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Apple Orchard #5
Granny Smith is Dead
Secret tunnels? Check.
Bitter family grudges? Check.
Vandalism? Affairs? A saucy love triangle?
Check, check, check.
In Book 5 of the Apple Orchard Cozy Mystery Series, you guessed it…
…Granny Smith is dead.
Bitter family grudges? Check.
Vandalism? Affairs? A saucy love triangle?
Check, check, check.
In Book 5 of the Apple Orchard Cozy Mystery Series, you guessed it…
…Granny Smith is dead.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2019
992 people are currently reading
511 people want to read
About the author
Chelsea Thomas
56 books807 followersEveryone loves a secret.
So here's a good one...
...Chelsea Thomas is technically two people, married writing team Chelsea and Matthew Thomas.
Matt and Chelsea write cozy mysteries set on an apple orchard in upstate New York. They also write television and film. As screenwriters, they have worked with several studios, including Nickelodeon, SONY and CBS.
Chelsea and Matt are graduates of Duke University and they are members of the Writers Guild of America. And they are USA Today Bestselling authors.
Chelsea enjoys spending time with animals and practicing yoga. Matt loves playing music. They both enjoy spending time near the water.
Want a free novella PLUS a free cozy mystery cookbook?
Join the Chelsea Thomas Reader Club at www.chelseathomasauthor.com.
So here's a good one...
...Chelsea Thomas is technically two people, married writing team Chelsea and Matthew Thomas.
Matt and Chelsea write cozy mysteries set on an apple orchard in upstate New York. They also write television and film. As screenwriters, they have worked with several studios, including Nickelodeon, SONY and CBS.
Chelsea and Matt are graduates of Duke University and they are members of the Writers Guild of America. And they are USA Today Bestselling authors.
Chelsea enjoys spending time with animals and practicing yoga. Matt loves playing music. They both enjoy spending time near the water.
Want a free novella PLUS a free cozy mystery cookbook?
Join the Chelsea Thomas Reader Club at www.chelseathomasauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
October 11, 2019
Chelsea and Miss May's latest murder victim is Dolores "Granny" Smith, town historian and librarian. Granny Smith was a self-proclaimed treasure but not everyone saw her that way. Granny was cantankerous and rude, gleefully spreading the story that the Brewster family were traitors back during the Revolutionary War. This story caused such a feud that people took sides. Granny's husband AND ex-husband both on #TeamGrannySmith. When Chelsea and Miss May discover Granny's body deep in the underground tunnels underneath a historic house, they are eager to solve the mystery before the incompetent police. Wayne makes Chelsea a bet that if he can solve the mystery she owes him a date. Meanwhile, the farm has too many tart Granny Smith apples and Germany Turtle continues his pursuit of Chelsea.
This story is better than the previous one. It moves along quickly and I never guessed who the killer was. There were too many characters and several red herrings! I stayed up late to finish without even skimming. I hate love triangles and was happy when this one was finally resolved. The characters are quirkier than ever and the plot more zany and silly. Don't take this one seriously. Just go with it and enjoy the fun!
I like Chelsea's character development. She's become much more strong and independent. She still babbles when she's nervous but I don't think she cries in this book. Miss May is as strong and feisty as ever and Chelsea is catching up to her aunt. As always, Miss May bakes the most amazing treats and thanks to the free cookbook, I can too! Teeny finally made me smile a lot. She's moved on from North Point Diaries and has a new story. This one seems to be a crime show and her theories make sense. It's fun to see her flirting with Big Dan, who is an old hippie and has no clue she's flirting. Teeny gets in some amazing baking too which raises her up in my estimation.
As for the men in Chelsea's life, Germany is certainly odd and I don't find him attractive but he's charming and sweet. He's trying too hard but that shows he's sincere. Wayne, on the other hand, is kind of a jerk. He's rude to Germany and he's kind of controlling with Chelsea. He insists she's playing hard to get, yet it sure seems like he's the one doing that by not shutting down Chief Flanagan's interest in him. Ditch them both Chelsea!
Since Granny Smith was such an awful person, murder suspects abound. Most obvious is Beverly Brewster, descendant of possible 18th-century Loyalists. She and Granny had a knock-out, drag-down fight inside the bake shop and if anyone wanted Granny dead it was certainly Rachel. OK, first of all, the Brewsters may have harbored British soldiers because 1)they had to, it was the law 2)they were scared of what would happen if they didn't or 3)they were Loyalists, not traitors. Remember, no one expected America to win the war and there were plenty of Loyalists in New York. Benedict Arnold anyone? I don't know why the town historian and librarian has to be a cranky old lady who distorts history to suit her own personal agenda of revenge! Can't she be a nerdy young woman with a passion for her town's history? Rachel takes offense too easily but there were personal motives for the fight beyond the centuries-old scandal. I don't think Rachel is the most pleasant person in town either.
