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A Very Cherry Mystery #2
Cherry Scones & Broken Bones
At the Cherry Orchard Inn, "Cherry scones to die for" turns out to be all too true
Tainted by a recent murder, the Cherry Orchard Inn is struggling to attract guests--until celebrated portrait painter Silvia Lumiere books a room for the summer. Whitney Bloom, the inn's new manager, can't believe her good luck. Between her scrumptious cherry scones and the painter's remarkable talent, the inn swiftly becomes the center of the Cherry Cove art scene.
However, all is not the bowl of cherries it appears. There's a rotten core in the portrait painter that only Whitney and her friends can see. And just as Whitney's baking skills and patience are pushed to their limits, another death occurs at the inn. With all fingers pointing at her, Whitney realizes it will take all her cherry-tastic talents to bake her way out of this one. Includes recipes!
Tainted by a recent murder, the Cherry Orchard Inn is struggling to attract guests--until celebrated portrait painter Silvia Lumiere books a room for the summer. Whitney Bloom, the inn's new manager, can't believe her good luck. Between her scrumptious cherry scones and the painter's remarkable talent, the inn swiftly becomes the center of the Cherry Cove art scene.
However, all is not the bowl of cherries it appears. There's a rotten core in the portrait painter that only Whitney and her friends can see. And just as Whitney's baking skills and patience are pushed to their limits, another death occurs at the inn. With all fingers pointing at her, Whitney realizes it will take all her cherry-tastic talents to bake her way out of this one. Includes recipes!
535 pages, Paperback
Published October 9, 2019
37 people are currently reading
440 people want to read
About the author
Darci Hannah
14 books777 followersCozy mystery author, Darci Hannah, is a native of the Midwest and currently lives in a small town in Michigan. Darci is a lifelong lover of the Great Lakes, a natural wonder that inspires many of her stories. When Darci isn't baking for family and friends, hiking with her furry pals, Ripley and Finn, or concocting her next cozy mystery, she can be found wandering around picturesque lakeside villages with her hubby, sampling baked goods, and breaking for coffee more often than she should.
In addition to cozy mysteries, Darci's other passion is writing historical fiction. She is the author of The Exile of Sara Stevenson
(Ballantine Books, 2010, 2nd edition by Piffle & Bombast 2016) and The Angel of Blythe Hall (Ballantine Books, 2011)
In addition to cozy mysteries, Darci's other passion is writing historical fiction. She is the author of The Exile of Sara Stevenson
(Ballantine Books, 2010, 2nd edition by Piffle & Bombast 2016) and The Angel of Blythe Hall (Ballantine Books, 2011)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
November 24, 2020
Cherry Scones & Broken Bones by Darci Hannah is the second book in the cozy A Very Cherry Mystery series. As with most cozy mystery series each of the book in this series has it’s own mystery that is fully solved within the book so they can be read as a standalone if choosing to do so.
Whitney Bloom grew up on her parent’s cherry orchard in Door County, Wisconsin but had been living and working in Chicago. After she was fired from her advertising job Whitney took up baking cherry treats but then she got a phone call from home that a murder had occurred at the orchard so she immediately headed back.
After helping solve that first murder at the family cherry orchard Whitney took the job as the Cherry Orchard Inn’s manager. However, business hasn’t been so great at the end after the murder occured so when Whitney gets a new celebrity guest she hopes things will pick up again. Unfortunately for Whitney no sooner than she knows it she has yet another death on her hands and this time all signs are pointing to Whitney being involved so she just has to clear her name.
The A Very Cherry Mystery series is definitely one that is on the lighter side with it being just as much simply charming fun as it is mysterious. Having read both of these I found the main character quite likable and plenty of humor involved that made for an entertaining read. Not sure if this series will continue on as book two has been out a while now but I did have a good time reading these even if it doesn’t.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Whitney Bloom grew up on her parent’s cherry orchard in Door County, Wisconsin but had been living and working in Chicago. After she was fired from her advertising job Whitney took up baking cherry treats but then she got a phone call from home that a murder had occurred at the orchard so she immediately headed back.
After helping solve that first murder at the family cherry orchard Whitney took the job as the Cherry Orchard Inn’s manager. However, business hasn’t been so great at the end after the murder occured so when Whitney gets a new celebrity guest she hopes things will pick up again. Unfortunately for Whitney no sooner than she knows it she has yet another death on her hands and this time all signs are pointing to Whitney being involved so she just has to clear her name.
The A Very Cherry Mystery series is definitely one that is on the lighter side with it being just as much simply charming fun as it is mysterious. Having read both of these I found the main character quite likable and plenty of humor involved that made for an entertaining read. Not sure if this series will continue on as book two has been out a while now but I did have a good time reading these even if it doesn’t.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
June 19, 2019
I finished the second book in the Very Cherry Mysteries this week and I loved it—so charming! In Darci Hannah’s Cherry Scones and Broken Bones, manager of the Cherry Orchard Inn Whitney Bloom finds herself on the suspect list when a prominent artist is murdered with one of Whitney’s famous cherry scones. What a way to go!
About the Book
The Cherry Orchard Inn in Cherry Cove, WI is struggling to keep the guestbook full after the unfortunate murder that occurred there. But Whitney Bloom is determined to help her family out. Serving up trays of her most delicious cherry baked goods is sure to keep the guests happy.
That is until renowned artist Sylvia Lumiere shows up and starts terrorizing the staff! Sylvia’s talent as a painter is matched only by her nasty personality. She belittles Whitney’s staff, refuses to pay for things, and demands an extra room for free for her handsome man-bun-sporting assistant.
And if that weren’t bad enough, the people in Cherry Cove seem to adore what Sylvia brings to their humble town! Whitney is just about at her wits end when Sylvia is found dead one morning, suffocated by a cherry scone and shoved down the staircase. Now Whitney finds herself the prime suspect, due to her known dislike of the artist. But Whitney wasn’t the only enemy Sylvia made. There’s a list of suspects growing longer by the day!
Whitney now must hunt down the clues and find the killer herself, before another guest dies or she finds herself behind bars.
Reflection
This cozy is fun, refreshing, and entertaining! It’s definitely on the lighter-side of cozies and it is a perfect summer read. It is the second book in the series but completely works as a standalone, though I plan to go back and read the first since I loved the characters so much!
Whitney is a delight to read as she suffers through the difficulties of a customer service job, a love triangle, and being a suspect for murder. In the last book, we find out her boyfriend Tate has cheated on her while she was in Chicago. She eventually moves back to Cherry Cove to help out with the inn. And there she becomes reacquainted with an old friend of hers and Tate’s named Jack, the local police officer turned hottie who just so happens to be the one investigating the murder!
