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Vintage Kitchen Mystery #7
No Grater Danger (Vintage Kitchen Mystery, #7)
In the brand-new Vintage Kitchen Mystery from the author of Leave It to Cleaver, someone out to spice up their life means to crush a helpless victim . . .
“Delightfully entertaining, well-written, and an interesting and exciting plot. Literally keeps you guessing right to the end.” —Goodreads on Leave It to Cleaver
Vintage cookware enthusiast Jaymie Leighton is thrilled at the prospect of meeting an elderly descendant of her town’s founding father, not least because she’s known to possess an enviably large collection of antique spice graters. But the curmudgeonly woman also has substantial real estate holdings, and at the moment she’s engaged in a fierce battle with a property developer who wants her to sell off her old buildings in the name of progress. When Jaymie goes to visit the woman and discovers that there’s been an attempt on her life, she polishes up her sleuthing skills to find out who was behind the foul deed.
Her first instinct is to suspect the developer, but as she digs deeper into the case she learns that her older new friend has purportedly been the victim of numerous criminal acts—all of which point to different suspects. Unsure if the stories are true or simply the confused ramblings of a senior citizen, Jaymie sifts through the clues hoping to expose the culprit, but she knows that if she keeps stirring up trouble, she’ll be next on the would-be killer’s list . . .
Includes a vintage recipe!
Praise for the Vintage Kitchen Mysteries:
“All the right ingredients . . . Small-town setting, kitchen antiques . . . and a bowlful of mystery. A perfect recipe.” —New York Times bestselling author Susan Wittig Albert
“[A] charming new series.” —New York Times bestselling author Sheila Connolly
“A chilling whodunit.” —Richmond Times-Dispatch
“Well-plotted with several unexpected twists and more developed characters.” —The Mystery Reader
“Jaymie is a great character . . . She is inquisitive and full of surprises!” —Debbie’s Book Bag
About the Author:
Victoria Hamilton is the pseudonym of nationally bestselling romance author Donna Lea Simpson. In addition to the Vintage Kitchen Mystery series, she also writes the Merry Muffin Mystery series and blogs at Killer Characters. Visit her website at victoriahamiltonmysteries.com.
“Delightfully entertaining, well-written, and an interesting and exciting plot. Literally keeps you guessing right to the end.” —Goodreads on Leave It to Cleaver
Vintage cookware enthusiast Jaymie Leighton is thrilled at the prospect of meeting an elderly descendant of her town’s founding father, not least because she’s known to possess an enviably large collection of antique spice graters. But the curmudgeonly woman also has substantial real estate holdings, and at the moment she’s engaged in a fierce battle with a property developer who wants her to sell off her old buildings in the name of progress. When Jaymie goes to visit the woman and discovers that there’s been an attempt on her life, she polishes up her sleuthing skills to find out who was behind the foul deed.
Her first instinct is to suspect the developer, but as she digs deeper into the case she learns that her older new friend has purportedly been the victim of numerous criminal acts—all of which point to different suspects. Unsure if the stories are true or simply the confused ramblings of a senior citizen, Jaymie sifts through the clues hoping to expose the culprit, but she knows that if she keeps stirring up trouble, she’ll be next on the would-be killer’s list . . .
Includes a vintage recipe!
Praise for the Vintage Kitchen Mysteries:
“All the right ingredients . . . Small-town setting, kitchen antiques . . . and a bowlful of mystery. A perfect recipe.” —New York Times bestselling author Susan Wittig Albert
“[A] charming new series.” —New York Times bestselling author Sheila Connolly
“A chilling whodunit.” —Richmond Times-Dispatch
“Well-plotted with several unexpected twists and more developed characters.” —The Mystery Reader
“Jaymie is a great character . . . She is inquisitive and full of surprises!” —Debbie’s Book Bag
About the Author:
Victoria Hamilton is the pseudonym of nationally bestselling romance author Donna Lea Simpson. In addition to the Vintage Kitchen Mystery series, she also writes the Merry Muffin Mystery series and blogs at Killer Characters. Visit her website at victoriahamiltonmysteries.com.
7 pages, Audiobook
First published June 13, 2018
140 people are currently reading
377 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Hamilton
43 books1,044 followersVictoria Hamilton is the bestselling author of several mystery series including the national bestselling Vintage Kitchen Mysteries and Merry Muffin Mysteries. She does, indeed, collect vintage kitchenware and bake muffins. She drinks tea and coffee on writing days, and wine other times. It doesn’t do to confuse days. A solitary being, she can be coaxed out of her writing cave for brownies and cat videos.
She started her writing life as Donna Lea Simpson, bestselling author of Regency Romances, paranormal historicals and historical mysteries, and still has a soft spot for the Regency period.
In fact her latest writing adventure is the new Regency-set historical mystery series - to be published by Midnight Ink - beginning in February 2019 with A Gentlewoman's Guide to Murder, featuring Miss Emmeline St. Germaine, a young lady who dares to defy society. She will fight for her right to live her own life, despite the dangers that presents. She has a dagger, and she's not afraid to use it.
If you Google ‘Victoria Hamilton’, you will find listed first a famous actress who starred as the Queen Mother in the Crown and as Charlotte Brontë in ‘In Search of the Brontës’. That’s not the Victoria who writes mysteries.