High up on the list is Granny Smith's ex-husband, Wendell. His is a sad story and I feel very sorry for him. Next on the list is Granny and Wendell's son, Buster. Buster is a teenager in a 40-year-old man's body. Ugh. He's a piece of work always fighting with his father and stepfather because of his inability to grow up. He not a moral man and I would not put it past him to kill his own mother. Granny's new husband, Ricardo, is also a suspect. He's slick and doesn't seem like a nice person but perhaps he and Granny suited each other. He doesn't have a strong motive to kill his own wife.
Other suspects are townspeople we haven't met yet. I won't spoil their names but there's a talented graffiti artist who practices their trade in tunnels and their father who both have good reason to want Buster and his mother dead. Granny Smith ruined people's lives with gleeful malice. One other suspect never crossed our sleuths' radar yet they also had good reason to want Granny Smith dead.
This is such a fun series for a bit of light reading. They're fluffy yet the mysteries are complicated enough not to solve right away.
This story is better than the previous one. It moves along quickly and I never guessed who the killer was. There were too many characters and several red herrings! I stayed up late to finish without even skimming. I hate love triangles and was happy when this one was finally resolved. The characters are quirkier than ever and the plot more zany and silly. Don't take this one seriously. Just go with it and enjoy the fun!
I like Chelsea's character development. She's become much more strong and independent. She still babbles when she's nervous but I don't think she cries in this book. Miss May is as strong and feisty as ever and Chelsea is catching up to her aunt. As always, Miss May bakes the most amazing treats and thanks to the free cookbook, I can too! Teeny finally made me smile a lot. She's moved on from North Point Diaries and has a new story. This one seems to be a crime show and her theories make sense. It's fun to see her flirting with Big Dan, who is an old hippie and has no clue she's flirting. Teeny gets in some amazing baking too which raises her up in my estimation.
As for the men in Chelsea's life, Germany is certainly odd and I don't find him attractive but he's charming and sweet. He's trying too hard but that shows he's sincere. Wayne, on the other hand, is kind of a jerk. He's rude to Germany and he's kind of controlling with Chelsea. He insists she's playing hard to get, yet it sure seems like he's the one doing that by not shutting down Chief Flanagan's interest in him. Ditch them both Chelsea!
Since Granny Smith was such an awful person, murder suspects abound. Most obvious is Beverly Brewster, descendant of possible 18th-century Loyalists. She and Granny had a knock-out, drag-down fight inside the bake shop and if anyone wanted Granny dead it was certainly Rachel. OK, first of all, the Brewsters may have harbored British soldiers because 1)they had to, it was the law 2)they were scared of what would happen if they didn't or 3)they were Loyalists, not traitors. Remember, no one expected America to win the war and there were plenty of Loyalists in New York. Benedict Arnold anyone? I don't know why the town historian and librarian has to be a cranky old lady who distorts history to suit her own personal agenda of revenge! Can't she be a nerdy young woman with a passion for her town's history? Rachel takes offense too easily but there were personal motives for the fight beyond the centuries-old scandal. I don't think Rachel is the most pleasant person in town either.
High up on the list is Granny Smith's ex-husband, Wendell. His is a sad story and I feel very sorry for him. Next on the list is Granny and Wendell's son, Buster. Buster is a teenager in a 40-year-old man's body. Ugh. He's a piece of work always fighting with his father and stepfather because of his inability to grow up. He not a moral man and I would not put it past him to kill his own mother. Granny's new husband, Ricardo, is also a suspect. He's slick and doesn't seem like a nice person but perhaps he and Granny suited each other. He doesn't have a strong motive to kill his own wife.
Other suspects are townspeople we haven't met yet. I won't spoil their names but there's a talented graffiti artist who practices their trade in tunnels and their father who both have good reason to want Buster and his mother dead. Granny Smith ruined people's lives with gleeful malice. One other suspect never crossed our sleuths' radar yet they also had good reason to want Granny Smith dead.
This is such a fun series for a bit of light reading. They're fluffy yet the mysteries are complicated enough not to solve right away.
May 17, 2019
This I should the 5th instalment in the Apple Orchard mystery series, and I continue to enjoy them. I find them to be well written and very entertaining. The plot moves at a steady pace that keeps you engaged. The characters are well-developed, quirky and humorous. Teeny still evokes a giggle or two she is one of my favourite characters.
