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Pie Town Mystery #4
Pies Before Guys
Val’s crime-solving club digs into a piping hot new case!
A poetry slam at a bakery? Why not! Even though Pie Town proprietor Val Harris would rather be spending time with her newfound half-brother, she knows her employee, Abril, is beyond excited to be hosting the event. Especially since it stars the apple pie of Abril’s eye, poet and professor Michael Starke. But the evening ends on a sour note when Professor Starke is found murdered mere moments after being accused of plagiarism.
Just like that, Pie Town is at the center of another criminal inquiry. At Abril’s request—and much to Detective Carmichael’s consternation—Val and Charlene decide to investigate Starke’s death. But the case is as tough as an overworked crust and the Baker Street Bakers are only coming up with scraps. If they don’t pinch the cultured killer soon, Pie Town’s reputation could crumble.
A poetry slam at a bakery? Why not! Even though Pie Town proprietor Val Harris would rather be spending time with her newfound half-brother, she knows her employee, Abril, is beyond excited to be hosting the event. Especially since it stars the apple pie of Abril’s eye, poet and professor Michael Starke. But the evening ends on a sour note when Professor Starke is found murdered mere moments after being accused of plagiarism.
Just like that, Pie Town is at the center of another criminal inquiry. At Abril’s request—and much to Detective Carmichael’s consternation—Val and Charlene decide to investigate Starke’s death. But the case is as tough as an overworked crust and the Baker Street Bakers are only coming up with scraps. If they don’t pinch the cultured killer soon, Pie Town’s reputation could crumble.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 25, 2020
129 people are currently reading
479 people want to read
About the author
Kirsten Weiss
110 books1,302 followersKirsten Weiss writes laugh-out-loud, page-turning mysteries. Her heroines aren’t perfect, but they’re smart, they struggle, and they succeed. Kirsten writes in a house high on a hill in the Colorado woods and occasionally ventures out for wine and chocolate. Or for a visit to the local pie shop.
She is best known for her cozy and witch mystery novels. So if you like funny, action-packed mysteries with complicated heroines, just turn the page…
Kirsten sends out original short stories of mystery and magic to her mailing list. If you’d like to get them delivered straight to your inbox, make sure to sign up for her newsletter at kirstenweiss.com
Feel free to follow her on Twitter @KirstenWeiss or Bookbub, get in touch on Facebook, post a picture of this book to Instagram and tag her @kirstenweissauthor, or send her an email. She’ll answer you personally…which may be a good or a bad thing, depending on your perspective.
She is best known for her cozy and witch mystery novels. So if you like funny, action-packed mysteries with complicated heroines, just turn the page…
Kirsten sends out original short stories of mystery and magic to her mailing list. If you’d like to get them delivered straight to your inbox, make sure to sign up for her newsletter at kirstenweiss.com
Feel free to follow her on Twitter @KirstenWeiss or Bookbub, get in touch on Facebook, post a picture of this book to Instagram and tag her @kirstenweissauthor, or send her an email. She’ll answer you personally…which may be a good or a bad thing, depending on your perspective.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
February 19, 2020
Val Harris is reluctantly hosting a poetry slam for the local community college at her bakery, Pie Town. But the evening turns into a nightmare when a professor is found murdered after being accused of plagiarism by another professor. Val and her pie crust maker/sidekick, Charlene, work together to catch the killer.
Pies before Guys by Kristen Weiss has everything I love in a cozy mystery- quirky characters, the small tight-knit community feeling, and a mystery with plenty of suspects and red herrings. Val's character was well-developed and I found it very easy to like her. But she came across as a bit of a pushover and I was happy to see her stand up for herself in the end. Charlene's over the top behavior annoyed me at times, but she grew on me as the story progressed and I really enjoyed the subplot with her pie tin UFOs. This was an enjoyable and entertaining cozy mystery and I definitely recommend it. It is the fourth book in the A Pie Town Mystery series, and can easily be read as a stand-alone.
I received an ARC from Kensington Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Pies before Guys by Kristen Weiss has everything I love in a cozy mystery- quirky characters, the small tight-knit community feeling, and a mystery with plenty of suspects and red herrings. Val's character was well-developed and I found it very easy to like her. But she came across as a bit of a pushover and I was happy to see her stand up for herself in the end. Charlene's over the top behavior annoyed me at times, but she grew on me as the story progressed and I really enjoyed the subplot with her pie tin UFOs. This was an enjoyable and entertaining cozy mystery and I definitely recommend it. It is the fourth book in the A Pie Town Mystery series, and can easily be read as a stand-alone.
I received an ARC from Kensington Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 9, 2020
Pies Before Guys by Kirsten Weiss is the fourth book of the cozy Pie Town Mystery series. Each book of the series contains it’s own mystery that is fully solved so they all could be read as a standalone or in any order if choosing to do so. However, those that follow from the beginning do have character development that carries over book to book.
In the first book of the Pie Town Mystery series readers were introduced to Valentine “Val” Harris who had moved to San Nicholas along the coast in California thinking she was going to be starting a whole new life by opening up her own business and marrying her fiance. Six months later all Val had left was her business when her fiance had called off their wedding and after putting all her money into her dream, Pie Town, she knew she had to do whatever it took to make the business a success.