I really enjoyed the love triangle, and it felt so realistic. Whitney is confused. She isn’t totally over what Tate did, but they are also still attracted to eachother. Then she has Jack, who she is interested in but she’s unsure of his feelings for her. Not to mention that Jack is forced to consider her as a suspect after the murder weapon is found to be Whitney’s own backed goods! I really liked both Tate and Jack in different ways, though Tate is a total Don Juan and not to be trusted!
Sylvia was a real piece of work! I felt so infuriated on behalf of Whitney seeing how Sylvia treated her and the staff. She is so mean-spirited! And as we will soon find out, the staff at Cherry Orchard Inn aren’t the only people she treated that way. But I’ll let you find out what that means when you read it!!
The mystery was well-plotted and filled with suspects and interesting characters. This was one where there were so many people that had a motive, that it truly could have gone anywhere. I liked following Whitney as she chased down leads and clues. And the reveal at the end was surprising and a lot of fun!
Thank you to Midnight Ink and Kaye Publicity for my copy. Opinions are my own.
About the Book
The Cherry Orchard Inn in Cherry Cove, WI is struggling to keep the guestbook full after the unfortunate murder that occurred there. But Whitney Bloom is determined to help her family out. Serving up trays of her most delicious cherry baked goods is sure to keep the guests happy.
That is until renowned artist Sylvia Lumiere shows up and starts terrorizing the staff! Sylvia’s talent as a painter is matched only by her nasty personality. She belittles Whitney’s staff, refuses to pay for things, and demands an extra room for free for her handsome man-bun-sporting assistant.
And if that weren’t bad enough, the people in Cherry Cove seem to adore what Sylvia brings to their humble town! Whitney is just about at her wits end when Sylvia is found dead one morning, suffocated by a cherry scone and shoved down the staircase. Now Whitney finds herself the prime suspect, due to her known dislike of the artist. But Whitney wasn’t the only enemy Sylvia made. There’s a list of suspects growing longer by the day!
Whitney now must hunt down the clues and find the killer herself, before another guest dies or she finds herself behind bars.
Reflection
This cozy is fun, refreshing, and entertaining! It’s definitely on the lighter-side of cozies and it is a perfect summer read. It is the second book in the series but completely works as a standalone, though I plan to go back and read the first since I loved the characters so much!
Whitney is a delight to read as she suffers through the difficulties of a customer service job, a love triangle, and being a suspect for murder. In the last book, we find out her boyfriend Tate has cheated on her while she was in Chicago. She eventually moves back to Cherry Cove to help out with the inn. And there she becomes reacquainted with an old friend of hers and Tate’s named Jack, the local police officer turned hottie who just so happens to be the one investigating the murder!
I really enjoyed the love triangle, and it felt so realistic. Whitney is confused. She isn’t totally over what Tate did, but they are also still attracted to eachother. Then she has Jack, who she is interested in but she’s unsure of his feelings for her. Not to mention that Jack is forced to consider her as a suspect after the murder weapon is found to be Whitney’s own backed goods! I really liked both Tate and Jack in different ways, though Tate is a total Don Juan and not to be trusted!
Sylvia was a real piece of work! I felt so infuriated on behalf of Whitney seeing how Sylvia treated her and the staff. She is so mean-spirited! And as we will soon find out, the staff at Cherry Orchard Inn aren’t the only people she treated that way. But I’ll let you find out what that means when you read it!!
The mystery was well-plotted and filled with suspects and interesting characters. This was one where there were so many people that had a motive, that it truly could have gone anywhere. I liked following Whitney as she chased down leads and clues. And the reveal at the end was surprising and a lot of fun!
Thank you to Midnight Ink and Kaye Publicity for my copy. Opinions are my own.
April 27, 2019
This is the second book in the Very Cherry Murder series by Darci Hannah. Although I did not read the first book in the series i had little trouble getting up to speed with this book. The mystery stands alone and the relationships between Whitney, the principal and the secondary characters were easily understood.
Whitney’s parents have given her the responsibility of running their B&B in Wisconsin. In addition, she is an accomplished baker and in known for her signature cherry scones. Both the existence of the B&B and Whitney herself are put at risk when their most recent and most famous guest is murdered in the B&B. The victim is found at the foot of the main stairs, one of Whitney’s cherry scones stuffed in her mouth. Suspicion quickly falls on Whitney as she has no alibi and had been driven to distraction by the guests unreasonable demands of her time and the B&B itself.
When Whitney is finally ruled out as the possible murderer she feels compelled to solve the mystery as the B&B is suffering, having been closed by the police as a crime scene. It’s the height of the tourist season and Whitney is worried they won’t be able to recover from the loss of business.
It was difficult for me to develop any positive feeling toward Whitney. Although she is close to thirty years old, she behaves more like a high-schooler, not knowing how to share her interest in her newest crush. In addition, she has extensive history with the young man’s friend and Whitney becomes completely flustered when the two men discover she is interested in both of them and doesn’t know how to move forward for fear she will ruin their friendship. The men’s reactions are no more mature than Whitney’s and it all reads as if you are reading a book better suited to teenagers.
There are some potentially interesting secondary characters among Whitney’s friends and relative. It will be interesting to get to know these characters as the series continues. As it stands at the moment, these characters are not fully developed and are a bit too shallow to develop strong feelings toward them.
Whitney also has an irritating “habit of repeatedly starting her comments with expletives such as “Holy Cobbler” (which is used more than once or twice) and “Holy Hand Grenades”. These pulled me out of the story as I was routinely reminded of the cartoons with Batman and Robin and Robin’s “Holy Batman” expletives.
The mystery has good potential, however there aren’t as many clues and red herrings as I would like. Instead the author depends on a “big reveal” at the end that relied more on the unbalanced nature of the murderer. For the reader who likes to have a level playing field with clues spread out and hopefully well hidden or disguised, this style of writing may be a disappointment. The actual identity of the murderer was a nice twist, and one I had determined prior to the end of the book.
For readers who are interested in a strong romantic element to their mystery books, this may hold some appeal. It is a pleasant cozy, in that there is not a tremendous amount of anxiety producing activity. My thanks to NetGalley and Midnight Ink for providing me an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review.
Whitney’s parents have given her the responsibility of running their B&B in Wisconsin. In addition, she is an accomplished baker and in known for her signature cherry scones. Both the existence of the B&B and Whitney herself are put at risk when their most recent and most famous guest is murdered in the B&B. The victim is found at the foot of the main stairs, one of Whitney’s cherry scones stuffed in her mouth. Suspicion quickly falls on Whitney as she has no alibi and had been driven to distraction by the guests unreasonable demands of her time and the B&B itself.