There are Secret tunnels, Bitter family grudges, Vandalism and Affairs.. the town snitch knows all but who would want Granny Smith dead. Chelsea and Aunt May are on the case when they stumble across another dead body, and detective Wayne challenges Chelsea he can solve the case of who killed this mean old lady first.
I highly recommend this book/series. It can easily stand alone but I recommend you read the series from the beginning.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I have also purchased the book.
There are Secret tunnels, Bitter family grudges, Vandalism and Affairs.. the town snitch knows all but who would want Granny Smith dead. Chelsea and Aunt May are on the case when they stumble across another dead body, and detective Wayne challenges Chelsea he can solve the case of who killed this mean old lady first.
I highly recommend this book/series. It can easily stand alone but I recommend you read the series from the beginning.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I have also purchased the book.
November 26, 2020
Exciting cozy!
Chelsea, Miss May and Teeny are out to solve another murder. Granny Smith is found dead with a knife in her back. There are several suspects, because she was the town snitch. As the trio are working on the case, Granny's son is murdered, complicating the case. Very exciting book with a surprise ending!
Chelsea, Miss May and Teeny are out to solve another murder. Granny Smith is found dead with a knife in her back. There are several suspects, because she was the town snitch. As the trio are working on the case, Granny's son is murdered, complicating the case. Very exciting book with a surprise ending!
December 2, 2020
Eye roll bad.
May 28, 2019
"Granny Smith is Dead" earns 5/5 Secret Tunnels...Engaging and Clever!
Chelsea Thomas (writing team Chelsea and Matthew Thomas) has penned a very entertaining five-book Apple Orchard Cozy Mystery series. Book five, "Granny Smith is Dead," begins with a clever intro "The next murder I'm going to tell you about shocked everyone in Pine Grove....First, I need to introduce you to the victim. Here goes..." From there the authors used a first-person narrative from Chelsea Thomas's perspective (Yes, the author has chosen their name as the main character like a journal or diary) to tell an engaging story of Dolores "Granny" Smith's murder. With a delicious theme, vivid descriptions, endearing family dynamics, quirky characters, and dialogue illustrating personality and tone, readers can't be surprised that an "old bat" like Granny Smith winds up dead. The town historian and librarian advertises her Pine Grove Historic Homes Tour and the secrets she plans to reveal about an important local family. How could it not go wrong! Tunnels. Documents. Traitors. Revolutionary era stories. Chelsea, her Aunt Mat, and BFF Teeny set out to uncover the truth. Well written with a good pace, fun chapter titles, some romantic entanglement, but not a lot of unnecessary falderal...just great entertainment. Oh, and the bonus recipes actually from the series make it a compelling, and delicious, book to have. Enjoy the introduction to each recipe for Apple Oaters, Hashbrown Lasagna, KP's Candy Apples, Chelsea's Cinnamon Buns, and Bodacious Berry Bake. If you sign up for "Thomas Tuesdays," you'll get Teeny's Peanut Butter Caramel Dip along with exclusive giveaways and secret recipes as a thank you. I'm in!
Disclosure: I received an ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Chelsea Thomas (writing team Chelsea and Matthew Thomas) has penned a very entertaining five-book Apple Orchard Cozy Mystery series. Book five, "Granny Smith is Dead," begins with a clever intro "The next murder I'm going to tell you about shocked everyone in Pine Grove....First, I need to introduce you to the victim. Here goes..." From there the authors used a first-person narrative from Chelsea Thomas's perspective (Yes, the author has chosen their name as the main character like a journal or diary) to tell an engaging story of Dolores "Granny" Smith's murder. With a delicious theme, vivid descriptions, endearing family dynamics, quirky characters, and dialogue illustrating personality and tone, readers can't be surprised that an "old bat" like Granny Smith winds up dead. The town historian and librarian advertises her Pine Grove Historic Homes Tour and the secrets she plans to reveal about an important local family. How could it not go wrong! Tunnels. Documents. Traitors. Revolutionary era stories. Chelsea, her Aunt Mat, and BFF Teeny set out to uncover the truth. Well written with a good pace, fun chapter titles, some romantic entanglement, but not a lot of unnecessary falderal...just great entertainment. Oh, and the bonus recipes actually from the series make it a compelling, and delicious, book to have. Enjoy the introduction to each recipe for Apple Oaters, Hashbrown Lasagna, KP's Candy Apples, Chelsea's Cinnamon Buns, and Bodacious Berry Bake. If you sign up for "Thomas Tuesdays," you'll get Teeny's Peanut Butter Caramel Dip along with exclusive giveaways and secret recipes as a thank you. I'm in!