However, Val and her pie crust maker, Charlene, seem to have the worst luck when it comes to finding dead bodies but the duo are becoming better and better at finding the murderers. This time Val agrees to host a poetry slam at a bakery at the request of one of her employees, Abril. Unfortunately at the end of the night Abril’s favorite poet and professor, Michael Starke, is found murdered leaving Abril to beg for Val’s help finding the killer.
The Pie Town Mystery series has quickly become one of my favorite cozy series to read. There is that quirkiness I enjoy with a small town vibe and all of the characters are likable. However, going way above likable Charlene is one of my favorite characters being a complete riot every time she’s involved. I will definitely keep looking forward to any more books the author adds to this series always looking forward to more laughs and a fun mystery to solve.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
In the first book of the Pie Town Mystery series readers were introduced to Valentine “Val” Harris who had moved to San Nicholas along the coast in California thinking she was going to be starting a whole new life by opening up her own business and marrying her fiance. Six months later all Val had left was her business when her fiance had called off their wedding and after putting all her money into her dream, Pie Town, she knew she had to do whatever it took to make the business a success.
However, Val and her pie crust maker, Charlene, seem to have the worst luck when it comes to finding dead bodies but the duo are becoming better and better at finding the murderers. This time Val agrees to host a poetry slam at a bakery at the request of one of her employees, Abril. Unfortunately at the end of the night Abril’s favorite poet and professor, Michael Starke, is found murdered leaving Abril to beg for Val’s help finding the killer.
The Pie Town Mystery series has quickly become one of my favorite cozy series to read. There is that quirkiness I enjoy with a small town vibe and all of the characters are likable. However, going way above likable Charlene is one of my favorite characters being a complete riot every time she’s involved. I will definitely keep looking forward to any more books the author adds to this series always looking forward to more laughs and a fun mystery to solve.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
April 11, 2020
When a brutal murder takes place close to family restaurant Pie Town, restaurant owner Val Harris sets out to solve the case in her amateur-sleuthing way, which gets her in serious danger.
Pies before Guys is installment #4 by Kristen Weiss. The story is about English professor Michael Stark who is invited to Pie Town for a poetry reading event. He chooses to read a rather strange poem, which gets him into a heated argument with another member of the local college English department. He is accused of plagiarism. Soon after he is found dead, stabbed with a saber.
Worried about the reputation of the restaurant, Val finds it crucial to solve the case. Her boyfriend, Detective Gordon Carmichael, risks being kicked off the murder investigation for the third time because of Val’s interfering. He makes her promise to keep all talk about the case to Pie Town. Charlene and Val invent new and creative ways around that promise. She tries to make sure her business isn’t in jeopardy being connected to a murder case again.
I like Val Harris. She seems a sweet, sensible girl who is building a successful pie business. She may come across as somewhat of a pushover at times, but for the most part she seems to find it important to keep her promises and be reliable. But being close friends with Charlene, she is sometimes “forced” to color outside the lines a bit, which gets her into trouble with her local police detective boyfriend.
Charlene McCree is the second main character who adds a funny and interesting spin to the story. She is a creative and industrious busy-body with a vivid imagination that enjoy coming up with antics supposed to have favorable outcomes. She stops at nothing to make her ideas happen, but has a good heart. She is a firm believer in UFOs and the use of social media, which creates vital and enjoyable additions to the plot.
Charlene’s social media activity plays a crucial role in the development of the plot as she tries to draw crowds to Pie Town. While I found it entertaining and interesting, I felt it took up a lot of space in the plot and might have been shortened a bit.
I really enjoyed the vibe of small-town living where everybody knows everybody else.
In spite of all the craziness, the plot seems to progress steadily, which I am pleased to see. There seem to emerge useful clues for the investigation, which became interesting elements to the story.
Pies Before Guys is recommended for fans of Kirsten Weiss and for readers of cozy mystery. Thank you to Kensington Books via Netgalley for this eARC in return for my honest review.
All opinions are completely my own.
My rating:
4 stars / 5
Pies before Guys is installment #4 by Kristen Weiss. The story is about English professor Michael Stark who is invited to Pie Town for a poetry reading event. He chooses to read a rather strange poem, which gets him into a heated argument with another member of the local college English department. He is accused of plagiarism. Soon after he is found dead, stabbed with a saber.
Worried about the reputation of the restaurant, Val finds it crucial to solve the case. Her boyfriend, Detective Gordon Carmichael, risks being kicked off the murder investigation for the third time because of Val’s interfering. He makes her promise to keep all talk about the case to Pie Town. Charlene and Val invent new and creative ways around that promise. She tries to make sure her business isn’t in jeopardy being connected to a murder case again.
I like Val Harris. She seems a sweet, sensible girl who is building a successful pie business. She may come across as somewhat of a pushover at times, but for the most part she seems to find it important to keep her promises and be reliable. But being close friends with Charlene, she is sometimes “forced” to color outside the lines a bit, which gets her into trouble with her local police detective boyfriend.
Charlene McCree is the second main character who adds a funny and interesting spin to the story. She is a creative and industrious busy-body with a vivid imagination that enjoy coming up with antics supposed to have favorable outcomes. She stops at nothing to make her ideas happen, but has a good heart. She is a firm believer in UFOs and the use of social media, which creates vital and enjoyable additions to the plot.
Charlene’s social media activity plays a crucial role in the development of the plot as she tries to draw crowds to Pie Town. While I found it entertaining and interesting, I felt it took up a lot of space in the plot and might have been shortened a bit.
I really enjoyed the vibe of small-town living where everybody knows everybody else.