When Whitney is finally ruled out as the possible murderer she feels compelled to solve the mystery as the B&B is suffering, having been closed by the police as a crime scene. It’s the height of the tourist season and Whitney is worried they won’t be able to recover from the loss of business.
It was difficult for me to develop any positive feeling toward Whitney. Although she is close to thirty years old, she behaves more like a high-schooler, not knowing how to share her interest in her newest crush. In addition, she has extensive history with the young man’s friend and Whitney becomes completely flustered when the two men discover she is interested in both of them and doesn’t know how to move forward for fear she will ruin their friendship. The men’s reactions are no more mature than Whitney’s and it all reads as if you are reading a book better suited to teenagers.
There are some potentially interesting secondary characters among Whitney’s friends and relative. It will be interesting to get to know these characters as the series continues. As it stands at the moment, these characters are not fully developed and are a bit too shallow to develop strong feelings toward them.
Whitney also has an irritating “habit of repeatedly starting her comments with expletives such as “Holy Cobbler” (which is used more than once or twice) and “Holy Hand Grenades”. These pulled me out of the story as I was routinely reminded of the cartoons with Batman and Robin and Robin’s “Holy Batman” expletives.
The mystery has good potential, however there aren’t as many clues and red herrings as I would like. Instead the author depends on a “big reveal” at the end that relied more on the unbalanced nature of the murderer. For the reader who likes to have a level playing field with clues spread out and hopefully well hidden or disguised, this style of writing may be a disappointment. The actual identity of the murderer was a nice twist, and one I had determined prior to the end of the book.
For readers who are interested in a strong romantic element to their mystery books, this may hold some appeal. It is a pleasant cozy, in that there is not a tremendous amount of anxiety producing activity. My thanks to NetGalley and Midnight Ink for providing me an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review.
June 27, 2019
A new author to me. I'm so happy to have given this series a chance. I enjoyed CHERRY SCONES & BROKEN BONES, and I look forward to more in this series.
March 4, 2019
Thank you Netgalley and the Publisher for the chance to read this book!
I have read the first book, so I wasn't completely lost when I started this one. I was hopeful as to where the romance was headed, and I was delighted to see it go right where I wanted. I knew who was going to be the victim right form the beginning; if no one likes a character, then sure enough there's a huge pool of suspects and motives and yet again, I was right. It was a fun mystery to solve, especially with everything happening in the background.
My main concern with this book was no anything to do with the writing and characters, but with the format. So many words were chopped up in my copy that I couldn't read them, it was something to do with the letter F, because words like coffee were coee, and office was oce. More often than not I was left scratching my head as to what a word actually was. I've never come across this issue in a kindle book before!
So I enjoyed the story, and imagine the format issue is long since solved. Three stars.
I have read the first book, so I wasn't completely lost when I started this one. I was hopeful as to where the romance was headed, and I was delighted to see it go right where I wanted. I knew who was going to be the victim right form the beginning; if no one likes a character, then sure enough there's a huge pool of suspects and motives and yet again, I was right. It was a fun mystery to solve, especially with everything happening in the background.
My main concern with this book was no anything to do with the writing and characters, but with the format. So many words were chopped up in my copy that I couldn't read them, it was something to do with the letter F, because words like coffee were coee, and office was oce. More often than not I was left scratching my head as to what a word actually was. I've never come across this issue in a kindle book before!
So I enjoyed the story, and imagine the format issue is long since solved. Three stars.
July 3, 2019
I received this book via Netgalley in return for an honest review. I really enjoyed this cozy mystery set near the lakes in Wisconsin. The owner of the Cherry Orchard Inn, Whitney Bloom, gets involved in a murder committed in her business. At first she's the prime suspect, but with the help of her friends she works to find the actual murderer. All the characters were well developed and I really enjoyed the story.
May 16, 2019
Cherry Scones & Broken Bones by Darci Hannah is the 2nd book in A Very Cherry Mystery series, and another great addition. Whitney Bloom was a baker in Chicago, but she returns home to Door County, Wisconsin. Her parents own the Cherry Orchard Inn, along with a cherry orchard, and Whitney is now the Inn manager. Unfortunately there was a murder at the Inn recently, so she is working hard to attract guests. Silvia Lumiere has agreed to stay at the Inn all summer, she is a famous portrait painter. Soon the guests are rushing to the Inn, until another murder occurs. I loved this book, and can't wait for the next book in the series. I found this book to be a quick and fun read, with a well developed plot and characters. If you love fun cozy mysteries, which are my favorite, you will love this book, and book one too, Cherry Pies & Deadly Lies. Highly recommended.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Midnight Ink Publishing. Thank you.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Midnight Ink Publishing. Thank you.
October 20, 2019
After a recent murder, Cherry Orchard Inn is trying to build their business back up. A celebrated portrait painter comes to stay free for the summer. While she is very talented, she is also extremely rude and mean to everyone around here. When she is found dead at the bottom of the stairs of the inn with a cherry scone shoved in her mouth, the first person on the suspect list is Whitney the inn's manager. Whitney tries to figure out who did it so she can get off the list. Whitney is also trying to decide which of two beaus she wants to be with.
June 7, 2019
An enjoyable fast paced story that includes murder, love, friendship, ego, vanity and a couple goats. Three weeks into managing the Cherry Orchard Inn Whitney Bloom finds herself dealing with an impossible guest who is also a famous artist. Everyone thinks the artist needs to at least be tolerated if not pampered. Whitney is at wits end thinking things could not get any worse but then there is a murder and Whitney is the #1 suspect.
Although this is the second book in A Very Cherry Mystery series it could easily be read as a stand alone. Thanks to Midnight Ink and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
Although this is the second book in A Very Cherry Mystery series it could easily be read as a stand alone. Thanks to Midnight Ink and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
June 16, 2019
This book was quite a bit better than the first one, and I have to say I'm over the moon about the triangle outcome. It made for a very sweet ending. In this case (as opposed to the first one where a sweet older man that we never got to know was killed) the person who was killed tended to probably deserve it, at least in the fictional sense. Silvia was a brilliant painter, but everyone admitted that she was obnoxious and sometimes downright mean to people and used them mercilessly. Whitney was the main suspect since she had been the primary target of Silvia's sharp tongue and criticism, and one of her scones was used to kill the woman.
