up being more.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
Sophia was an adorable character without being over-the-top "too good to be true". She was down to earth. I liked her eye rolling at her southern mother and her want to be fair about the recipe book she found.
The mystery didn't take too long to get going and it wasn't a huge shock who went down. I didn't even try to solve the crime, just ran along with the story and enjoyed it. I also really love the cover. This is definitely a series I'd continue and I'll keep an eye out if there end up being more.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
November 26, 2018
A fun cozy mystery. I definitely will be reading more books in this series. Mystery fans do not want to miss this book. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my digital arc this is my unbiased review.
November 19, 2018
Batter Off Dead by Maymee Bell is the second book in her Southern Cake Baker series and was another fun read for cozy fans.
Sophia has For Goodness Cakes Bakery up and running now in Rumsford. She has been hired to cater at the Heart of the Town Library charity fundraiser at Grape Valley Winery. Ray Peel, the local bachelor millionaire has made a promise to the town library to pay off the construction loan for the new wing but it all turns south as Ray starts breaking promises not only to locals but to old acquaintances, too. Poor Sophia trips over his dead body while going to the winery to collect payment for the event. Things go from bad to worse has Madison, one of Sophia's closest friends, is the police's number one suspect. That's all Sophia needs to know to begin sleuthing.
Ms. Bell's characters are engaging, likable and down-to-earth in this small Kentucky town. I always feel like I've been welcomed back whenever I read a book in this series. With a swiftly paced plot, twists and turns that kept me guessing, plenty of suspects and a shocking reveal, Ms. Bell has written a mystery that will keep a reader turning the pages.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
Sophia has For Goodness Cakes Bakery up and running now in Rumsford. She has been hired to cater at the Heart of the Town Library charity fundraiser at Grape Valley Winery. Ray Peel, the local bachelor millionaire has made a promise to the town library to pay off the construction loan for the new wing but it all turns south as Ray starts breaking promises not only to locals but to old acquaintances, too. Poor Sophia trips over his dead body while going to the winery to collect payment for the event. Things go from bad to worse has Madison, one of Sophia's closest friends, is the police's number one suspect. That's all Sophia needs to know to begin sleuthing.
Ms. Bell's characters are engaging, likable and down-to-earth in this small Kentucky town. I always feel like I've been welcomed back whenever I read a book in this series. With a swiftly paced plot, twists and turns that kept me guessing, plenty of suspects and a shocking reveal, Ms. Bell has written a mystery that will keep a reader turning the pages.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
December 10, 2018
3.5 stars
BATTER OFF DEAD, the second book in the Southern Cake Baker Mystery Series, by Maymee Bell (aka Tonya Kappes) is sure to delight fans of culinary cozies. Its lovely small town Kentucky setting and cast of warm and quirky characters drew me into the story from the first page. Protagonist and baker Sophia is a strong, albeit stubborn, amateur sleuth. Her sheriff boyfriend Carter is a good man and counterpart for Sophia’s antics. Sophia’s friends and parents add variety and are appealing. The mystery about Ray Peel’s death is strong, even though the investigation is a bit repetitive, and I was surprised by the killer’s identity. The goodies from Sophia’s bakery definitely left me hungry and eager to try the recipes included in the back of the book.
BATTER OFF DEAD is a fun, quickly paced whodunit. Recommended to any cozy mystery fan.
I received an ARC of this title from the author and NetGalley and voluntarily shared my thoughts here.
BATTER OFF DEAD, the second book in the Southern Cake Baker Mystery Series, by Maymee Bell (aka Tonya Kappes) is sure to delight fans of culinary cozies. Its lovely small town Kentucky setting and cast of warm and quirky characters drew me into the story from the first page. Protagonist and baker Sophia is a strong, albeit stubborn, amateur sleuth. Her sheriff boyfriend Carter is a good man and counterpart for Sophia’s antics. Sophia’s friends and parents add variety and are appealing. The mystery about Ray Peel’s death is strong, even though the investigation is a bit repetitive, and I was surprised by the killer’s identity. The goodies from Sophia’s bakery definitely left me hungry and eager to try the recipes included in the back of the book.
BATTER OFF DEAD is a fun, quickly paced whodunit. Recommended to any cozy mystery fan.
I received an ARC of this title from the author and NetGalley and voluntarily shared my thoughts here.