In spite of all the craziness, the plot seems to progress steadily, which I am pleased to see. There seem to emerge useful clues for the investigation, which became interesting elements to the story.
Pies Before Guys is recommended for fans of Kirsten Weiss and for readers of cozy mystery. Thank you to Kensington Books via Netgalley for this eARC in return for my honest review.
All opinions are completely my own.
My rating:
4 stars / 5
March 25, 2020
I never had the opportunity to visit pie town or meet Val and her gang before. I was really excited to hear I was going to be traveling to Cali...and a pie shop….well let’s just say it didn’t take much persuasion.
I arrived right when pie town was hosting a poetry reading. Several of the readers were from the English department at the local community college. Pretty tame right….WRONG! When the reading ends two of the professors were having a screaming match about plagiarism, and within a couple hours one of them is dead….killed with a saber...YES I said saber lol. Well Val and the Baker street bakers (Charlene made me an honorary member) had to investigate...I mean another murder with affiliation to pie town...we needed to figure this out. Man it was a wild ride...trying to keep Charlene in line sometimes is a full time job...and with Val trying to get acquainted with her newly discovered half brother...and keeping pie town from crumbling...get it because it’s pie...lol. Well let’s just say I needed lots of R and R when I got back home!
My thoughts:
I want to start by saying this is the first book I have read in the series, and I will be going back and reading the first before I decide whether its right for me. I really wanted to love it! I mean the cover is great, and the title is amusing. The premise is right up my alley...I love bakery themed cozies. I just didn’t (love it)…. I found myself not connected with Val at all. She wasn’t very interesting, and made some very dumb decisions. It was super frustrating! I also thought there needed to be more setting development. It never gave me the cozy feeling..that would keep me anticipating the next installment.
I thought the author did a really good job with the mystery. I was guessing until the reveal. It includes recipes that sound mouthwatering delicious! I also really enjoyed Charlene. I always love the older eccentric side kick...and she did not disappoint...she was quite entertaining! For these reasons and as mentioned above I came in to the middle of the series I will be giving it a fair shot by reading book 1.
For lovers of food cozies get yourself a slice of pie or one of Val’s great quiches and enjoy!
http://beachbumbookworm.com/
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank Netgalley, the author Kirsten Weiss, and the publisher for this opportunity.
I arrived right when pie town was hosting a poetry reading. Several of the readers were from the English department at the local community college. Pretty tame right….WRONG! When the reading ends two of the professors were having a screaming match about plagiarism, and within a couple hours one of them is dead….killed with a saber...YES I said saber lol. Well Val and the Baker street bakers (Charlene made me an honorary member) had to investigate...I mean another murder with affiliation to pie town...we needed to figure this out. Man it was a wild ride...trying to keep Charlene in line sometimes is a full time job...and with Val trying to get acquainted with her newly discovered half brother...and keeping pie town from crumbling...get it because it’s pie...lol. Well let’s just say I needed lots of R and R when I got back home!
My thoughts:
I want to start by saying this is the first book I have read in the series, and I will be going back and reading the first before I decide whether its right for me. I really wanted to love it! I mean the cover is great, and the title is amusing. The premise is right up my alley...I love bakery themed cozies. I just didn’t (love it)…. I found myself not connected with Val at all. She wasn’t very interesting, and made some very dumb decisions. It was super frustrating! I also thought there needed to be more setting development. It never gave me the cozy feeling..that would keep me anticipating the next installment.
I thought the author did a really good job with the mystery. I was guessing until the reveal. It includes recipes that sound mouthwatering delicious! I also really enjoyed Charlene. I always love the older eccentric side kick...and she did not disappoint...she was quite entertaining! For these reasons and as mentioned above I came in to the middle of the series I will be giving it a fair shot by reading book 1.
For lovers of food cozies get yourself a slice of pie or one of Val’s great quiches and enjoy!
http://beachbumbookworm.com/
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank Netgalley, the author Kirsten Weiss, and the publisher for this opportunity.
December 29, 2019
I thought the book and the plot was fabulous !!! I loved all the people , I adored the different generations !! Charlene was fantastic with the cat & of course i am a cat girl !!! I cannot wait for more in this series .... I was sad when it ended and to me that is the best thing I can say about a book😻
P.s.The reference to the movie” the big Lebowski “ was not missed by me as it’s my favorite movie ever 💖
P.s.The reference to the movie” the big Lebowski “ was not missed by me as it’s my favorite movie ever 💖
January 26, 2020
This has been a very enjoyable series for me. I love the small-town setting and the great cast of eclectic characters that surround Val and Pie-Town. This installment was a bit of a miss for me. As I read my way through the story, I thought it had a good plot, solid mystery and the usual cast of characters make a return appearance to round out everything. Usually, I don't seem to mind Charlene's quirky personality and her hair-brained antic. This time around, however, I thought that they went beyond that to actually put Val in danger without any second thought about the repercussions. In that respect, I thought Val came across as a little weak. I know the author has written this relationship where Charlene serves as a surrogate mother for Val but I thought Val should have stood up for herself a little sooner and not let herself be put in those dangerous situations without calling them out to Charlene.
I thought the mystery was well done and it kept me guessing as to the motive and identity of the killer. I also like the way the relationship continues to progress between Val and Gorden as well as her relationship with Doran, her half brother.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher, Kensington Books, through Netgalley.