Disclosure: I received an ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
April 5, 2021
Five books in to the 'Apple Orchard' series and I am beginning to suffer from cosy overload. The 'hilarious' antics of Chelsea, Miss May and Teeny are getting on my nerves – and if one more garbled sentence comes out of Germany's mouth there's gonna be a reckoning!
It's a problem I've come across before, read too many books in a series too fast and inevitably they begin to merge together, small annoyances becomes major gripes, and while you may not know the killer(s) instantly, you certainly know how they are going to be identified.
There's a formula to most series and 'Apple Orchard' is more formulaic than most, each book follows the same path before the crime is solved.
That said, and in fairness, “Granny Smith is Dead” is no worse than any of the preceding episodes.
This time round someone has murdered cranky/downright obnoxious town historian Dolores 'Granny' Smith in the maze of Revolutionary tunnels underneath the town (tunnels which no-one seems to have bothered exploring and mapping).
The investigative duo (trio if you include Teeny, personally I don't) patiently track down everyone who could possibly had a motive to kill the old biddy. Her son, husbands, annoyed people she snitched on, etc., etc.
Meanwhile Germany Turtle, who still hasn't learned to speak 20th century English continues to surface with annoying regularity to woo Chelsa. Wayne is still on Chelsea's radar, but only just.
I'm taking a break from the 'Apple Orchard' Series.
It's a problem I've come across before, read too many books in a series too fast and inevitably they begin to merge together, small annoyances becomes major gripes, and while you may not know the killer(s) instantly, you certainly know how they are going to be identified.
There's a formula to most series and 'Apple Orchard' is more formulaic than most, each book follows the same path before the crime is solved.
That said, and in fairness, “Granny Smith is Dead” is no worse than any of the preceding episodes.
This time round someone has murdered cranky/downright obnoxious town historian Dolores 'Granny' Smith in the maze of Revolutionary tunnels underneath the town (tunnels which no-one seems to have bothered exploring and mapping).
The investigative duo (trio if you include Teeny, personally I don't) patiently track down everyone who could possibly had a motive to kill the old biddy. Her son, husbands, annoyed people she snitched on, etc., etc.
Meanwhile Germany Turtle, who still hasn't learned to speak 20th century English continues to surface with annoying regularity to woo Chelsa. Wayne is still on Chelsea's radar, but only just.
I'm taking a break from the 'Apple Orchard' Series.
May 19, 2019
The book starts when Chelsea gets reacquainted in the orchard bakeshop with Granny Smith, the town most annoying curmudgeon. Soon, though, Granny Smith is dead—as the title suggests—and Chelsea and her aunt, Miss May are the ones to discover her! They want to figure out why.
This book has all the elements that I like in a cozy mystery—interesting family relationships, quirky characters in a small town, red herrings, and a murder that is only the tip of the iceberg compared the twists and turns that will happen in the full plot. I really enjoyed the relationship between Chelsea and Miss May. They make a good team. I also appreciated that we see this town and its residents from someone who has returned to it; she can see the town and its people with fresh eyes. The author describes the setting well—I particularly enjoyed the chapters on the discovery of the body—making you feel like you can see what the characters are seeing.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries, this is a solid one with good writing, good characters, and enough intrigue and plot twists to keep you turning the pages.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
This book has all the elements that I like in a cozy mystery—interesting family relationships, quirky characters in a small town, red herrings, and a murder that is only the tip of the iceberg compared the twists and turns that will happen in the full plot. I really enjoyed the relationship between Chelsea and Miss May. They make a good team. I also appreciated that we see this town and its residents from someone who has returned to it; she can see the town and its people with fresh eyes. The author describes the setting well—I particularly enjoyed the chapters on the discovery of the body—making you feel like you can see what the characters are seeing.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries, this is a solid one with good writing, good characters, and enough intrigue and plot twists to keep you turning the pages.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Read my other reviews at https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com.
April 25, 2023
As the characters continue to grow the just-for-fun mysteries are also developing. Miss May and Chelsea arrive for the house tour expecting to be late because the guide Granny Smith is always punctual.
When they arrive a small crowd is standing in the cold waiting for Granny. No one has seen Granny and there is no evidence of her car either. Some of those waiting decide to leave while those who choose to remain discuss how much longer they should wait.
Finally everyone has left except Miss May and Chelsea. Miss May decides before they leave she and Chelsea’s should to do a house tour of their own in case Granny needs help. While they move through the house Miss May is upset by the mess they find throughout the house. Miss May knows about a secret door in the kitchen that leads to the tunnels Granny always talks about and when they descend the stairs it isn’t long before they discover why Granny was late for the tour, she is dead. Stabbed in the back with a revolutionary style knife. Who would do this? Who disliked Granny enough….most all the town people have been angered at me time or another by Granny. Where to begin?