No, really, it’s not!
You can find her buried in a good book, (entombed in a good tome?) or online at:
Website: http://www.VictoriaHamiltonMysteries.com (Sign up for her annoyingly infrequent newsletter for all the latest!)
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorVictor...
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/MysteryVictoria
She started her writing life as Donna Lea Simpson, bestselling author of Regency Romances, paranormal historicals and historical mysteries, and still has a soft spot for the Regency period.
In fact her latest writing adventure is the new Regency-set historical mystery series - to be published by Midnight Ink - beginning in February 2019 with A Gentlewoman's Guide to Murder, featuring Miss Emmeline St. Germaine, a young lady who dares to defy society. She will fight for her right to live her own life, despite the dangers that presents. She has a dagger, and she's not afraid to use it.
If you Google ‘Victoria Hamilton’, you will find listed first a famous actress who starred as the Queen Mother in the Crown and as Charlotte Brontë in ‘In Search of the Brontës’. That’s not the Victoria who writes mysteries.
No, really, it’s not!
You can find her buried in a good book, (entombed in a good tome?) or online at:
Website: http://www.VictoriaHamiltonMysteries.com (Sign up for her annoyingly infrequent newsletter for all the latest!)
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorVictor...
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/MysteryVictoria
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
May 10, 2020
The Vintage Kitchen Mystery series by Victoria Hamilton is the kind that grows on you with each new edition. I'm now finished with the 7th book, No Grater Danger, and have one more left to be current with the available releases. It's one of my goals for this year's reading challenge - too not fall behind on series and authors I enjoy reading. Overall, I liked this book, and I found the mystery challenging and clever.
Jaymie is newly married to Jakob and learning to be a mother to her stepdaughter, Jocie. Jocie's experiencing a few issues at school with other kids and is pushing her boundaries, but Jaymie quickly figures out how to step in and be a good parent. Jakob is supportive of her plans, and they decide on plans for future businesses for their family. Meanwhile, Jaymie's checking out a collection of vintage graters. Between stolen goods, a few death attempts on an older woman Jaymie met once before, and a plot to turn somewhat unused waterfront property into bigger real estate investments, the bodies begin to turn up!
While this is a cozy mystery series, the murder doesn't happen until about 50% into the book; however, there are other mysteries beforehand leading up to it, so I wasn't concerned as the intrigue and suspense percolated from the beginning. In the end, the reasoning and clues all made sense. I guessed the killer but not right away, as it really could've legitimately been 3 people with valid reasons. Hamilton gives you lots to think about, and with the supporting cast and the subplots, you're always entertained.
I particularly enjoyed learning all about the vintage tools in this book. I could more easily picture them and their uses this time. I much prefer cozies with a theme I can connect to, and this is a series that lives up to the sub-genre. I'm looking forward to the latest one which came out late last year and is on my Kindle to start later this month.
Jaymie is newly married to Jakob and learning to be a mother to her stepdaughter, Jocie. Jocie's experiencing a few issues at school with other kids and is pushing her boundaries, but Jaymie quickly figures out how to step in and be a good parent. Jakob is supportive of her plans, and they decide on plans for future businesses for their family. Meanwhile, Jaymie's checking out a collection of vintage graters. Between stolen goods, a few death attempts on an older woman Jaymie met once before, and a plot to turn somewhat unused waterfront property into bigger real estate investments, the bodies begin to turn up!
While this is a cozy mystery series, the murder doesn't happen until about 50% into the book; however, there are other mysteries beforehand leading up to it, so I wasn't concerned as the intrigue and suspense percolated from the beginning. In the end, the reasoning and clues all made sense. I guessed the killer but not right away, as it really could've legitimately been 3 people with valid reasons. Hamilton gives you lots to think about, and with the supporting cast and the subplots, you're always entertained.
I particularly enjoyed learning all about the vintage tools in this book. I could more easily picture them and their uses this time. I much prefer cozies with a theme I can connect to, and this is a series that lives up to the sub-genre. I'm looking forward to the latest one which came out late last year and is on my Kindle to start later this month.
June 20, 2018
No Grater Danger by Victoria Hamilton is the seventh story in A Vintage Kitchen Mystery series. Jaymie Leighton Muller is enjoying her new life married to Jakob and taking care of her stepdaughter, Jocie. Sybil Thorndike, Jocie’s school principal, asks Jaymie to assist in a new program that involves teaching through objects. They want to use objects from the heritage house for an upcoming spice trade lesson. Mrs. Stubbs suggests Jaymie talk with her cousin, Lois Perry who owns a large collection of nutmeg graters along with other historical objects. Lois Perry is a reclusive woman who lives in the Nutmeg Palace and owns the waterfront property in town. Fergus Baird, a developer, has been badgering Lois to sell off the property. When Jaymie arrives for a meeting with Lois, she finds her at the bottom of the back stairs. Someone set it up for Lois to fall and this was not the first time an attempt has been made on her life. Jaymie sets out to find the person behind these dastardly deeds because the next attempt on Lois’ life could be successful.