I thought the mystery was well done and it kept me guessing as to the motive and identity of the killer. I also like the way the relationship continues to progress between Val and Gorden as well as her relationship with Doran, her half brother.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher, Kensington Books, through Netgalley.
February 27, 2020
Welcome back to Pie Town! This time in PIES BEFORE GUYS, a professor by the name of Michael Starke is found murdered right after he is accused of plagiarism. With his ties to Val’s employee, Abril, she and Charlene go out to solve what really happened. However, Val’s detective Carmichael doesn’t like it.
I like this series because it’s one of the few Cozy Mysteries out there that takes a more direct approach with its sleuthing. Once the murder occurs, Weiss sets the pace and Val and Charlene are out there. I really like that because it always pushes the book forward. I also noticed that Weiss doesn’t shy away from using certain terms in her books that are more professional. It makes it feel a bit more like a police procedural than a lighter Cozy Mystery, which is nice. So I definitely enjoyed the book because of that.
If you haven’t tried this series and are a fan of Thrillers, then maybe this one would be a good fit for you. It’s fast-paced and engaging, but still has the Cozy element that makes the genre so special.
January 19, 2020
This is a fun addition to this cozy mystery series.
When a poetry reading goes horribly wrong, Val and Charlene are back to investigating while creating mouthwatering pies.
Charlene also has her hands full trying to avoid Marla as well as creating interesting UFO pics.
Be sure to mark your calendar for the release date.
When a poetry reading goes horribly wrong, Val and Charlene are back to investigating while creating mouthwatering pies.
Charlene also has her hands full trying to avoid Marla as well as creating interesting UFO pics.
Be sure to mark your calendar for the release date.
March 8, 2020
Things at Pie Town are typically hectic, bordering on frenetic. Val Harris agreed to host a poetry slam (huh?) to make one of her employees happy as her professor is one of the featured poets. Of course, things get out of control (what a shocker) with an argument and charges of plagiarism that end up with a dead professor. The characters are interesting and engaging, especially, Charlene the eccentric piecrust maker. While the wackiness threatens to get out of control around the midpoint, it gets reined back in. The mystery is solid and the book (actually the whole series) is just a lot of fun. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 30, 2020
Super hilarious, once again. I love the ever-expanding cast of characters and the overall vibes of Pie Town. I will say, there are some unnecessary comments about some of the fat characters in the book, and this seems to be a theme in this series.
February 27, 2020
Pie Before Guys by Kirsten Weiss is the 4th book in the Pie Town Mystery series, and I loved it. Pie Before Guys is a perfect blend of mystery and humor. Val owns the restaurant Pie Town, and she solves murders with her side kick, Charlene her elderly pie crust maker. Pie Town is hosting a poetry slam, and her employee Abril, is hosting it. When professor Michael Starke, who participated in the slam, is found dead a short distance away, the sleuthing begins. Not only is this book really funny, I often found myself laughing out loud a lot, the mystery kept me guessing until the end. I found this book to be a quick read, I read it in one day, with a well developed plot and unique characters. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. If you love humorous cozy mysteries, I strongly recommend this book and series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 1, 2022
3 1/2 stars brought down to 3
Meh. This book sat in my TBR for far too long and so I read it. It was a miss for me. I don't know if I just didn't care for the writing style or if it was the fact that I didn't care for Val at all. I don't know. The relationships felt fake to me with the exception of her friendship with Charlene. Sadly, I would pass on this one.
Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are mine and mine alone.
Meh. This book sat in my TBR for far too long and so I read it. It was a miss for me. I don't know if I just didn't care for the writing style or if it was the fact that I didn't care for Val at all. I don't know. The relationships felt fake to me with the exception of her friendship with Charlene. Sadly, I would pass on this one.
Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are mine and mine alone.
January 23, 2020
While I certainly didn't set myself up for success by crash landing into the middle of the series without reading any of the previous books (or anything else by this author), ultimately this story left me cold.
The setup is charming--Val runs a pie shop in a small town and, along with her pie crust maker Charlene, she can't help but engage in some amateur sleuthing anytime a body is found. Unfortunately, the town is filled with with flat, one-note characters--crotchety old guys always eager for some new gossip, youths who are only identified by their interest in gaming, some weirdos that are super passionate about UFOs, Charlene's nemesis Marla, and Val's seemingly perfect cop boyfriend Gordon. Perhaps all those characters are more fully fleshed out in the previous books, but in this one those characters felt like hastily sketched stereotypes so as to ensure that Val's pie shop wasn't perpetually empty.
What I found to be the most frustrating, though, was Val and Charlene's relationship. It reeks of codependency. Val is perpetually taking responsibility for Charlene's erratic behavior, worrying about Charlene's safety and welfare when she disappears on her, and putting Charlene's (sometimes bonkers) needs before her own, even at the risk of her own physical safety. Multiple times during the story I wanted to shake Val and tell her that her relationship with Charlene is not what a healthy, found-family relationship looks like. Maybe for some other folks Charlene's behavior reads as a wacky old broad just out there in the world loving life and being spontaneous, but all I could see was a lack of healthy boundaries and a clear need for Val to go see a therapist.
The setup is charming--Val runs a pie shop in a small town and, along with her pie crust maker Charlene, she can't help but engage in some amateur sleuthing anytime a body is found. Unfortunately, the town is filled with with flat, one-note characters--crotchety old guys always eager for some new gossip, youths who are only identified by their interest in gaming, some weirdos that are super passionate about UFOs, Charlene's nemesis Marla, and Val's seemingly perfect cop boyfriend Gordon. Perhaps all those characters are more fully fleshed out in the previous books, but in this one those characters felt like hastily sketched stereotypes so as to ensure that Val's pie shop wasn't perpetually empty.