When they arrive a small crowd is standing in the cold waiting for Granny. No one has seen Granny and there is no evidence of her car either. Some of those waiting decide to leave while those who choose to remain discuss how much longer they should wait.
Finally everyone has left except Miss May and Chelsea. Miss May decides before they leave she and Chelsea’s should to do a house tour of their own in case Granny needs help. While they move through the house Miss May is upset by the mess they find throughout the house. Miss May knows about a secret door in the kitchen that leads to the tunnels Granny always talks about and when they descend the stairs it isn’t long before they discover why Granny was late for the tour, she is dead. Stabbed in the back with a revolutionary style knife. Who would do this? Who disliked Granny enough….most all the town people have been angered at me time or another by Granny. Where to begin?
May 16, 2019
This is the latest installment of the apple orchard mysteries! I love this series and this author! Chelsea and her Aunt May run the apple orchard and are the local sleuths along with some help from funny, loveable Teeny who runs grandma’s restaurant! This time around the mean old Granny Smith is found dead. This wasn’t an easy one to solve as everyone in Pine Grove dislike the mean spirited old woman who found a reason to snitch on everyone! I loved that we were introduced to some new interesting characters! It was well written! There was plenty of humor, adventure, drama and mystery! Add in a 3 way romance with Chelsea and a new character who is enamored of her to give our favorite deputy, Wayne some competition, despite Wayne’s confidence! This was a quick read and very enjoyable! I highly recommend this book and this series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 21, 2019
This story is full of family feuds that go back to the revelationary war....or so it would seem. Granny Smith is the town's historian. She and is a mean lady. Her and Beverly get into a fight and is thrown off the apple farm. Later Granny tells everyone that she is going to let the whole town know how Beverly's family were traitors during the war. She has a tour going on Saturday, but she fails to show up. So unlike her! Chelsea and Miss May find her in the 'tunnels' under the house with a knife in her back! When Wayne and the sheriff show up, Wayne and Chelsea make a little wager on who will solve the case first. Then there is a matter of Germany still trying to court Chelsea. Things really get to rockin' and rollin' in this story! Who killed Granny Smith? Who will win the wager and what is it? Will Germany and Chelsea ever get together? You will have to read the book to find out. I voluntarily reviewed a free ARC of this book.
May 21, 2019
Granny Smith is the town’s historian with a bad temperament. While visiting Chelsea and Miss May’s apple farm, she picks a fight with Beverly saying her family was a bunch of traitors and sympathizers during the way. The fight turns hostile and Miss May kicks them both out. When Granny Smith doesn’t show up for tour she is giving on Saturday and Chelsea and Miss May find her body in the tunnels, fingers point to Beverly. But she isn’t the only one that had issues with Granny Smith, so the ladies get sleuthing and Chelsea even has a little wager with Sheriff Wayne to see who will solve the case.
This is the fifth book in the series and it just keeps getting better. It is filled with tons of wit and humor, some romance (and a bit of a love triangle), lots of fabulous characters, along with madcap adventure, suspense, and of course a mystery to solve.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the fifth book in the series and it just keeps getting better. It is filled with tons of wit and humor, some romance (and a bit of a love triangle), lots of fabulous characters, along with madcap adventure, suspense, and of course a mystery to solve.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 27, 2019
They are at it again in the newest book in the Apple Orchard Murder Mystery Series. While looking to apologize to Granny Smith, the find her body instead. It falls to the dynamic zany team of Miss May, her niece Chelsea, and their friend, Teeny to investigate and solve the murder before the police do. Along with eclectic townsfolk to gather their clues.
This is a fun, funny and simply enjoyable cozy mystery. The characters are amazing and each is so unique that I marvel the the imagination it would take to develop them. The storyline weaves the various personalities, twist and turns to culminate in a surprise ending. The description of the setting is wonderfully done and adds a great deal of ambience. It has all the elements of a cozy mystery, great characters, humour, romance and of course a mystery to solve. If you like cosy mysteries you will enjoy this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a fun, funny and simply enjoyable cozy mystery. The characters are amazing and each is so unique that I marvel the the imagination it would take to develop them. The storyline weaves the various personalities, twist and turns to culminate in a surprise ending. The description of the setting is wonderfully done and adds a great deal of ambience. It has all the elements of a cozy mystery, great characters, humour, romance and of course a mystery to solve. If you like cosy mysteries you will enjoy this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 5, 2020
Granny Smith is Dead: Book 5
The characters in this book, and series, and so much fun. Most of the characters are a little over the top, but that makes the story so much more entertaining. The fact is this is just a case of good old fiction. An escape from the seriousness of reality. There are a couple of mysteries, a triangle of romance, a few red herrings, and a lot of drama in this well-written, fun, and easy read.