No Grater Danger contains good writing, a steady pace and smooth transitions. There is a great cast of established characters and I like the addition of Lois Perry (feisty and intelligent woman). I have liked watching Jaymie grow over the course of the series, and I am glad that she has found the right partner for her in Jakob Muller. Queensville, Michigan is a lovely town with quaint shops and I appreciate how they want to preserve their history. There are beautiful descriptions of vintage items in the book including the Savoy by Buccellati Sterling Silver set, various nutmeg graters, and Pyrex. The mystery is well-crafted with a twist that will surprise you. There are red herrings and multiple suspects. Jaymie actively questions suspects and seeks clues to aid her investigation. Armchair sleuths will be able to discern the guilty parties’ identity early in the story. However, it did not hinder my enjoyment of the book. I wanted to keep reading to discover the why and spend more time in Queensville. There are many appealing cozy moments in the story with Jaymie and her new family (hubby and stepdaughter), time with friends, cooking and eating, shopping, and wonderful descriptions of vintage items. I am giving No Grater Danger 4 out of 5 stars. I could have done with less repetition of facts and speculation. I will be eagerly awaiting the next installment in A Vintage Kitchen Mystery series.
No Grater Danger contains good writing, a steady pace and smooth transitions. There is a great cast of established characters and I like the addition of Lois Perry (feisty and intelligent woman). I have liked watching Jaymie grow over the course of the series, and I am glad that she has found the right partner for her in Jakob Muller. Queensville, Michigan is a lovely town with quaint shops and I appreciate how they want to preserve their history. There are beautiful descriptions of vintage items in the book including the Savoy by Buccellati Sterling Silver set, various nutmeg graters, and Pyrex. The mystery is well-crafted with a twist that will surprise you. There are red herrings and multiple suspects. Jaymie actively questions suspects and seeks clues to aid her investigation. Armchair sleuths will be able to discern the guilty parties’ identity early in the story. However, it did not hinder my enjoyment of the book. I wanted to keep reading to discover the why and spend more time in Queensville. There are many appealing cozy moments in the story with Jaymie and her new family (hubby and stepdaughter), time with friends, cooking and eating, shopping, and wonderful descriptions of vintage items. I am giving No Grater Danger 4 out of 5 stars. I could have done with less repetition of facts and speculation. I will be eagerly awaiting the next installment in A Vintage Kitchen Mystery series.
June 15, 2018
Series: Vintage Kitchen Mystery #7
Publication Date: 6/19/18
This is yet another lovely addition to the Vintage Kitchen Mystery series. It is well written, flows smoothly and has a delightful cast of secondary characters. I guessed who the villain was fairly on in the book, but figuring out the what, why and how was still fun.
We’ve watched Jaymie Leighton grow and change through six books. She’s an entrepreneur with multiple jobs – she writes a newspaper column, she works at the emporium, she occasionally works in her sister’s antique shop and she re-creates vintage recipes for modern cooks. However, her favorite thing is collecting vintage cookware. Now, however, her most favorite thing is her new husband, Jakob Mueller, and her new step-daughter, Jocie.
One of Jaymie’s favorite places to be is Queensville’s heritage house. She has worked hard, along with the other members of the Queensville Heritage Society, to make the heritage house a wonderful representation of Queensville’s heritage. So, when Jaymie is presented with the opportunity to use the vintage kitchen area of the heritage house for trying a new teaching technique, she can’t wait to give it a try. The subject will be the spice trade and the trade routes used to get the spices around the world. Luckily, a local family has quite a historical link to the spice trade and Jaymie hopes to learn some of the history to share with the class – and maybe – she can borrow some of the antique nutmeg grinders owned by Miss Perry to display at the heritage house.
Miss Perry is a feisty, independent, crotchety octogenarian who doesn’t take well to strangers. Luckily, Jaymie’s friend, Mrs. Stubbs is her cousin and sets up an appointment for Jaymie to meet Miss Perry. Jaymie and Miss Perry like each other instantly and they strike a tentative deal for Miss Perry to loan the grinders to the historical society. However, when Jaymie comes to pick up the grinders, the door is unlocked, but nobody answers. Feeling apprehensive, Jaymie opens the door and calls out to Miss Perry – but nobody answers. Jaymie is worried for Miss Perry and enters and looks through the home until she finds Miss Perry – lying at the foot of the stairs.
Poor Jaymie seems to attract dead bodies – but, luckily, Miss Perry isn’t dead, but she is gravely injured. However, Jaymie fears for Miss Perry's life because there are some strange things happening around the lady. There have been thefts and other ‘accidents’ that could easily have taken her life. Jaymie’s insatiable curiosity is always engaged and she becomes more and more worried about her new friend. Then, a real dead body is found in Miss Perry’s backyard.
There are lots of twists and turns and red herrings scattered throughout the story. Whether you figure out the villain early on or not, the story is still a lovely read. Is there only one villain or several? Why in the world would they want to harm a lovely old lady? Well, you’ll just have to read the story to find out all the answers.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 6/19/18
This is yet another lovely addition to the Vintage Kitchen Mystery series. It is well written, flows smoothly and has a delightful cast of secondary characters. I guessed who the villain was fairly on in the book, but figuring out the what, why and how was still fun.
We’ve watched Jaymie Leighton grow and change through six books. She’s an entrepreneur with multiple jobs – she writes a newspaper column, she works at the emporium, she occasionally works in her sister’s antique shop and she re-creates vintage recipes for modern cooks. However, her favorite thing is collecting vintage cookware. Now, however, her most favorite thing is her new husband, Jakob Mueller, and her new step-daughter, Jocie.