What I found to be the most frustrating, though, was Val and Charlene's relationship. It reeks of codependency. Val is perpetually taking responsibility for Charlene's erratic behavior, worrying about Charlene's safety and welfare when she disappears on her, and putting Charlene's (sometimes bonkers) needs before her own, even at the risk of her own physical safety. Multiple times during the story I wanted to shake Val and tell her that her relationship with Charlene is not what a healthy, found-family relationship looks like. Maybe for some other folks Charlene's behavior reads as a wacky old broad just out there in the world loving life and being spontaneous, but all I could see was a lack of healthy boundaries and a clear need for Val to go see a therapist.
January 27, 2020
4.5 Stars
This is the fourth book in the Pie Town Mystery series by Kirsten Weiss.
Basic premise: A local professor is found dead after reading poetry at a poetry slam put on at the Pie Town Bakery. As soon as the body was discovered the suspect list just kept growing in leaps and bounds. Val reluctantly puts the Baker Street Bakers back into the mystery solving business, much to Detective Carmichael’s dismay.
There was all kinds of gooey goodness in this story. The characters were amazing. So fully formed it felt like I was reading about our neighbor’s exploits instead of reading a book. Even the cat had a quirky disposition.
I have to admit that the mystery was so good that when the killer was finally revealed, I was stunned. I didn’t even have that person on my suspect list. Figures! This series just keeps getting better and better and I look forward to each release as they come out.
If you haven’t read this series, might I suggest you start from the beginning. Let the atmosphere enfold you into the Pie Town goodness. You won’t regret it.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the fourth book in the Pie Town Mystery series by Kirsten Weiss.
Basic premise: A local professor is found dead after reading poetry at a poetry slam put on at the Pie Town Bakery. As soon as the body was discovered the suspect list just kept growing in leaps and bounds. Val reluctantly puts the Baker Street Bakers back into the mystery solving business, much to Detective Carmichael’s dismay.
There was all kinds of gooey goodness in this story. The characters were amazing. So fully formed it felt like I was reading about our neighbor’s exploits instead of reading a book. Even the cat had a quirky disposition.
I have to admit that the mystery was so good that when the killer was finally revealed, I was stunned. I didn’t even have that person on my suspect list. Figures! This series just keeps getting better and better and I look forward to each release as they come out.
If you haven’t read this series, might I suggest you start from the beginning. Let the atmosphere enfold you into the Pie Town goodness. You won’t regret it.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
February 25, 2020
Val isn't very into having a poetry slam at her pie shop but her young employee Abril who set it up is very excited. Val can't believe how boring the evening is until several of the posts get into a shouting match, one of those being Abril's professor. The other combatant is accusing the professor of plagiarism and just won't let it go. All goes from bad to worse when the body of the professor is found dead not long after the evening shut down. Val can't believe her pie shop is in the cross hairs again and knows that investigating is in her future. Val and Charlene start looking for clues but end up empty handed when it comes to clues. Val realizes they need to dig deeper otherwise it could be.The end for Pie Town. Meanwhile Val is trying to work on her new found relationship with her half-brother, he has moved to town which.gives them a chance.to get.to know each other better. Follow along as Val does her best to get Pie Town out of a bad light, works on her relationship with her half-brother, and keeps Charlene out of trouble. This series is filled with eccentric characters that will keep.you.coming back for more!
April 14, 2020
PIES BEFORE GUYS, the fourth book in the Pie Town Mysteries by Kirsten Weiss, is the first I’ve read in the series. I found it easy to read as a standalone and the author gives out just enough backstory so I never felt lost. The characters were quirky (elderly Charlene is especially a hoot, but at times got a little out of control) and I was especially interested in seeing how the protagonist, Val, and her newfound half-brother’s relationship progressed. The plot was complex enough that I didn’t see some of the twists coming and there were plenty of suspects to keep me guessing as to who the culprit was. The rousing reveal wrapped up the threads of the story into a satisfying conclusion. I was happy that Ms. Weiss includes several pie recipes at the back of the book to fit the theme and they all sounds delicious!
February 3, 2020
Pie, murder and UFO's set the scene for this latest book. A poetry "slam" held at Pie Town results in the death of a local professor. Val and Charlene are trying hard not to become the latest victims!
I am a fan of the series and it had all the Val and Charlene humor as the other books. The mystery was complex and I didn't guess "whodunit" until the end. For me, I was a little annoyed by Charlene putting Val in dangerous situations and at Val for doing crazy things. Val's relationship with her newly found half-brother was sad because they couldn't seem to connect. I was glad to see Val stand up for herself in the end.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for a fair and honest review of this book.
I am a fan of the series and it had all the Val and Charlene humor as the other books. The mystery was complex and I didn't guess "whodunit" until the end. For me, I was a little annoyed by Charlene putting Val in dangerous situations and at Val for doing crazy things. Val's relationship with her newly found half-brother was sad because they couldn't seem to connect. I was glad to see Val stand up for herself in the end.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for a fair and honest review of this book.
December 5, 2020
A good entry in this series. While not a total must read for me, I do enjoy it more than most. This entry gets better marks because Val comes to come realizations that I think will help ME to enjoy it more. A friend started this series but gave up because she found Val's senior sleuth and pie crust maker to be too annoying. I have to admit, I nearly put various books down because of it but plowed on through. I have high hopes for the next one.