There were a couple of great goat scenes! If you haven't read the first, the police chief inherited a couple of mischievous billy goats when he got the little cottage used for the police station. I think the funnier scene that had me laughing out loud was the goat yoga! Then there were infuriating relationship scenes where I felt like pounding someone, but everything worked out, the killer was brought to justice, and life at the inn got back to normal. Aside from the juvenile-sounding expletives that are used throughout the book, it's otherwise very well-written and I will keep reading the series. I'm hoping as the series progresses, those annoying phrases and J/C-bombs will fade away, because otherwise, the characters can and do sound mature and professional most of the time.
There were a couple of great goat scenes! If you haven't read the first, the police chief inherited a couple of mischievous billy goats when he got the little cottage used for the police station. I think the funnier scene that had me laughing out loud was the goat yoga! Then there were infuriating relationship scenes where I felt like pounding someone, but everything worked out, the killer was brought to justice, and life at the inn got back to normal. Aside from the juvenile-sounding expletives that are used throughout the book, it's otherwise very well-written and I will keep reading the series. I'm hoping as the series progresses, those annoying phrases and J/C-bombs will fade away, because otherwise, the characters can and do sound mature and professional most of the time.
April 22, 2019
Cherry Scones & Broken Bones is the second installment in the "Very Cherry Mystery Series". This was the first book in the series that I read and I am definitely looking forward to reading the first one "Cherry Pies and Deadly Lies".
Tainted by a recent murder, the Cherry Orchard Inn is struggling to attract guests . . . until celebrated portrait painter, Silvia Lumiere, books a room for the summer. Whitney Bloom, the inn's new manager, can't believe her good luck. Between her scrumptious cherry scones and the painter's remarkable talent, the inn swiftly becomes the center of the Cherry Cove art scene. However, all is not the bowl of cherries it appears. There's a rotten core in the portrait painter that only Whitney and her friends can see. And just as Whitney's baking skills and patience are pushed to their limits, another death occurs at the inn. With all fingers pointing at her, Whitney realizes it will take all her cherry-tastic talents to bake her way out of this one.
I enjoyed the quirky characters in this story and thought they were well-rounded. The setting of Cherry Cove is delightful and I always enjoy the small-town atmosphere in cozies.
I found myself drawn into the story and the plot has lots of twists and turns and a few red herrings that kept me intrigued and wanting to know more. I thought I had figured out who the murderer was but second guessed myself till the end.
The formatting was a bit off and several words were missing letters as others have mentioned but this is most likely a formatting issue with the ARC and will be fixed in editing before publishing.
I highly recommend Cherry Scones & Broken Bones to all my cozy mystery loving friends and anyone who adore quirky characters..
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book courtesy of Midnight Ink and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Tainted by a recent murder, the Cherry Orchard Inn is struggling to attract guests . . . until celebrated portrait painter, Silvia Lumiere, books a room for the summer. Whitney Bloom, the inn's new manager, can't believe her good luck. Between her scrumptious cherry scones and the painter's remarkable talent, the inn swiftly becomes the center of the Cherry Cove art scene. However, all is not the bowl of cherries it appears. There's a rotten core in the portrait painter that only Whitney and her friends can see. And just as Whitney's baking skills and patience are pushed to their limits, another death occurs at the inn. With all fingers pointing at her, Whitney realizes it will take all her cherry-tastic talents to bake her way out of this one.
I enjoyed the quirky characters in this story and thought they were well-rounded. The setting of Cherry Cove is delightful and I always enjoy the small-town atmosphere in cozies.
I found myself drawn into the story and the plot has lots of twists and turns and a few red herrings that kept me intrigued and wanting to know more. I thought I had figured out who the murderer was but second guessed myself till the end.
The formatting was a bit off and several words were missing letters as others have mentioned but this is most likely a formatting issue with the ARC and will be fixed in editing before publishing.
I highly recommend Cherry Scones & Broken Bones to all my cozy mystery loving friends and anyone who adore quirky characters..
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book courtesy of Midnight Ink and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 28, 2019
The next installment in the Very Cherry Mystery series finds the lead, amateur sleuth and all-things-cherry baker extraordinaire Whitney Bloom, and her family's Cherry Orchard Inn recovering from the financial strain the murderous antics of the first book, Cherry Pies & Deadly Lies, placed on business. Thankfully--or so it seems--the famous portraitist Silvia Lumiere will be spending her summer in Cherry Cove at the Inn, painting and regaling her many admirers, drumming up business for the Inn, its bakery and kitchen. Unfortunately for Whitney, Silvia is a walking nightmare of spite and vitriol, at turns charming when it benefits her, but mostly a horrible, soul-sucking fiend to the young and talented, such as Ms. Bloom, making Whitney's life as the Inn's manager hell. When Silvia turns up dead, suffocated on Whitney's delectable cherry scones and with a broken neck to boot at the bottom of the Inn's grand staircase one night, the beleaguered Whitney is the prime suspect in the case for her new steamy beau, Cherry Cove's ginger and only police office Jack McLaren. Determined to prove herself innocent, Whitney, along with her cadre of loyal friends Taylor, Hannah, Giff (yes, the Giffster's back, coming to Whit's call from Chicago), and the hunky on-again, off-again boyfriend Tate. Oh, and let's not forget about adorable pooch MacDuff and the screaming goats--they all make appearances, too. Twists, turns, and wackiness abound with Whitney at the helm of her own murder investigation. Who murdered Silvia Lumiere? Why was she strangled with a cherry scone? Who will Whitney choose: Jack or Tate? All these questions are more are revealed in this fun, zany cozy mystery, with bonus delicious cherry-inspired recipes included. Highly recommended.
March 25, 2019
4.5 Stars
I wasn’t quite invested in this book until the portrait painter, Silvia, landed on the scene and put everyone in some sort of fix. This woman was just mean, mean, mean. I wanted to knock her off her block for treating everyone like she did. I mean, I was feeling stress for all these people, especially Whitney. After that, I was all in. I was riding this cherry boat all the way to the end.
Other reviewers said they knew who the murder victim would be from the very beginning but I was clueless. I did not read book one in this series and so I wasn’t as familiar with the characters as others might have been. I felt all the characters were fully developed and you could remember who was who from scene to scene. It some books that is a challenge. No problem here. The character development was excellent, and the storyline really sucks you in. Just a stellar book.
I enjoyed the setting of Cherry Cove too. The references to Chicago and towns surrounding it made it seem like these characters lived in my backyard. I live in the southern part of Illinois and I wondered if I would stumble across any of the action. No really, but it was neat to think about.
This is a series I think cozy mystery lovers would enjoy. Definitely check this one out.
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.
I wasn’t quite invested in this book until the portrait painter, Silvia, landed on the scene and put everyone in some sort of fix. This woman was just mean, mean, mean. I wanted to knock her off her block for treating everyone like she did. I mean, I was feeling stress for all these people, especially Whitney. After that, I was all in. I was riding this cherry boat all the way to the end.