One of Jaymie’s favorite places to be is Queensville’s heritage house. She has worked hard, along with the other members of the Queensville Heritage Society, to make the heritage house a wonderful representation of Queensville’s heritage. So, when Jaymie is presented with the opportunity to use the vintage kitchen area of the heritage house for trying a new teaching technique, she can’t wait to give it a try. The subject will be the spice trade and the trade routes used to get the spices around the world. Luckily, a local family has quite a historical link to the spice trade and Jaymie hopes to learn some of the history to share with the class – and maybe – she can borrow some of the antique nutmeg grinders owned by Miss Perry to display at the heritage house.
Miss Perry is a feisty, independent, crotchety octogenarian who doesn’t take well to strangers. Luckily, Jaymie’s friend, Mrs. Stubbs is her cousin and sets up an appointment for Jaymie to meet Miss Perry. Jaymie and Miss Perry like each other instantly and they strike a tentative deal for Miss Perry to loan the grinders to the historical society. However, when Jaymie comes to pick up the grinders, the door is unlocked, but nobody answers. Feeling apprehensive, Jaymie opens the door and calls out to Miss Perry – but nobody answers. Jaymie is worried for Miss Perry and enters and looks through the home until she finds Miss Perry – lying at the foot of the stairs.
Poor Jaymie seems to attract dead bodies – but, luckily, Miss Perry isn’t dead, but she is gravely injured. However, Jaymie fears for Miss Perry's life because there are some strange things happening around the lady. There have been thefts and other ‘accidents’ that could easily have taken her life. Jaymie’s insatiable curiosity is always engaged and she becomes more and more worried about her new friend. Then, a real dead body is found in Miss Perry’s backyard.
There are lots of twists and turns and red herrings scattered throughout the story. Whether you figure out the villain early on or not, the story is still a lovely read. Is there only one villain or several? Why in the world would they want to harm a lovely old lady? Well, you’ll just have to read the story to find out all the answers.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
June 19, 2018
This series has become my favorite. Jaymie is a good character, she's strong, determined and fiercely loyal.
Her new marriage and family makes the story even better.
This story was interesting and I enjoyed the mystery.
Her new marriage and family makes the story even better.
This story was interesting and I enjoyed the mystery.
October 9, 2018
This is a fabulous mystery! No Grater Danger is #7 in the Vintage Kitchen Mystery series and surpasses the rest! I love the setting, mostly in Michigan, across the St. Clair River from Canada. I like the continuity of characters; Jaymie and her new family are a delight. The mystery includes local history through various kitchen instruments specifically related to the spice trade to Queensville.
When they married, Jaymie and her husband Jakob chose to spend part of the year in Queensville in her family home, and part of the time out of town on a corner of his Christmas tree lot. They first met in his home in the log cabin Jakob had made by hand from a kit when she was escaping from a killer. He, Jaymie, and his daughter, Jocie, are a tight-knit family.
Sybil is the principal of Jocie’s school and Jaymie’s friend. A dedicated educator, Sybil talks with Jaymie about Learning through Objects, a concept not yet tried in history classes. Martha (Perry) Stubbs will work with the head of the Heritage committee for permission for Jocie’s class to go through Queensville Historic Manor, learning through artifacts in the House. Jaymie will visit Lois Perry, the elderly cousin of Martha and keeper of all historical items and papers related to the Perry family and their lead in the spice trade. Lois also owns much of the land at the docks, refusing to sell to a developer, who says the best thing that could happen would be for her to die so her niece would inherit everything…and sell it to get the town on its feet again.
Lois will loan various items to the Manor, including antique kitchen implements and spice graters. Her great niece, Morgan, is in her 30’s and helps Lois with anything she needs. Lois lives alone, even after a break-in resulting in the loss of an extensive silver set that was purchased (with provenance) at the antique store Jaymie’s sister and brother-in-law own. She is injured in her home by someone putting a trip wire on her stairs, and the body of the man who wanted to buy the Perry land is found dead on her property. Jaymie tries to find a way to help Lois.
Jocie is adorable, a scene stealer. Lois is fascinating, knowing the background of the family antiques, documents, and other memorabilia. I love how the characters who feel like old friends have grown and changed over time, particularly Jaymie, who is a happy wife and mother. All characters, including Lois and Morgan, are defined well for their roles.
This novel was hard to put down! An authentic touch of Michigan was one of my favorite places to visit near my hometown. Seeing mention of Bronner’s in Frankenmuth brings fond memories of a family member and I spending many hours going through Christmas decorations and crafts from around the world. Jaymie’s primary focus is Jakob and Jocie, and she still makes time for friends, whether old, such as Valetta and Martha, or new, such as Lois Perry. I would enjoy seeing Lois again; she is the source of much of the history. The mystery builds with tantalizing details, suspects, and red herrings. This reader was hard-pressed to figure out who really dunit. The end brings many delights and surprises, and I was very satisfied with the resolution and teasers of what we can look forward to with Jakob and Jaymie’s new ventures. I highly recommend No Grater Danger and this series!
From a grateful heart: I won a copy of this cozy mystery from the author through the Killer Characters blog and was not obligated to provide a review.