January 2, 2022
3.5
I haven't read the previous books in the series but had no trouble reading this book as standalone. Val Harris own a pie shop and said yes to let one of her employee organize a poetry slam event at the bakery. But when one of the poet is found dead at the end of the evening, and rumors fly about another criminal act that happened near Pie Town, Val and her nutty friend and employee decide to investigate.
I haven't read the previous books in the series but had no trouble reading this book as standalone. Val Harris own a pie shop and said yes to let one of her employee organize a poetry slam event at the bakery. But when one of the poet is found dead at the end of the evening, and rumors fly about another criminal act that happened near Pie Town, Val and her nutty friend and employee decide to investigate.
August 25, 2025
4 stelle stiracchiate. Ho pensato per gran parte del libro di togliere almeno mezza stella perché veramente non sopporto la spalla senile della protagonista. Senile è il termine sbagliato, sarebbe più appropriato dire che è semplicemente pazza. E la protagonista si lascia mettere i piedi in testa perché la tipa ha quasi ottanta anni. Mah... Però il giallo mi è piaciuto e mi ha dato da pensare su chi fosse il colpevole; è quello che ha salvato il libro.
March 24, 2021
3.5 stars. I enjoyed the quirkiness of the characters and the crime they had to solve. The murder seemed easier to figure out than her previous novels. Overall, a good addition. Looking forward to the next
January 17, 2020
I don't like the Pie Town series as much as Kirsten's other series. That said I liked this one. It has a lot going on. I especially like the pie tin UFO's. I think it could have been tightened up a little bit in the middle as it seemed to cover the same ground several times. #PiesbeforeGuys #NetGalley
June 13, 2020
Wacky characters, murders to solve, bad poetry, delicious pies-savory and sweet, recipes included- and a wild hoax involving UFO pie tins...this was an enjoyable read!
April 28, 2022
Charlotte gets on my very last nerve, but this was a fun mystery.
October 12, 2020
I am really enjoying this s series!
March 5, 2020
This latest installment of books-I-get-up-at-6-am-in-order-to-read is Pies Before Guys by Kirsten Weiss. This is (as indicated by the frankly hilarious and also painfully accurate title) another baking-type mystery.
AND this one has recipes as well, people! I cannot even describe how happy that makes me. Plus, they seem like wicked good recipes, too - I can't wait until the stars align and I have the money, the time, and the kitchen equipment and facilities to try some of them. So, it could be a while.
Still, this is another series that I think I will start trying to hunt down in physical copy - and yes, it is a series. I've given up completely on landing upon the first book in a series at this point - Pies Before Guys is in fact the fourth book in this particular series (Pie Town Mysteries). Fortunately for me, this is another book series written in such a way that you can in fact pick one up at random (at least from what I gather about this one).
Now: the story. Our main character is Val, owner and baker of Pie Town in the small town of San Nicholas. She is involved with the local detective (who sounds like an absolute winner, let's be real here) and he best friend is also her chief pie-crust-maker: 70-something-year-old Charlene. Now, I find Charlene both absolutely hilarious and an absolute danger to herself and those around her - I'm sure we all know someone like that, but it speaks to Ms. Weiss' writing that Charlene frustrated me as much as she did.
The murder mystery in this book actually involves more than one death - a multi-murder, if you will. Somewhat ominously, it also centres around a university (college, because America) faculty, and for those who don't know, I am a student in, a tutor for, and a staff member of a university faculty in addition to being a campus resident. Concerning, no?
Now the mystery was one that I had figured around two thirds of the way through, so it wasn't as snarly as some I have read - then again, it is a cozy mystery and I don't read them to give myself a headache trying to figure out whodunnit. I read them because they are fun, and because some of them come with recipes. Which I want to try, because they sound amazing.
This is well worth a look (though, maybe start at the first book? Which is called The Quiche and the Dead, if anyone was wondering), and an enjoyable way to pass a few hours reading and, should you so wish, maybe a few hours in the kitchen as well.
AND this one has recipes as well, people! I cannot even describe how happy that makes me. Plus, they seem like wicked good recipes, too - I can't wait until the stars align and I have the money, the time, and the kitchen equipment and facilities to try some of them. So, it could be a while.
Still, this is another series that I think I will start trying to hunt down in physical copy - and yes, it is a series. I've given up completely on landing upon the first book in a series at this point - Pies Before Guys is in fact the fourth book in this particular series (Pie Town Mysteries). Fortunately for me, this is another book series written in such a way that you can in fact pick one up at random (at least from what I gather about this one).
Now: the story. Our main character is Val, owner and baker of Pie Town in the small town of San Nicholas. She is involved with the local detective (who sounds like an absolute winner, let's be real here) and he best friend is also her chief pie-crust-maker: 70-something-year-old Charlene. Now, I find Charlene both absolutely hilarious and an absolute danger to herself and those around her - I'm sure we all know someone like that, but it speaks to Ms. Weiss' writing that Charlene frustrated me as much as she did.
The murder mystery in this book actually involves more than one death - a multi-murder, if you will. Somewhat ominously, it also centres around a university (college, because America) faculty, and for those who don't know, I am a student in, a tutor for, and a staff member of a university faculty in addition to being a campus resident. Concerning, no?