Other reviewers said they knew who the murder victim would be from the very beginning but I was clueless. I did not read book one in this series and so I wasn’t as familiar with the characters as others might have been. I felt all the characters were fully developed and you could remember who was who from scene to scene. It some books that is a challenge. No problem here. The character development was excellent, and the storyline really sucks you in. Just a stellar book.
I enjoyed the setting of Cherry Cove too. The references to Chicago and towns surrounding it made it seem like these characters lived in my backyard. I live in the southern part of Illinois and I wondered if I would stumble across any of the action. No really, but it was neat to think about.
This is a series I think cozy mystery lovers would enjoy. Definitely check this one out.
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.
May 23, 2019
Thanks to the publisher, via Netgalley, for an advance e-galley for honest review.
Culinary cozy mysteries are my favorite sub-subgenre, and this series, set in my home state, holds even more innate appeal. This is a clever, fun cozy. Whitney Bloom has settled into her new role at the Cherry Orchard Inn, but business as usual is interupted by an entitled artist setting up residence at the inn. When, naturally, said artist is found dead at the bottom of the stairs with one of Whitney's cherry scones shoved down her throat, Whitney becomes a suspect (throwing a curve in her blossoming relationship with the police chief).
I'm enjoying this series (among a few others) as it features a younger protagonist than sometimes found in cozies- who actually acts her age (often, I find even "younger" protagonists in cozy series have the stereotypical habits of elderly women). She's not only navigating her career, but also her friendships and relationships. She, and her friends, are funny without veering into caricatures, and the nature of the action being centered around an inn makes sense for the rotating cast of characters needed for a series such as this. Definitely one I'll continue to read!
Culinary cozy mysteries are my favorite sub-subgenre, and this series, set in my home state, holds even more innate appeal. This is a clever, fun cozy. Whitney Bloom has settled into her new role at the Cherry Orchard Inn, but business as usual is interupted by an entitled artist setting up residence at the inn. When, naturally, said artist is found dead at the bottom of the stairs with one of Whitney's cherry scones shoved down her throat, Whitney becomes a suspect (throwing a curve in her blossoming relationship with the police chief).
I'm enjoying this series (among a few others) as it features a younger protagonist than sometimes found in cozies- who actually acts her age (often, I find even "younger" protagonists in cozy series have the stereotypical habits of elderly women). She's not only navigating her career, but also her friendships and relationships. She, and her friends, are funny without veering into caricatures, and the nature of the action being centered around an inn makes sense for the rotating cast of characters needed for a series such as this. Definitely one I'll continue to read!
July 12, 2019
This is the second book in the Very Cherry Mystery series. In the beginning, I found the story to be a little on the slow side, but was delighted to see it pick up speed while also giving me a chance to know the characters. I soon found myself enthralled with the story. Although, I did not read the first in this series, there was enough background to catch me up to speed. Our protagonist, Whitney Bloom is the innkeeper at the Cherry Orchard Inn, and the creator of all things cherry and delicious. Especially her cherry scones. They are to die for.
The Inn was doing well until, a famous, albeit, obnoxious and rude artist staying at the Inn, is found dead at the end of the stairs having died with one of Whitney’s Cherry Scones in her mouth. With Whitney as a prime suspect, she is determined to clear her name. Enlisting the help of her friends, she begins the sleuthing process.
I found this cozy mystery enjoyable and entertaining. The characters likeable. The story has touching moments, as well as humorous, with enough red herrings throughout to keep me guessing. The climax of the ending had me riveted. All in all, this was a very delightful cozy.
I would like to thank the author, NetGalley, and Crooked Lane Books for providing me an opportunity to review this book.
The Inn was doing well until, a famous, albeit, obnoxious and rude artist staying at the Inn, is found dead at the end of the stairs having died with one of Whitney’s Cherry Scones in her mouth. With Whitney as a prime suspect, she is determined to clear her name. Enlisting the help of her friends, she begins the sleuthing process.
I found this cozy mystery enjoyable and entertaining. The characters likeable. The story has touching moments, as well as humorous, with enough red herrings throughout to keep me guessing. The climax of the ending had me riveted. All in all, this was a very delightful cozy.
I would like to thank the author, NetGalley, and Crooked Lane Books for providing me an opportunity to review this book.
April 9, 2025
Whitney Bloom used to be an ad exec in Chicago, but has moved home to Michigan.
She is working to make her family Inn, The Cherry Orchard Inn successful.
The Inn features delicious baked goods and other items made from the cherry orchard on the property.
A famous artist is coming to the Inn for the summer and it is hoped she will bring much needed attention and customers with her.
However, the artist is the worst person to be around, demanding, selfish, mean, cheap and a diva.
She is wearing on everyone's nerves.
Just as everyone is pushed to their limit trying to please this woman a death occurs and now Whitney is the prime suspect. She will need a lot of persistence and all her skills to figure this one out and get off the hot seat!
She is working to make her family Inn, The Cherry Orchard Inn successful.
The Inn features delicious baked goods and other items made from the cherry orchard on the property.
A famous artist is coming to the Inn for the summer and it is hoped she will bring much needed attention and customers with her.
However, the artist is the worst person to be around, demanding, selfish, mean, cheap and a diva.
She is wearing on everyone's nerves.
Just as everyone is pushed to their limit trying to please this woman a death occurs and now Whitney is the prime suspect. She will need a lot of persistence and all her skills to figure this one out and get off the hot seat!
March 28, 2019
A nice cozy mystery, well written and entertaining.
I liked the cast of characters and the setting.
The mystery was solid and it kept me guessing till the end.
I look forward to reading other books in this series.
Recommended!
Many thanks to Midnight Ink and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I liked the cast of characters and the setting.
The mystery was solid and it kept me guessing till the end.
I look forward to reading other books in this series.
Recommended!
Many thanks to Midnight Ink and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
June 11, 2022
A cozy murder mystery that takes place in Door County, Wisconsin. This was just ok for me. Shallow characters (not all) and the protagonist, Whitney, daughter/granddaughter who just returned from Chicago to run the Cherry Orchard Inn, irritated me to no end!
3 stars because I love Cherry scones (the recipe is in the back) and for the location - my beloved Door County!
3 stars because I love Cherry scones (the recipe is in the back) and for the location - my beloved Door County!