When they married, Jaymie and her husband Jakob chose to spend part of the year in Queensville in her family home, and part of the time out of town on a corner of his Christmas tree lot. They first met in his home in the log cabin Jakob had made by hand from a kit when she was escaping from a killer. He, Jaymie, and his daughter, Jocie, are a tight-knit family.
Sybil is the principal of Jocie’s school and Jaymie’s friend. A dedicated educator, Sybil talks with Jaymie about Learning through Objects, a concept not yet tried in history classes. Martha (Perry) Stubbs will work with the head of the Heritage committee for permission for Jocie’s class to go through Queensville Historic Manor, learning through artifacts in the House. Jaymie will visit Lois Perry, the elderly cousin of Martha and keeper of all historical items and papers related to the Perry family and their lead in the spice trade. Lois also owns much of the land at the docks, refusing to sell to a developer, who says the best thing that could happen would be for her to die so her niece would inherit everything…and sell it to get the town on its feet again.
Lois will loan various items to the Manor, including antique kitchen implements and spice graters. Her great niece, Morgan, is in her 30’s and helps Lois with anything she needs. Lois lives alone, even after a break-in resulting in the loss of an extensive silver set that was purchased (with provenance) at the antique store Jaymie’s sister and brother-in-law own. She is injured in her home by someone putting a trip wire on her stairs, and the body of the man who wanted to buy the Perry land is found dead on her property. Jaymie tries to find a way to help Lois.
Jocie is adorable, a scene stealer. Lois is fascinating, knowing the background of the family antiques, documents, and other memorabilia. I love how the characters who feel like old friends have grown and changed over time, particularly Jaymie, who is a happy wife and mother. All characters, including Lois and Morgan, are defined well for their roles.
This novel was hard to put down! An authentic touch of Michigan was one of my favorite places to visit near my hometown. Seeing mention of Bronner’s in Frankenmuth brings fond memories of a family member and I spending many hours going through Christmas decorations and crafts from around the world. Jaymie’s primary focus is Jakob and Jocie, and she still makes time for friends, whether old, such as Valetta and Martha, or new, such as Lois Perry. I would enjoy seeing Lois again; she is the source of much of the history. The mystery builds with tantalizing details, suspects, and red herrings. This reader was hard-pressed to figure out who really dunit. The end brings many delights and surprises, and I was very satisfied with the resolution and teasers of what we can look forward to with Jakob and Jaymie’s new ventures. I highly recommend No Grater Danger and this series!
From a grateful heart: I won a copy of this cozy mystery from the author through the Killer Characters blog and was not obligated to provide a review.
January 28, 2019
No Grater Danger by Victoria Hamilton is the seventh story in A Vintage Kitchen Mystery series. UI have only read the last two, so am confident in saying you can read these as standalone stories, but you might miss some character building. Jaymie Leighton Muller is enjoying her new life married to Jakob and taking care of her stepdaughter, Jocie. In this story she was thrilled, the first time Jocie called her mommy. Jaymie is volunteering at Jocie's school and is asked to assist in a new program that involves teaching through objects. Mrs. Stubbs, the school principal, suggests Jaymie talk with her cousin, Lois Perry who owns a large collection of spice graters along with other historical objects to do with the spice trade. Lois is a recluse who is being harrassed by Fergus Baird, a local developer to sell him her waterfront property. When Jaymie arrives for a meeting with Lois, she finds her at the bottom of the back stairs. Jaymie finds a wire across the stairs as well as the information that this is not the first time someone has tried to kill her. Jaymie sets out to find the person behind this because the next attempt on Lois’ life could be successful.
No Grater Danger is well written with a great pace and interesting storyline. Jaymie is a great main character and I love her family unit. She and Jakob are on the same wavelength and as busy as they are, they make time for family and each other. There are many wonderful moments in the story with family time as well as time with friends, cooking, eating, and shopping, Lois is a feisty, intelligent and stubborn woman who comes from a different time and has different values and beliefs. Queensville, Michigan is a lovely town with quaint shops and I appreciate how they want to preserve their history. I love the fact that they live on a Christmas tree farm. The writing is very descriptive describing items and events. The mystery is well-crafted with a twist that surprised me. There are red herrings and multiple suspects as well the murder of another character. Jaymie actively questions suspects and seeks clues to aid her investigation, with some of those questioned not being very forthcoming or happy about Jaymie's interference. Some reviewers figured out the culprit early in the story, I didn't, but I did figure it out before the reveal. I wanted to keep reading to discover the why as well as to see if Jaymie figures it out and/or puts herself in danger. I definitely recommend this to any cozy mystery lover, especially those who enjoy Victoria Hamilton books. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions stated are my own.
No Grater Danger is well written with a great pace and interesting storyline. Jaymie is a great main character and I love her family unit. She and Jakob are on the same wavelength and as busy as they are, they make time for family and each other. There are many wonderful moments in the story with family time as well as time with friends, cooking, eating, and shopping, Lois is a feisty, intelligent and stubborn woman who comes from a different time and has different values and beliefs. Queensville, Michigan is a lovely town with quaint shops and I appreciate how they want to preserve their history. I love the fact that they live on a Christmas tree farm. The writing is very descriptive describing items and events. The mystery is well-crafted with a twist that surprised me. There are red herrings and multiple suspects as well the murder of another character. Jaymie actively questions suspects and seeks clues to aid her investigation, with some of those questioned not being very forthcoming or happy about Jaymie's interference. Some reviewers figured out the culprit early in the story, I didn't, but I did figure it out before the reveal. I wanted to keep reading to discover the why as well as to see if Jaymie figures it out and/or puts herself in danger. I definitely recommend this to any cozy mystery lover, especially those who enjoy Victoria Hamilton books. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions stated are my own.