Now the mystery was one that I had figured around two thirds of the way through, so it wasn't as snarly as some I have read - then again, it is a cozy mystery and I don't read them to give myself a headache trying to figure out whodunnit. I read them because they are fun, and because some of them come with recipes. Which I want to try, because they sound amazing.
This is well worth a look (though, maybe start at the first book? Which is called The Quiche and the Dead, if anyone was wondering), and an enjoyable way to pass a few hours reading and, should you so wish, maybe a few hours in the kitchen as well.
March 31, 2020
English professor Michael Stark is participating in a Poetry Slam at Pie Town. He reads a rather strange poem that has him in an argument with another English Professor. When his body if found, stabbed with a saber, it is broadcast that Pie Town is involved in a another murder, as he was killed leaving the event. Worried about the reputation of Pie Town, Val and Charlene need to find the murderer. Val's boyfriend, Detective Gordon Carmichael, once again is at risk of being kicked off the case due to Val's interference. She promises not to share any information or take risks. Charlene never listens and is soon posting on her social media pages. Can they solve the case and not risk the business?
I really like the protagonist in this series, Val Harris. She is a sweet, sensible girl who is building a successful pie business, after being dumped by her fiancee a few years earlier. I am enjoying her relationship with Gordon and how it is developing. Val is also reliable and values her promises which is also how she ends up in hot water. The one thing I wish Val would do is get a backbone where Charlene is concerned. She gets herself into trouble going along with Charlene's ideas. Of course, that is also where the humour comes in. Charlene is a hoot and I loved her "Pie Town UFOs" that caused some problems in the community. She is very inventive, has a vivid imagination and often comes up with some rather odd ideas and plans. She loves technology, specifically Social Media. She uses it to give hints and tidbits of information regarding Pie Town and the investigation, all hoping to draw in customers for the store. The story was well-written, amusing and full of clues and red herrings. I thought I had figured out who the culprit was and I was right, but the motive was totally not what I was thinking. Overall, another fun and interesting visit to this small town where the regulars at Pie Town add another dimension to these mysteries. I recommend this one to cozy mystery lovers, especially culinary cozies.
I really like the protagonist in this series, Val Harris. She is a sweet, sensible girl who is building a successful pie business, after being dumped by her fiancee a few years earlier. I am enjoying her relationship with Gordon and how it is developing. Val is also reliable and values her promises which is also how she ends up in hot water. The one thing I wish Val would do is get a backbone where Charlene is concerned. She gets herself into trouble going along with Charlene's ideas. Of course, that is also where the humour comes in. Charlene is a hoot and I loved her "Pie Town UFOs" that caused some problems in the community. She is very inventive, has a vivid imagination and often comes up with some rather odd ideas and plans. She loves technology, specifically Social Media. She uses it to give hints and tidbits of information regarding Pie Town and the investigation, all hoping to draw in customers for the store. The story was well-written, amusing and full of clues and red herrings. I thought I had figured out who the culprit was and I was right, but the motive was totally not what I was thinking. Overall, another fun and interesting visit to this small town where the regulars at Pie Town add another dimension to these mysteries. I recommend this one to cozy mystery lovers, especially culinary cozies.
June 7, 2020
A poetry slam at a bakery? Why not! Even though Pie Town proprietor Val Harris would rather be spending time with her newfound half-brother, she knows her employee, Abril, is beyond excited to be hosting the event. Especially since it stars the apple pie of Abril’s eye, poet and professor Michael Starke. But the evening ends on a sour note when Professor Starke is found murdered mere moments after being accused of plagiarism.
Just like that, Pie Town is at the center of another criminal inquiry. At Abril’s request and much to Detective Carmichael’s consternation Val and Charlene decide to investigate Starke’s death. But the case is as tough as an overworked crust and the Baker Street Bakers are only coming up with scraps. If they don’t pinch the cultured killer soon, Pie Town’s reputation could crumble.
The author gives us a complex mystery that is filled with suspects, red herrings, clues, twists, and turns that will have you guessing who the killer is until the end of the book. The characters are well developed, well written, quirky, and engaging which helps make the books story line interesting.
I like that Val is getting to know her new found half-brother Doran so she can have a much needed family relationship. I also like how Val and Gordon's relationship is still developing and going strong. I don't really like Heidi or Marla it seems that their only goal in life are being annoying irritants to Val and Charlene and try to ruin their lives and destroy Pie Town.
I would like to see Val grow a backbone so she's not such a pushover for Charlene when it comes to her crazy antics. I am looking forward to reading book 5 Gourd To Death to see what happens with all the characters.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and Kensington Books for my honest review.
Just like that, Pie Town is at the center of another criminal inquiry. At Abril’s request and much to Detective Carmichael’s consternation Val and Charlene decide to investigate Starke’s death. But the case is as tough as an overworked crust and the Baker Street Bakers are only coming up with scraps. If they don’t pinch the cultured killer soon, Pie Town’s reputation could crumble.
The author gives us a complex mystery that is filled with suspects, red herrings, clues, twists, and turns that will have you guessing who the killer is until the end of the book. The characters are well developed, well written, quirky, and engaging which helps make the books story line interesting.
I like that Val is getting to know her new found half-brother Doran so she can have a much needed family relationship. I also like how Val and Gordon's relationship is still developing and going strong. I don't really like Heidi or Marla it seems that their only goal in life are being annoying irritants to Val and Charlene and try to ruin their lives and destroy Pie Town.