July 30, 2025
Just…not good. Style of writing was weird, the language used was off, it’s supposed to be set in this time period, but random sentences are in old English? The book could’ve been cut by at least 300 pages to get to the point, so many unnecessary moments for a very boring anticlimactic ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2022
I love this series. The writing is fantastic and I really like the characters. The goats (2) are just an added plus.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
September 2, 2019
This would actually be 3 1/2 stars. A little cheesy but still a fun read.
June 30, 2021
A great second adventure in Cherry Cove, WI. I wish there were more books in this series!
May 24, 2019
[I received an electronic review copy of this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]
A fun second mystery in this Wisconsin series abounding with cherry goodness. I enjoy the quirky characters in this one and the setting is always a delight. The mystery was great and I enjoyed how Whitney investigated each suspect one at a time for the most part rather than swirling through all of them over and over, bit by bit. It felt like a fresh way to work through the mystery. And most of all I am happy to say the love triangle seems to be wrapped up. I rarely enjoy those in mysteries so I am glad this one seems to have run its course.
A fun second mystery in this Wisconsin series abounding with cherry goodness. I enjoy the quirky characters in this one and the setting is always a delight. The mystery was great and I enjoyed how Whitney investigated each suspect one at a time for the most part rather than swirling through all of them over and over, bit by bit. It felt like a fresh way to work through the mystery. And most of all I am happy to say the love triangle seems to be wrapped up. I rarely enjoy those in mysteries so I am glad this one seems to have run its course.
January 24, 2019
Title: Cherry Scones And Broken Bones
Author: Darci Hannah
Genre: Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Food, Bed and Breakfast, Murder Mystery, Romance, Sequel,
Plot: Whitney went from high powered and stressed out advertising executive to cherry baker and running her family bed and breakfast. All it took for this drastic change of pace was a painfully misplaced ad during the Super Bowl and murder. Now she's firmly settled into a nice baking routine and there are now guests in the b&b, thanks to her advertising skills and price slashing techniques.
To further boost their publicity, celebrated portrait artist Silvia Lumiere has booked a room for the whole summer. She comes every year to spend the summer painting and mingling with the locals who all adore her or simply tolerate her, depending on their personality. While Whitney has high hopes, these quickly evaporate under the never-ending stream of complaints and verbal abuse heaped on her by Silvia.
When Silvia turns up dead, no one is really too surprised. But Whitney must work to clear her name and save the reputation of her little bed and breakfast while she still can.
Likes/Dislikes: This is a sequel and reads like one in several places but can fully stand on its own just fine. I was able to meet all the characters, pick up on the backstory and enjoy this mystery without becoming confused or spoiling the first mystery (which is excellent because now I want to go read it!). The formatting was a bit off and several words were only half there so some translating was required but this will be fixed in editing before publishing, I'm sure of it. One minor annoying thing was that Jack's hair was described as ginger in the first half and then cinnamon in the second half; which color is it supposed to be? During another scene, everyone wades in waist deep water. It is only after doing this that a character decides he needs to completely strip before swimming back to the boat. Other than those little things, this was an excellent book and I look forward to more cherry delights!
Rating: PG-14 and up, mainly for content (lots of talk of sexual harassment from an older female character but nothing graphic)
Date Review Written: January 24th, 2019
I received a copy of this book courtesy of Netgalley for my honest opinion. I wasn't required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed in the above review are my own.
Author: Darci Hannah
Genre: Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Food, Bed and Breakfast, Murder Mystery, Romance, Sequel,
Plot: Whitney went from high powered and stressed out advertising executive to cherry baker and running her family bed and breakfast. All it took for this drastic change of pace was a painfully misplaced ad during the Super Bowl and murder. Now she's firmly settled into a nice baking routine and there are now guests in the b&b, thanks to her advertising skills and price slashing techniques.
To further boost their publicity, celebrated portrait artist Silvia Lumiere has booked a room for the whole summer. She comes every year to spend the summer painting and mingling with the locals who all adore her or simply tolerate her, depending on their personality. While Whitney has high hopes, these quickly evaporate under the never-ending stream of complaints and verbal abuse heaped on her by Silvia.
When Silvia turns up dead, no one is really too surprised. But Whitney must work to clear her name and save the reputation of her little bed and breakfast while she still can.
Likes/Dislikes: This is a sequel and reads like one in several places but can fully stand on its own just fine. I was able to meet all the characters, pick up on the backstory and enjoy this mystery without becoming confused or spoiling the first mystery (which is excellent because now I want to go read it!). The formatting was a bit off and several words were only half there so some translating was required but this will be fixed in editing before publishing, I'm sure of it. One minor annoying thing was that Jack's hair was described as ginger in the first half and then cinnamon in the second half; which color is it supposed to be? During another scene, everyone wades in waist deep water. It is only after doing this that a character decides he needs to completely strip before swimming back to the boat. Other than those little things, this was an excellent book and I look forward to more cherry delights!
Rating: PG-14 and up, mainly for content (lots of talk of sexual harassment from an older female character but nothing graphic)
Date Review Written: January 24th, 2019
I received a copy of this book courtesy of Netgalley for my honest opinion. I wasn't required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed in the above review are my own.
July 29, 2019
This is Book 2 of the Very Cherry Mystery series starring our cozy mystery heroine, Whitney Bloom. Whitney's starting a new life as the manager of her family's business, the Cherry Orchard Inn, and she owes a lot to painter Silvia Lumiere to get paying customers after the murder in Book 1. Problem is, Silvia's a real pain to her, so when the painter is found dead with cherry scones in her mouth, Whitney is the prime suspect for the murder.
This is a huge improvement from Book 1. I'm giving this a higher rating because of the plus points I've noted.
Whitney has definitely improved as a cozy mystery heroine. While there are some moments that made me sort of cringe, she has developed a sense of humor, and this also changed the tone of the book. She's impulsive, which lends to the humor and her getting herself in various shenanigans, to the detriment and amusement of the people around her. She influences the story, which I found to be move at a faster rate than the previous title. Because she's the prime suspect this time, and combined with her impulsive nature, she questions the other people on the suspect list and she goes everywhere looking for information that would unmask the real murderer and therefore clear her name. I also like that she's not this perfect character, because she comes off as irritating and pushy to other people, and that's better for me than having the entire town adore and like her. She's not doing so hot in the romance department, because she's chicken to say her true feelings, and thus appear in public like some two-timing hussy for stringing two men along.
The supporting cast is also growing on me because of their quirks. Jack has somewhat fallen out of my favor (for a little bit) because he has his moments of "perfection", but he stays strong on my list because he still is the geeky yet sensible police officer we all love. Whitney's friend Hannah is still annoying, but Tay is still doing fine in my book (maybe they could remove Hannah from the group because she's too much?). Giff is hilarious, and the hunky Tate and his housekeeper are surprisingly amusing.