September 16, 2018
Ahh, Victoria Hamilton you have done it again! What a mystery you have created here. I have loved this series from the first book and though haven't always stayed in order, it is like returning to a favorite nook for a cup of tea. It will delight, entice and drive a reader to want to solve the murder. I think that this series keeps building to be better and better. I sorely wish it would become the next Hallmark mystery series. It would be such a book to see on TV.
October 16, 2018
I have read all the books in the Vintage Kitchen Mystery series. They are easy to read, and I like the recurring characters, especially Jamie and her new husband Jakob, and their daughter Jocie.
There is some predictability in the formula of these books, but then, I suppose that's part of what makes them cozies.
There is some predictability in the formula of these books, but then, I suppose that's part of what makes them cozies.
June 24, 2018
This is an excellent series. No Grater Danger is the 7th book in the Vintage Kitchen Mystery series and it may even be the best one yet. This series just keeps getting better and better.
April 6, 2024
I learned something new with this book. I have a fairly extensive knowledge of vintage kitchen utensils, but I'd never heard of a nutmeg grater. I always just use a microplane. The mystery kept me interested.
I didn't quite understand why spice trade routes would be part of elementary school curriculum. In my district, American History begins in 6th grade. World history isn't introduced until HS. Studying spice trade routes seems more like college level course work for history majors. If I were to try to work nutmeg graters into an elementary project, I think I would go more for the artistry than the history.
I didn't quite understand why spice trade routes would be part of elementary school curriculum. In my district, American History begins in 6th grade. World history isn't introduced until HS. Studying spice trade routes seems more like college level course work for history majors. If I were to try to work nutmeg graters into an elementary project, I think I would go more for the artistry than the history.
April 16, 2019
A fun story with good recipes
April 11, 2019
Her books really focus on the relationships of the people which helps keep the cozy in cozy mysteries.
July 22, 2018
Princess Fuzzypants here: Jaymie is settling down into wedded bliss and motherhood and loving every moment. She is such a busy woman with her family, friends, and community she is on the go constantly. As a member of of the Heritage Committee, she talks one of the doyennes of the community into lending some vintage grinders to teach children about the past. When Jaymie arrives to pick up the pieces a nutmeg grater is missing. That in itself is not overly alarming. The attacks upon the lady which leaves her in serious condition in the hospital and the body found in the garden of her home with said grater in his mouth certainly is.
Who is behind the attacks and the other thefts of valuables in town? Is it the local developer who wants waterfront property the lady is unwilling to sell? Is it the niece who will inherit everything upon the lady’s demise? Or is it someone else? Jaymie, in spite of her best intentions, gets involved and uncovers the villains but not before her life is in danger. I like that Jaymie does not seek out danger nor does she try to fly above the law. Trouble still finds her but that keeps up the suspense.
This is a charming series with great characters. It never hurts that the locales are close to home for me. It is fun to be able to visualize the familiar as well as be carried along by the story.
I give it four purrs and two paws up.
Who is behind the attacks and the other thefts of valuables in town? Is it the local developer who wants waterfront property the lady is unwilling to sell? Is it the niece who will inherit everything upon the lady’s demise? Or is it someone else? Jaymie, in spite of her best intentions, gets involved and uncovers the villains but not before her life is in danger. I like that Jaymie does not seek out danger nor does she try to fly above the law. Trouble still finds her but that keeps up the suspense.
This is a charming series with great characters. It never hurts that the locales are close to home for me. It is fun to be able to visualize the familiar as well as be carried along by the story.
I give it four purrs and two paws up.
February 3, 2019
Jaymie Leighton Muller is a busy chickee! There were times I was glad this was my bedtime reading as I was exhausted just reading everything she does.
That said, it all worked out. I get aggravated when the author forgets some key aspect of the main character's life like a pet or a child or food in the oven as said character runs around doing all that they do besides getting involved in the investigation that makes reason I am reading the amateur sleuth mystery.
Victoria Hamilton does not forget that Jaymie has a husband, a stepdaughter that has requirements and love, and the many jobs she has to get to. Jaymie has a fab to-do schedule in her cranium I reckon. If that was me.....phhhht...I have to write it all down and I am fairly certain that something would get forgotten. But it works out in this story and it doesn't irritate me. I call it a win.
The investigation was very well done and caught me by surprise in how it was portrayed. Pleasantly surprised. It kept me up later than normal for my night time reading as I neared what I thought was the end. I thought everything would wind up.....nope....it's a cool book to read with a nifty premise and mystery.
I also liked that the vintage kitchenware is mentioned but not dwelled upon. It enhanced rather than overwhelmed the story.
I can definitely recommend this book, series and author.
That said, it all worked out. I get aggravated when the author forgets some key aspect of the main character's life like a pet or a child or food in the oven as said character runs around doing all that they do besides getting involved in the investigation that makes reason I am reading the amateur sleuth mystery.