The Chelsea Thomas writing duo are very imaginative storytellers. I think using their pen name for the main character is cute. Naming the victim (who happened to be of a somewhat sour disposition and murdered at an apple orchard) “Granny Smith” is hilarious. In case you have never had the pleasure of eating a Granny Smith apple; it is very tart, to the point of being sour.
This book is perfect for those who enjoy an entertaining means of escape into the world of fiction.
The characters in this book, and series, and so much fun. Most of the characters are a little over the top, but that makes the story so much more entertaining. The fact is this is just a case of good old fiction. An escape from the seriousness of reality. There are a couple of mysteries, a triangle of romance, a few red herrings, and a lot of drama in this well-written, fun, and easy read.
The Chelsea Thomas writing duo are very imaginative storytellers. I think using their pen name for the main character is cute. Naming the victim (who happened to be of a somewhat sour disposition and murdered at an apple orchard) “Granny Smith” is hilarious. In case you have never had the pleasure of eating a Granny Smith apple; it is very tart, to the point of being sour.
This book is perfect for those who enjoy an entertaining means of escape into the world of fiction.
May 18, 2019
Granny Smith apparently also held the nickname Grumpy Smith, and for good reason. The history loving granny liked thins how she liked them, and loved finding a hot bit of local historical dirt on her frenemies and neighbors. Not the most popular person, so really too many candidates for her murder.
Chelsea finds more to like about Germany Turtle, but is still drawn to hottie cop Wayne. In my book, a loyal pet friendly firefighter rates way over a cop who cannot be bothered to return a call for six months. Sweet and awkward rates higher than hot and rude in my book.
A dizzying only in a small town KU story -loved it!
I received an advance copy of this book from Booksprout. I read it on Kindle Unlimited.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Chelsea finds more to like about Germany Turtle, but is still drawn to hottie cop Wayne. In my book, a loyal pet friendly firefighter rates way over a cop who cannot be bothered to return a call for six months. Sweet and awkward rates higher than hot and rude in my book.
A dizzying only in a small town KU story -loved it!
I received an advance copy of this book from Booksprout. I read it on Kindle Unlimited.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 19, 2019
The super sleuths are at it again in this installment of Apple Orchard Cozy Mystery (Book 5). This is a great little cozy mystery series that is super funny and pretty darn cute. This series can be read as a stand alone, but it works even better being read in order. The story line is progressive. I'm glad I started at the beginning. The series as a whole is great and well worth the time to sit down and read.
This book has great characters, funny story line, bits of mystery and good descriptions to detail. It has a hint of a possible romance in the making, but it for sure is not the main premise of the story. Looking forward to more stories to come!
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Sassy Beta Reading and Review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book has great characters, funny story line, bits of mystery and good descriptions to detail. It has a hint of a possible romance in the making, but it for sure is not the main premise of the story. Looking forward to more stories to come!
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Sassy Beta Reading and Review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2019
I just love all the characters in this series, Chelsea is growing as a person and working out who she wants to be while still working out who she wants to be with, Miss May is enjoying her company and feeling adventurous with every murder they come across while Teeny may have her eye on more than donuts. The murder of Granny Smith the local historian is I think the most complex to date for the girls and it shows as both they and I were at times lost as to who we think the murder was and just when you think you have it BOOM another twist which leaves you scratching your head. You will be left wanting to read the next book asap due to the way it finishes as well as having a craving for breakfast for dinner!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 28, 2021
Granny Smith aka Dolores, was the meanest old lady in town; she snitched on everyone, but this time, one snitch too many. So is it any wonder, someone finally chose to shut her complaining mouth for good? Of course, Chelsea ant Aunt May find the body, and who shows up immediately; hunky detective Wayne, and the Chief of Police.
Then there's Germany Turtle, who is so smitten with Chelsea, he could be a puppy that continually gets kicked, and still whines for more. In this novel, I am kind of angry at Chelsea, for she finally agrees to a date with him, and then forgets about it the very next day! Come on Chelsea, considering your past, you shouldn't be such a choosy beggar.
Anyway, Chelsea, Aunt May and Teeny are on the hunt, for a murderer again; while trying to figure out, at the same time, what to do with a surplus of Granny Smith apples; sourly tart, just like the murder victim.
Then there's Germany Turtle, who is so smitten with Chelsea, he could be a puppy that continually gets kicked, and still whines for more. In this novel, I am kind of angry at Chelsea, for she finally agrees to a date with him, and then forgets about it the very next day! Come on Chelsea, considering your past, you shouldn't be such a choosy beggar.