As for the story itself, I thought I would get distracted, but no. As I've said before, there is a lot of action because there are a lot of things happening, mostly because of Whitney's investigations. The suspect list is strong, but there are some that should have not been included because of their somewhat flimsy motives. I hoped that the real murderer would be sympathetic enough, and the answer is yes, but only a little. (I have read about more sympathetic criminals in other series.) But the events leading to the big reveal is suspenseful; I cannot wait to go to the next page to learn who the real murderer is.
I want to know what would happen to Whitney and the Cherry Cove gang in future titles. I hope Book 3 gets even better.
*** I got a copy of this book from NetGalley. These are all my own opinions.
This is a huge improvement from Book 1. I'm giving this a higher rating because of the plus points I've noted.
Whitney has definitely improved as a cozy mystery heroine. While there are some moments that made me sort of cringe, she has developed a sense of humor, and this also changed the tone of the book. She's impulsive, which lends to the humor and her getting herself in various shenanigans, to the detriment and amusement of the people around her. She influences the story, which I found to be move at a faster rate than the previous title. Because she's the prime suspect this time, and combined with her impulsive nature, she questions the other people on the suspect list and she goes everywhere looking for information that would unmask the real murderer and therefore clear her name. I also like that she's not this perfect character, because she comes off as irritating and pushy to other people, and that's better for me than having the entire town adore and like her. She's not doing so hot in the romance department, because she's chicken to say her true feelings, and thus appear in public like some two-timing hussy for stringing two men along.
The supporting cast is also growing on me because of their quirks. Jack has somewhat fallen out of my favor (for a little bit) because he has his moments of "perfection", but he stays strong on my list because he still is the geeky yet sensible police officer we all love. Whitney's friend Hannah is still annoying, but Tay is still doing fine in my book (maybe they could remove Hannah from the group because she's too much?). Giff is hilarious, and the hunky Tate and his housekeeper are surprisingly amusing.
As for the story itself, I thought I would get distracted, but no. As I've said before, there is a lot of action because there are a lot of things happening, mostly because of Whitney's investigations. The suspect list is strong, but there are some that should have not been included because of their somewhat flimsy motives. I hoped that the real murderer would be sympathetic enough, and the answer is yes, but only a little. (I have read about more sympathetic criminals in other series.) But the events leading to the big reveal is suspenseful; I cannot wait to go to the next page to learn who the real murderer is.
I want to know what would happen to Whitney and the Cherry Cove gang in future titles. I hope Book 3 gets even better.
*** I got a copy of this book from NetGalley. These are all my own opinions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2022
Cherry Scones And Broken Bones is the second book in the Very Cherry Mystery Series by Darci Hannah
"Tainted by a recent murder, the Cherry Orchard Inn is struggling to attract guests . . . until celebrated portrait painter, Silvia Lumiere, books a room for the summer. Whitney Bloom, the inn's new manager, can't believe her good luck. Between her scrumptious cherry scones and the painter's remarkable talent, the inn swiftly becomes the center of the Cherry Cove art scene. However, all is not the bowl of cherries it appears. There's a rotten core in the portrait painter that only Whitney and her friends can see. And just as Whitney's baking skills and patience are pushed to their limits, another death occurs at the inn. With all fingers pointing at her, Whitney realizes it will take all her cherry-tastic talents to bake her way out of this one."
My thoughts:
Whitney and her friends are a fun bunch - though Tate can be a bit much. Her former coworker Giff is a hoot and a welcome addition to the mix as he tells it like it is with a bit of wit and charm. Jack is doing his best to solve the murder but his relationship with Whitney is still on shaky ground (awkward yet fun to see them try to work things out!)
The person that was murdered was well defined by one character who described them as a soul sucking vampire! SO many people could have done the deed but who had the motive? Well placed clues and misdirection may have had some readers wondering almost to the end but I had a hunch early on. There was just something about that character that made me pay a bit more attention to their movements and conversations. It was well done though and the lead up to the final reveal and take down will have many speed reading to see how it all unfolds!
Personally, I prefer sweet to tart cherries but the descriptions of the various cherry goods and other foods will have your mouth watering for some yummy sounding delights!
I really hope that Ms. Hannah decides to continue with this series. Charming setting, great food and an interesting mix of characters leave me wanting to keep coming back to Cherry Cove.
"Tainted by a recent murder, the Cherry Orchard Inn is struggling to attract guests . . . until celebrated portrait painter, Silvia Lumiere, books a room for the summer. Whitney Bloom, the inn's new manager, can't believe her good luck. Between her scrumptious cherry scones and the painter's remarkable talent, the inn swiftly becomes the center of the Cherry Cove art scene. However, all is not the bowl of cherries it appears. There's a rotten core in the portrait painter that only Whitney and her friends can see. And just as Whitney's baking skills and patience are pushed to their limits, another death occurs at the inn. With all fingers pointing at her, Whitney realizes it will take all her cherry-tastic talents to bake her way out of this one."
My thoughts:
Whitney and her friends are a fun bunch - though Tate can be a bit much. Her former coworker Giff is a hoot and a welcome addition to the mix as he tells it like it is with a bit of wit and charm. Jack is doing his best to solve the murder but his relationship with Whitney is still on shaky ground (awkward yet fun to see them try to work things out!)
The person that was murdered was well defined by one character who described them as a soul sucking vampire! SO many people could have done the deed but who had the motive? Well placed clues and misdirection may have had some readers wondering almost to the end but I had a hunch early on. There was just something about that character that made me pay a bit more attention to their movements and conversations. It was well done though and the lead up to the final reveal and take down will have many speed reading to see how it all unfolds!
Personally, I prefer sweet to tart cherries but the descriptions of the various cherry goods and other foods will have your mouth watering for some yummy sounding delights!
I really hope that Ms. Hannah decides to continue with this series. Charming setting, great food and an interesting mix of characters leave me wanting to keep coming back to Cherry Cove.
June 13, 2019
Cherry Scones and Broken Bones: A Very Cherry Mystery #2
By: Darci Hannah
Midnight Ink
General Fiction (Adult)
Mystery and Thrillers
Publish Date 8 June 2019
360 Pages
#CherrySconesBrokenBones
#NetGalley
I really enjoyed this book and I gave it 4 stars even though I was able to figure out who did it.