I would like to see Val grow a backbone so she's not such a pushover for Charlene when it comes to her crazy antics. I am looking forward to reading book 5 Gourd To Death to see what happens with all the characters.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and Kensington Books for my honest review.
February 12, 2020
Thank you to Kensington Books for giving me a digital galley of this book in exchange for feedback.
I've been looking forward to "Pies before Guys," because I've already read and enjoyed the previous books in Kirsten Weiss's "Pie Town" series. What I like about these books is that they're a little more youthful than most cozy mysteries. The stereotype is that cozy mysteries are written by and for old women, and I'm fine with that - no one enjoys watching an elderly nun and her cat solve a crime more than I do. But Weiss's "Pie Town" series is cozy mystery for millennials, and I am finding that I really enjoy the slightly-edgy-for-a-cozy-but-still-pretty-cozy tone of them.
In this volume, Val is hosting a poetry reading at Pie Town, facilitated in part by employee Abril, who is excited that her professor will be reading his poems there. The poetry is painfully bad, but when the professor is murdered just after the reading, the problem of bad poetry seems a little insignificant. Should Val investigate? Or should she leave it to her handsome boyfriend the detective, and keep her eyes on her pies? Not related to murder, is it really a good idea for Charlene to start a UFO hoax on YouTube involving branded pie plates?
I found that it took me a little time to get into this one, but by the time Val was digging in the Dumpster for a discarded and possibly important bad poem, I was all in for the Pie Town gang and the solution to the mystery.
Bonus points for included pie recipes, which I almost certainly won't actually cook but still enjoy seeing.
I've been looking forward to "Pies before Guys," because I've already read and enjoyed the previous books in Kirsten Weiss's "Pie Town" series. What I like about these books is that they're a little more youthful than most cozy mysteries. The stereotype is that cozy mysteries are written by and for old women, and I'm fine with that - no one enjoys watching an elderly nun and her cat solve a crime more than I do. But Weiss's "Pie Town" series is cozy mystery for millennials, and I am finding that I really enjoy the slightly-edgy-for-a-cozy-but-still-pretty-cozy tone of them.
In this volume, Val is hosting a poetry reading at Pie Town, facilitated in part by employee Abril, who is excited that her professor will be reading his poems there. The poetry is painfully bad, but when the professor is murdered just after the reading, the problem of bad poetry seems a little insignificant. Should Val investigate? Or should she leave it to her handsome boyfriend the detective, and keep her eyes on her pies? Not related to murder, is it really a good idea for Charlene to start a UFO hoax on YouTube involving branded pie plates?
I found that it took me a little time to get into this one, but by the time Val was digging in the Dumpster for a discarded and possibly important bad poem, I was all in for the Pie Town gang and the solution to the mystery.
Bonus points for included pie recipes, which I almost certainly won't actually cook but still enjoy seeing.
February 12, 2020
Thank you to Kensington Books for giving me a digital galley of this book in exchange for feedback.
I've been looking forward to "Pies before Guys," because I've already read and enjoyed the previous books in Kirsten Weiss's "Pie Town" series. What I like about these books is that they're a little more youthful than most cozy mysteries. The stereotype is that cozy mysteries are written by and for old women, and I'm fine with that - no one enjoys watching an elderly nun and her cat solve a crime more than I do. But Weiss's "Pie Town" series is cozy mystery for millennials, and I am finding that I really enjoy the slightly-edgy-for-a-cozy-but-still-pretty-cozy tone of them.
In this volume, Val is hosting a poetry reading at Pie Town, facilitated in part by employee Abril, who is excited that her professor will be reading his poems there. The poetry is painfully bad, but when the professor is murdered just after the reading, the problem of bad poetry seems a little insignificant. Should Val investigate? Or should she leave it to her handsome boyfriend the detective, and keep her eyes on her pies? Not related to murder, is it really a good idea for Charlene to start a UFO hoax on YouTube involving branded pie plates?
I found that it took me a little time to get into this one, but by the time Val was digging in the Dumpster for a discarded and possibly important bad poem, I was all in for the Pie Town gang and the solution to the mystery.
Bonus points for included pie recipes, which I almost certainly won't actually cook but still enjoy seeing.
I've been looking forward to "Pies before Guys," because I've already read and enjoyed the previous books in Kirsten Weiss's "Pie Town" series. What I like about these books is that they're a little more youthful than most cozy mysteries. The stereotype is that cozy mysteries are written by and for old women, and I'm fine with that - no one enjoys watching an elderly nun and her cat solve a crime more than I do. But Weiss's "Pie Town" series is cozy mystery for millennials, and I am finding that I really enjoy the slightly-edgy-for-a-cozy-but-still-pretty-cozy tone of them.
In this volume, Val is hosting a poetry reading at Pie Town, facilitated in part by employee Abril, who is excited that her professor will be reading his poems there. The poetry is painfully bad, but when the professor is murdered just after the reading, the problem of bad poetry seems a little insignificant. Should Val investigate? Or should she leave it to her handsome boyfriend the detective, and keep her eyes on her pies? Not related to murder, is it really a good idea for Charlene to start a UFO hoax on YouTube involving branded pie plates?
I found that it took me a little time to get into this one, but by the time Val was digging in the Dumpster for a discarded and possibly important bad poem, I was all in for the Pie Town gang and the solution to the mystery.
Bonus points for included pie recipes, which I almost certainly won't actually cook but still enjoy seeing.
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