Anyway, Chelsea, Aunt May and Teeny are on the hunt, for a murderer again; while trying to figure out, at the same time, what to do with a surplus of Granny Smith apples; sourly tart, just like the murder victim.
May 16, 2019
This series is definitely one of my favourite cozy mysteries.
I really like the way this book started, like it was being narrated by one of the characters.
Obviously with all cozy mysteries there is a murder, or two to be solved, and this story is no different. I love our three sleuths and how they go about solving the mystery in front of them, especially Teeny 😂😂 she's hilarious.
I also love the side story, love triangle that is Chelsea, Wayne and Germany 💗 which is covered and hopefully by the end she has finally picked one of them 🙆♀️
I absolutely adore this book and definitely want more, although they make me hungry for junk food 🍕🍩🥧😂
The author has a great way of writing, that is easy to read and totally engrossing 💖💖
I really like the way this book started, like it was being narrated by one of the characters.
Obviously with all cozy mysteries there is a murder, or two to be solved, and this story is no different. I love our three sleuths and how they go about solving the mystery in front of them, especially Teeny 😂😂 she's hilarious.
I also love the side story, love triangle that is Chelsea, Wayne and Germany 💗 which is covered and hopefully by the end she has finally picked one of them 🙆♀️
I absolutely adore this book and definitely want more, although they make me hungry for junk food 🍕🍩🥧😂
The author has a great way of writing, that is easy to read and totally engrossing 💖💖
May 20, 2019
Chelsea and her aunt, Miss May are entering apple season and there is a lot of work to be done. It isn’t long before conflict erupts in the orchard store and the duo, plus their friend Teeny, are involved in another sleuthing mission.
This is the 4th installment of the Apple Orchard Cozy series. While we have several of the regular characters, we also meet several new citizens of Pine Grove. The action moves at a steady pace and you won’t want to put the book down. I enjoy this series and recommend it. While there is a good amount of tension as the women investigate, there is also humor throughout.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the 4th installment of the Apple Orchard Cozy series. While we have several of the regular characters, we also meet several new citizens of Pine Grove. The action moves at a steady pace and you won’t want to put the book down. I enjoy this series and recommend it. While there is a good amount of tension as the women investigate, there is also humor throughout.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 28, 2019
Chelsea and Aunt Mae stumble across another murder, this time it is Granny Smith. There are many people who disliked Granny so there are lots of people to investigate to determine who the murderer is. Just when they think they are narrowing the search to the killer Granny Smiths’ son is also murdered so now they have another murder to solve. Chelsea has been in a love triangle with Wayne, the hot copy, and Germany, the kooky, socially awkward, pet friendly firefighter. Chelsea is sampling food the whole way through the investigation and there are recipes included at the end of the book. There is food, humor, intrigue, adventure, drama, mystery and a touch of romance! I received an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 15, 2020
Tunnels, revolutionary knives and graffiti!
Another fun Chelsea Thomas Murder mystery. I enjoy all of theses fun and slightly zany cozies! Delores “Granny Smith” is hosting her annual historic house tour, but when Aunt May and Chelsea show up for the tour, Granny Smith is not there. Of course, if you know these ladies you have already figured out that they discover Granny dead, with a knife in her back, no less! Follow your favorite sleuths as they investigate old tunnels, Revolutionary history, and some shady locals who are acting strange. Sure, Granny was a cranky old lady, but who would want to murder her? And who is decorating the hidden, historic tunnels with some juvenile and some pretty amazing graffiti?
Another fun Chelsea Thomas Murder mystery. I enjoy all of theses fun and slightly zany cozies! Delores “Granny Smith” is hosting her annual historic house tour, but when Aunt May and Chelsea show up for the tour, Granny Smith is not there. Of course, if you know these ladies you have already figured out that they discover Granny dead, with a knife in her back, no less! Follow your favorite sleuths as they investigate old tunnels, Revolutionary history, and some shady locals who are acting strange. Sure, Granny was a cranky old lady, but who would want to murder her? And who is decorating the hidden, historic tunnels with some juvenile and some pretty amazing graffiti?
August 18, 2020
It was fun catching up with Chelsea, May and Teeny in another sleuthing adventure. Teeny definitely provides plenty of comic entertainment! She had a sweetie in this book that she was flirting with, and he did get to help with the sleuthing a little. This really had me guessing until the end about something/someone else. I guessed one thing, but not the second. There were lots of red herrings, and I'm being vague on purpose so I don't spoil anything.
You could probably enjoy each book by itself, but it would be so much more fun for new readers to start at the beginning and get to know this town and all the quirky residents. Some of the people and places would make more sense if a person started at the beginning though. That way, you get ALL the Teeny goodness and craziness!