This book is about a lady who goes back home because of a mishap with her advertising job in Chicago. Home is in Wisconsin to an Inn that her parents own and run. She makes her living baking cherry items and helping her parents in the Inn. This is the second book in this cozy mystery series. That was back information that you get so you don't have to read this series in order if you don't want too. In this book there is yet another murder in the Inn of a famous painter. This painter is not a friendly a person and she went after everyone verbally. The main character is the main person of interest so she tries to find out who the killer is. I just love the setting of a small town where everyone knows everyone. Who killed the painter and can you blame them. There are a few people who could have done and they have their reason to have done but who actually did the deed. I highly recommend that you give this book a try.
By: Darci Hannah
Midnight Ink
General Fiction (Adult)
Mystery and Thrillers
Publish Date 8 June 2019
360 Pages
#CherrySconesBrokenBones
#NetGalley
I really enjoyed this book and I gave it 4 stars even though I was able to figure out who did it.
This book is about a lady who goes back home because of a mishap with her advertising job in Chicago. Home is in Wisconsin to an Inn that her parents own and run. She makes her living baking cherry items and helping her parents in the Inn. This is the second book in this cozy mystery series. That was back information that you get so you don't have to read this series in order if you don't want too. In this book there is yet another murder in the Inn of a famous painter. This painter is not a friendly a person and she went after everyone verbally. The main character is the main person of interest so she tries to find out who the killer is. I just love the setting of a small town where everyone knows everyone. Who killed the painter and can you blame them. There are a few people who could have done and they have their reason to have done but who actually did the deed. I highly recommend that you give this book a try.
May 29, 2019
Cherry Scones & Broken Bones by Darci Hannah is the 2nd book in A Very Cherry Mystery series. I have read the first in series and highly recommend the series. I enjoy the setting, the likable charcters and the sleuth is well crafted and kept me guessing.
Whitney Bloom has returned home to Door County, Wisconsin to help her parents run their Cherry Orchard Inn as Manager as well as overseeing the business of their cherry orchard. The Inn is having a hard time attracting guests as they recently experienced a murder in the inn. Whitney helped solve that murder but the reputation of the inn suffered. Then someone arrives that may change both their reputation and bring new business to the inn.
.Silvia Lumiere is a famous portrait painter who has decided to stay at the Inn for the summer season. Things are looking up for the inn and Whitney's family until another murder occurs. Whitney is on the case again and soon she has multiple suspects and clues that lead her to the right conclusion.
I enjoyed the sleuth that kept me guessing throughout and the well crafted plot. This is a fun cozy mystery series with enjoyable charcters and a beautiful constructed location that makes you feel present which is a tremendous talent this author has. . Cherry Pies & Deadly Lies is a fun read and I look forward to the next in series. . Highly recommended. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the ARC. My opinion is my own.
Whitney Bloom has returned home to Door County, Wisconsin to help her parents run their Cherry Orchard Inn as Manager as well as overseeing the business of their cherry orchard. The Inn is having a hard time attracting guests as they recently experienced a murder in the inn. Whitney helped solve that murder but the reputation of the inn suffered. Then someone arrives that may change both their reputation and bring new business to the inn.
.Silvia Lumiere is a famous portrait painter who has decided to stay at the Inn for the summer season. Things are looking up for the inn and Whitney's family until another murder occurs. Whitney is on the case again and soon she has multiple suspects and clues that lead her to the right conclusion.
I enjoyed the sleuth that kept me guessing throughout and the well crafted plot. This is a fun cozy mystery series with enjoyable charcters and a beautiful constructed location that makes you feel present which is a tremendous talent this author has. . Cherry Pies & Deadly Lies is a fun read and I look forward to the next in series. . Highly recommended. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the ARC. My opinion is my own.
June 5, 2019
I had to give this series a try, since it takes place in Wisconsin, and I am pleased that I did.
The way Darci Hannah describes this small town is spot on. I lived in a town similar to this one when I was growing up, and have visited many places like this in Wisconsin.
This is the second book in A Very Cherry Mystery series, but Hannah gives you enough back story, that you won’t be confused if you didn’t read the first one, Cherry Pies and Deadly Lies. And for a second book, her characters are very well developed. I would love to live in this fictional town, and be friends with most of the people Hannah has written about.
I was a bit concerned about the possible love triangle. After reading so many series that have had love triangles, I cringe when I see one coming on. There have been times I’ve stopped a series just because I couldn’t deal with the triangle any more. Hannah handled this one perfectly though. On that alone, I want to continue this series!
There were plenty of twists and turns, with misdirects thrown in. I didn’t see where this one was going until the killer was revealed. Which doesn’t happen too often any more with all the cozies that I read.
I highly recommend this book, and series, and am already looking forward to the next book in A Very Cherry Mystery series.
The way Darci Hannah describes this small town is spot on. I lived in a town similar to this one when I was growing up, and have visited many places like this in Wisconsin.
This is the second book in A Very Cherry Mystery series, but Hannah gives you enough back story, that you won’t be confused if you didn’t read the first one, Cherry Pies and Deadly Lies. And for a second book, her characters are very well developed. I would love to live in this fictional town, and be friends with most of the people Hannah has written about.
I was a bit concerned about the possible love triangle. After reading so many series that have had love triangles, I cringe when I see one coming on. There have been times I’ve stopped a series just because I couldn’t deal with the triangle any more. Hannah handled this one perfectly though. On that alone, I want to continue this series!
There were plenty of twists and turns, with misdirects thrown in. I didn’t see where this one was going until the killer was revealed. Which doesn’t happen too often any more with all the cozies that I read.
I highly recommend this book, and series, and am already looking forward to the next book in A Very Cherry Mystery series.
July 21, 2019
While I enjoyed the first book in this series - Cherry Pies and Deadly Lies - this entry shows improvement on some of the things I thought were a bit weak in the previous book. Whitney has settled into her new role managing her family's Cherry Orchard Inn. She had made a mess of her job at an ad agency and returned to the family business and I found her a bit off putting in the first book. Not so much any more. She is more likable now and now she finds herself to be prime suspect #1 when their big draw hotel guest, artist Sylvia Lumiere and all around nasty person, is found dead with one of Whitney's famous cherry scones in her mouth. Sylvia was not well liked and the list of suspects doesn't stop with Whitney. What to do? Start your own investigation, of course. Calling on friends and family to help her catch the killer, The Inn is, after all, a crime scene and that may just kill their business if the killer isn't caught fast.
Whitney has more growing to do and I'm looking forward to reading the next book to see not only a bit more maturity but more progress involving her romantic life. I enjoyed the conclusion but it could have done with more clues but that's just my opinion.
My thanks to the publisher Midnight Ink and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Whitney has more growing to do and I'm looking forward to reading the next book to see not only a bit more maturity but more progress involving her romantic life. I enjoyed the conclusion but it could have done with more clues but that's just my opinion.
My thanks to the publisher Midnight Ink and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
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