Victoria Hamilton does not forget that Jaymie has a husband, a stepdaughter that has requirements and love, and the many jobs she has to get to. Jaymie has a fab to-do schedule in her cranium I reckon. If that was me.....phhhht...I have to write it all down and I am fairly certain that something would get forgotten. But it works out in this story and it doesn't irritate me. I call it a win.
The investigation was very well done and caught me by surprise in how it was portrayed. Pleasantly surprised. It kept me up later than normal for my night time reading as I neared what I thought was the end. I thought everything would wind up.....nope....it's a cool book to read with a nifty premise and mystery.
I also liked that the vintage kitchenware is mentioned but not dwelled upon. It enhanced rather than overwhelmed the story.
I can definitely recommend this book, series and author.
June 28, 2018
Vintage cookware enthusiast Jaymie Leighton Muller has set up a meeting with Lois Perry, the elderly descendant of her town's founding father, to discuss her lending part of her collection of antique spice graters for a historical school project. The curmudgeonly Miss Perry also has substantial real estate holdings and is fighting off property developer Fergus Baird who wants her to sell off her old buildings so he can develop the waterfront property. When Jaymie goes to visit Miss Perry and finds her injured outside the house, she is determined to find out who was behind the murder attempt. Jaymie's main suspects include Baird, Miss Perry's niece Morgan who is the main heir, and bait shop owners Jon and Bev Hastings. Then Jaymie stumbles across Baird's strangled body on Miss Perry's property. The victim had an antique nutmeg grater stuffed in his mouth. Was someone trying to frame Miss Perry to the murder? Jaymie's nosy questions raise the hackles of the main suspects and it is a close call for her in the end.
This was a fun read and another strong entry in the Vintage Kitchen mystery series.
I received an eARC via Netgalley and Beyond the Page Publishing with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and provided this review.
This was a fun read and another strong entry in the Vintage Kitchen mystery series.
I received an eARC via Netgalley and Beyond the Page Publishing with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and provided this review.
June 24, 2018
Victoria Hamilton has created a community filled with warm, well-developed characters and comfortable relationships in her Vintage Kitchen Mystery series. In this adventure, Miss Lois Perry owns the dockside shops property and is being hassled by a developer to sell the property. While several attempts are made on her life, developer Fergus Baird is the one found dead on land at the back of Miss Perry’s home.
Jaymie Muller, best friend Valetta and Mrs. Stubbs are the amateur sleuths on the case. Miss Perry, recovering from the latest accident, is being cared for by her grand-niece Morgan and male nurse Skip, both of whom contribute clues to solving the mystery.
Ms. Hamilton combines mystery plotting with her characters’ everyday activities in a way draws the reader into the community. The mystery is well told with red herrings, twists and a few surprises. Dialogue is realistic, and the pace is steady. An engaging read.
Jaymie Muller, best friend Valetta and Mrs. Stubbs are the amateur sleuths on the case. Miss Perry, recovering from the latest accident, is being cared for by her grand-niece Morgan and male nurse Skip, both of whom contribute clues to solving the mystery.
Ms. Hamilton combines mystery plotting with her characters’ everyday activities in a way draws the reader into the community. The mystery is well told with red herrings, twists and a few surprises. Dialogue is realistic, and the pace is steady. An engaging read.
July 20, 2018
Wasn't exactly sure what to expect, as this is a new to me author. A very well written cozy mystery, that gave enough clues along the way that I was able to try to solve along with her. Jaymie is able to go out and about, and picks up clues here and there. When she meets with an elderly lady to discuss borrowing some of her ancient spice graters, she discovers the woman at the bottom of the stairs. Someone had strung a wire across the steps, and it turns out this was the 4th attempt on her life. The story has a nice Jane Marple feel to it, and the people on the island seem like a fun bunch. Upper Michigan is a beautiful place, and this shows that well. The only issue I had, and it was minor, was that the names of Jaymie and her husband and daughter were too similar, and to be honest a little strange. At times though, I got her and her daughter mixed up on who was who. Minor though, and still enjoyed the story and highly recommend this book and author.
July 19, 2018
This is the first of Victoria Hamilton's novels that I've read, so I didn't know what to expect. I would really give it a 3 1/2 star rating if I could.
The reader is immediately overwhelmed with a bombardment of characters's names and I had trouble figuring out who was who and if I needed to remember their names in case they popped up in the story. Maybe if I'd read some of the earlier books, I would have kept up with them better.
The author tells a good tale, but I really got involved in the last half of the book after the crime happened. Jaymie and her family and friends are likable and the resolution is satisfying without a lot of unnecessary fights or drama.
This was an fairly enjoyable book and I actually decided I look forward to more in the series! Would be a good beach/swimming pool Mom book.
The reader is immediately overwhelmed with a bombardment of characters's names and I had trouble figuring out who was who and if I needed to remember their names in case they popped up in the story. Maybe if I'd read some of the earlier books, I would have kept up with them better.
The author tells a good tale, but I really got involved in the last half of the book after the crime happened. Jaymie and her family and friends are likable and the resolution is satisfying without a lot of unnecessary fights or drama.