January 21, 2019
Sophia is clearly in her element when she is baking, and her bakery is becoming a popular place. But she also has a knack for tracking down killers, and when one her best friends is accused of murdering one of the town’s richest men, she has to help. She enlists the aid of some of her closest friends as well as her mother, and they get to work, despite being warned off investigating by her boyfriend, the sheriff. Unfortunately, the dead man was disliked by so many people, it’s hard to narrow down the suspect list. Interesting characters in an engaging plot will entertain readers and keep them flipping pages until the very end. Plot twists illustrating that Sophia may be in over her head and side storylines add depth to the tale.
March 22, 2019
This was as delightful as the first book. There are a few mysteries in this story. There is a murder, of course, which is the main plotline. That one involves a winery and a restaurant. The others involve a family recipe and an advertisement in the local newspaper. I liked the minor mysteries more than the main one, but that one was enjoyable, too. The ending of each mystery was surprising, and the end of the book was sweet.
July 6, 2018
This is Book 2 of the Southern Cake Baker Mystery series. Sophia Cummings is a pastry chef, trained in New York City, now owner of For Goodness Cakes in small town Rumford, Kentucky. Sophia has been commissioned to cater the Heart of the Town Library charity fundraiser at Grape Valley Winery where the murder of a person who is (was) supposed to make a large donation causes huge problems for everyone. When a friend of hers becomes the top suspect, Sophia decides she has to help solve the case. This is a seriously fascinating book that kept me up all night reading. I didn’t want it to ever end, but really needed to know who the murderer was. Boy, was I surprised! I highly recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
January 1, 2019
Delectable, just like the cakes that Sophia Cummings bakes at her Kentucky shop. Her latest catering gig at a winery ends in fiasco with a murder and her best friend in the crosshairs as most likely suspect. Luckily, Sophia has good friends, family and her boyfriend, the sheriff, who join together to solve the murder. You'll enjoy your visit to Rumford, Kentucky and hopefully we'll be back there soon in Sophia's next adventure.
January 23, 2019
When you find a book that is so good that you cannot put it down there is a love/hate feeling wrestling inside you. You love that the story is so captivating that you cannot put it down. You are so lost in the story that you become the story..... And then there is that bad feeling when you finish the book so quickly because it's over before you know it. And you hate that you have to close the book, go back to your regular life, and wait for what seem like forever until the next installment of that series....that is providing the book is a part of a series and there will be more......
Well you don't have to worry after you finish reading Batter Off Dead by Maymee Bell. This is the second book in her Southern Cake Baker Mystery series and as with books in a series, they only get better !!! I fell in love with Cake and Punishment, the first book in this series (I even made one of the recipes featured in the story.....) and could not wait for the next one. When I got my hands on Batter Off Dead, you better believe that my life stopped while I read it !!!
There is so much to love with these books..... The main character, Sophia, returns to her very Southern hometown and instantly decides to stay even though she stumbles across dead bodies !! She resumes friendships like there was no gap in time, you will just love her mother, Bitsy, and the way they all talk, and the way that there are committees and groups for everything, and the FOOD !! We cannot forget about the food. In the first book, Cake and Punishment, it was all about the sweets and treats but in Batter Off Dead there is an italian restaurant that gets talked about and there is no lacking in describing the food !!!
And we cannot forget about the murders !!! And of course Sophia's boyfriend, Carter, the town sheriff. Even though he constantly warns Sophia to stay out of the investigation, her momma and her friends cannot help but drag her into it....who can resist when they hand her a glass of wine ?? You have to be southernly after all.....
I love love love this series and even though I read the books quickly, the story stays with me until the next book and I pick it up and get right back into things like I never even left town. You will thorough enjoy these books !!! I will warn you however.....make sure you have a glass of wine, cup of coffee or tea and something to eat and a comfy spot to sit because you will be there for a while......
Well you don't have to worry after you finish reading Batter Off Dead by Maymee Bell. This is the second book in her Southern Cake Baker Mystery series and as with books in a series, they only get better !!! I fell in love with Cake and Punishment, the first book in this series (I even made one of the recipes featured in the story.....) and could not wait for the next one. When I got my hands on Batter Off Dead, you better believe that my life stopped while I read it !!!
There is so much to love with these books..... The main character, Sophia, returns to her very Southern hometown and instantly decides to stay even though she stumbles across dead bodies !! She resumes friendships like there was no gap in time, you will just love her mother, Bitsy, and the way they all talk, and the way that there are committees and groups for everything, and the FOOD !! We cannot forget about the food. In the first book, Cake and Punishment, it was all about the sweets and treats but in Batter Off Dead there is an italian restaurant that gets talked about and there is no lacking in describing the food !!!