You could probably enjoy each book by itself, but it would be so much more fun for new readers to start at the beginning and get to know this town and all the quirky residents. Some of the people and places would make more sense if a person started at the beginning though. That way, you get ALL the Teeny goodness and craziness!
May 10, 2021
The book started good until they killed off 1 of the 2 most interesting characters , Granny Smith . The other Beverley you don't see nearly enough of . The 3 bumbling lady detectives spend time running around to different restaurants stuffing their faces under the guise of questioning suspects . The whole thing with the TV journalist chasing the " story " of the pub customers using the next door business parking spots is idiotic . They act like oh it's just a sin and a shame , why it's a big conspiracy , etc . And they were so stupid they couldn't figure out to press the panic button on the cars keychain to help find the car . Seriously ?!!!? I was glad when this idiotic and poorly written book was done .
August 7, 2022
The title of the Apple Orchard mystery book 5 indicates who will be murdered next in Pine Grove. Dolores "Granny" Smith is the town historian and town librarian. She is getting ready to host the 30th annual tour of Pine Grove's historic homes. But as the tour is set to begin and Granny Smith is nowhere to be found, Miss May and Chelsea go look for her. What they find is a dead Granny Smith with a knife in her back in a secret tunnel under a house. This murder has quite a few serious suspects. Who will solve it first--Detective Wayne or Miss May and Chelsea? And what will happen in the love triangle of Wayne, Chelsea, and Germany? This story has a lot going on and it has a nice flow to it. The three main characters prove once again that they are super sleuths!
May 27, 2019
This book is a great read, holds your attention from the first sentence. I wish I had read the first 4 books in the series but it didn't affect the story line too much. Granny Smith is what some people call the "meanest old lady in town". She's the town historian, the town librarian, the town treasurer and she is ready to share some family secrets of the Brewster family. So she has definitely made some people in town upset, finding who killed her may not be easy but with Chelsea and her aunt Miss May on the case to get the answer. A nice cozy mystery with a good story line.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 26, 2019
Again, another great book in a great series.One of the best! This is a series just made for binge reading.
Another murder, probably well deserved, this time of the town librarian. Food, the Revolutionary war, food, and Chelsea's love life are all featured in this humorous Apple Orchard Cozy Mystery Book 5.
Buy books 1 - 4 and have a great time reading your way through! Goes well with Apple cider or hot chocolate and cookies!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Another murder, probably well deserved, this time of the town librarian. Food, the Revolutionary war, food, and Chelsea's love life are all featured in this humorous Apple Orchard Cozy Mystery Book 5.
Buy books 1 - 4 and have a great time reading your way through! Goes well with Apple cider or hot chocolate and cookies!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 25, 2019
Another fabulous read with Chelsea, Miss May and Teeny in competition with the Sheriff's department in solving the death of Granny Smith. Could the culprit be Beverly Brewster who Granny is talking about for being a traitor or maybe the jealous ex-husband? There is another competition going on between Jeremy Turtle and Deputy Wayne! The sleuthing trio again keep the reader in humorous suspense as they fumble through their eating and investigating.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2019
This is another good read. I love the cute and quirky qualities of the characters. However, the whole Wayne, Chelsea and Germany triangle was becoming a bit much. I’m not sure why, but Wayne was not as likable as he was in the previous books. He just didn’t seem like a good fit for Chelsea. Germany has alway been one of my favorite characters. I feel like his qualities are endearing and Chelsea picked the right guy. I hope she doesn’t mess things up.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 19, 2020
This is a nice little book. Chelsea and her aunt and friend get involved with solving another murder. When the local historian is found dead in one of the tunnels going under a mansion, they start to try and find out who the killer is. The Police Chief doesn't like them, and thinks they just get in the way. Her detective, kind of likes Chelsea, so this puts a twist in the story. When the lady's son is found murdered in the tunnels, the case gets going. This is the first book I have read in this series. I may go back and read the first one Good Book
September 11, 2020
This was a very cute Autumn inspired cozy mystery. Although this was the only book in the series I have read, I don’t think you need to read the first few in order to enjoy this story.
This was extremely light hearted and although not the most intricate story line, what I enjoyed the most was the setting of the apple orchard and all of the yummy sounding fall baked goods.
My only big disappointment was there were no recipes included at the end of the book! This book will definitely get you into a September mood!
This was extremely light hearted and although not the most intricate story line, what I enjoyed the most was the setting of the apple orchard and all of the yummy sounding fall baked goods.
My only big disappointment was there were no recipes included at the end of the book! This book will definitely get you into a September mood!
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