And we cannot forget about the murders !!! And of course Sophia's boyfriend, Carter, the town sheriff. Even though he constantly warns Sophia to stay out of the investigation, her momma and her friends cannot help but drag her into it....who can resist when they hand her a glass of wine ?? You have to be southernly after all.....
I love love love this series and even though I read the books quickly, the story stays with me until the next book and I pick it up and get right back into things like I never even left town. You will thorough enjoy these books !!! I will warn you however.....make sure you have a glass of wine, cup of coffee or tea and something to eat and a comfy spot to sit because you will be there for a while......
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December 30, 2018Batter off Dead is the second installment of the A Southern Cake Baker Mystery series set in Rumford, KY and featuring bakery owner, Sophia Cummings. Sophie and best friend, Charlotte Harrington are busy at For Goodness Cakes, baking for the Heart of Rumford fundraiser to benefit the library that is being held at the Grape Valley Winery.
Local resident Ray Peeler seems to be attracting the most attention as he's promised to donate a half a million dollars towards the library expansion. But, as the ceremony approaches, Ray tells head librarian Catherine Fraxman that he's not going to donate money after all. To make matters worse he springs on the Winery owners, the Dugan Family, that he's not going to renew their lease and instead sell the winery land out from under them. Icing on the cake is when he offends Sophie's friend and realtor, Madison Ridge by telling her that she doesn't have enough of a reputation to handle the listing.
Sophie hadn't collected payment in advance for her tasty treats and knowing that she needs the hefty sum in order to keep the bakery going, she sets out to find Ray and ends up tripping over his dead body in one of the grape rows. With all of the enemies the man has made it's really no surprise that someone has finally done him in, and Sophie sets out to track down a killer.
Against the advice of her boyfriend Sheriff Carter Kincaid, Sophie teams up with her mother Bitsy, and friends to form Operation Merlot. A fast paced plot featuring series regulars offers just the right blend of mystery and laughs.
I received an advanced copy of Batter off Dead from NetGalley via Crooked Lane Books. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
Local resident Ray Peeler seems to be attracting the most attention as he's promised to donate a half a million dollars towards the library expansion. But, as the ceremony approaches, Ray tells head librarian Catherine Fraxman that he's not going to donate money after all. To make matters worse he springs on the Winery owners, the Dugan Family, that he's not going to renew their lease and instead sell the winery land out from under them. Icing on the cake is when he offends Sophie's friend and realtor, Madison Ridge by telling her that she doesn't have enough of a reputation to handle the listing.
Sophie hadn't collected payment in advance for her tasty treats and knowing that she needs the hefty sum in order to keep the bakery going, she sets out to find Ray and ends up tripping over his dead body in one of the grape rows. With all of the enemies the man has made it's really no surprise that someone has finally done him in, and Sophie sets out to track down a killer.
Against the advice of her boyfriend Sheriff Carter Kincaid, Sophie teams up with her mother Bitsy, and friends to form Operation Merlot. A fast paced plot featuring series regulars offers just the right blend of mystery and laughs.
I received an advanced copy of Batter off Dead from NetGalley via Crooked Lane Books. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
December 12, 2018
Sophia Cummings is back home in Rumford Kentucky. She just opened her dream bakery here. Now she's working hard to make For Goodness Cakes a success. She's thankful when she gets a high profile catering job. However, a murder changes everything especially when her friend becomes the prime suspect. Sophia isn't going to let the real killer get away with murder. Maymee Bell aka Tonya Kappes writes characters that grab your attention. They are quirky and endearing. I love the sweet and snarky dialogue. The killer better not mess with these ladies. I enjoyed this cozy mystery. It had plenty of suspects and unexpected twists. The ending was a surprise. I didn't see it coming. I like The Southern Cake Baker Mystery. I can't wait to see what happens next in this small town.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
December 31, 2018
Batter Off Dead by Maymee Bell is a really good cozy mystery. It's the second book in the series, but the first one I've read. I didn't feel like I was missing anything by not reading the first book before this one. The author did a really good job writing well-developed characters that readers can enjoy and root for. I was completely surprised at who the killer was. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series to see what happens next to Sophia and everyone else in Rumford.
Note: I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Note: I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
November 27, 2018
Another good mystery in this series. Sophia has opened her bakery and is catering different events. Life is good for her now that she is home and has a new boyfriend. At the event, she stumbles across a dead body and her best friend is accused of the murder. Her boyfriend, the sheriff, wants her to leave it alone and let him find the killer, but she can't let her best friend down and she has to find the real killer. With the help of her friends and her mother, they investigate all the suspects. Someone doesn't want her to get any closer and it puts her life in danger. Will she find the right person before it is too late?
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