This was an fairly enjoyable book and I actually decided I look forward to more in the series! Would be a good beach/swimming pool Mom book.
November 6, 2018
This is book 7 in the Vintage Kitchen series and can be read as a stand alone. This is a good cozy series, the mystery is solvable and the characters are fun to be with. Jaymie is excited to meet an elderly woman who has a vintage collection of spice graters. She discover that Lois is being threatened and someone is trying to kill her or frame her for murder. One of her grater's is a murder weapon. Between the real estate developer tho wants her land to the town folk that want some economical development there is a long list of suspects. Set in Upper Michigan the small town is an interesting place I'd like to visit. You'll want to catch up with some additional background from the previous books if you liked this one. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
June 16, 2018
I adore this series. Every year I eagerly await the next book. I like the characters, the description of vintage kitchen gadgets, and most of the all the warmth of the small town community.
Sleuth Jaymie is newly married and busy with her endeavors. She stumbles upon a plot to eliminate a local elderly woman who is allegedly the barricade to progress and refuses to sell property and allow commercial development. Jaymie manages to figure out key pieces and also narrowly avoid real trouble herself with the mayhem and murder that is afoot. . My favorite character is Mrs. Stubbs who takes decisive action and is no fool. The only bad part about finishing this book is the long wait until the next one arrives. Thanks to NetGalley for the advance read.
Sleuth Jaymie is newly married and busy with her endeavors. She stumbles upon a plot to eliminate a local elderly woman who is allegedly the barricade to progress and refuses to sell property and allow commercial development. Jaymie manages to figure out key pieces and also narrowly avoid real trouble herself with the mayhem and murder that is afoot. . My favorite character is Mrs. Stubbs who takes decisive action and is no fool. The only bad part about finishing this book is the long wait until the next one arrives. Thanks to NetGalley for the advance read.
June 27, 2018
This was a nice cozy. It was interesting to learn about spice graters. The mystery took a while to develop, but once it did, the story grabbed my attention. The victim and murderer took me by surprise. The writing style is easy to read and the characters are likeable. The story was a slow starter for me and therefore did not keep my interest. I had to get 1/3 to 1/2 way through the story before it kept me interested. Lots of characters and I often had to stop and figure out who was who. Also I had a hard time determining if this story took place in Canada or the US. The author does mention Michigan, but there is a lot of talk of Canada with the UK thrown in. Not my favorite, but still a nice read.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for my review.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for my review.
August 2, 2018
We pick up after the wedding by a few months and things are settling down in so far as they ever do with so many jobs and priorities to get straight. Joice's principal asks for help with a learning through objects project and suggests spices. Turns out Mrs. Stubbs has a cousin that is the keeper of the family history and the family made their fortune importing spices. Ms. Perry is as irascible as her cousin. Shortly after meeting, the woman is found at the bottom of the steps, but it was no accident a wire was attached to the stairs for just this reason. She was also recently robbed of expensive silver which of course ends up at her sister's store. SOmeone wants to buy her property too. Lots of motives but not much clues. Love these characters and the extra dose of Mrs Stubbs too.
August 27, 2018
Having newly married Jakob and was in the process of forming a bonding relationship with her new stepdaughter Jocie, Jaymie realized it was a work in progress and she didn’t want to ruin that opportunity. But with someone trying to harm and now kill elderly Mrs. Perry the self-appointed matriarch of the town, Jaymie sleuthing mode was activated, When she literally found a body on Mrs, Perry property she couldn’t help but investigate, her curiosity peaked, and her love for solving mysteries couldn’t be denied, she could only pray it doesn’t derail her newly formed relationship with her loved ones. Intriguing and captivating, this book makes a wonderful intriguing cozy read, it truly should make your must-read list.
June 26, 2018
Jaymie is settling in happily to married life to Jakob and his daughter Jodie. Jaymie is asked by Jocie’s principal to do a presentation on the spice trade and use antique nutmeg graters to involve the children in the lesson. Jaymie contacts an elderly neighbor who is a descendant of a family prominent in the spice trade and has a large collection of the antique graters. When Jaymie finds the old lady after a bad fall down some stairs, and then odd events begin piling up, she starts asking questions. A true cozy mystery, with loving family and respect for heritage, this is a great addition to the Vintage Kitchen Mysteries.
July 9, 2018
This is the seventh book in the Vintage Kitchen series and I do enjoy this series. Jayme and Jakob are settling into married life and Jayme is about to embark on a new teaching gig and the Queensville Heritage House. She needs the help of her friend Mrs. Stubbs to put in the good word with Mrs. Perry to use her antique graters. Jayme and Mrs. Perry hit it off and unfortunately when Jayme goes to pick up the graters she finds Mrs. Perry hurt at the bottom of her stairs. She is still alive but another dead body pops up. Jayme is once again sleuthing to find out what is going on. An enjoyable read and great addition to this series. Waiting for the next one!
July 23, 2018
No Grater Danger by Victoria Hamilton is the seventh book in A Vintage Kitchen Mystery series and the first that I've read.
Our main character, Jaymie has recently married and has a special needs step-daughter. I liked the way that character is incorporated and that family life appears to be accurately portrayed. This story has the sleuth considering how her actions will impact on her family. Jaymie is adjusting to the we versus me syndrome many married couples go through.
The story is well crafted, well-written, and plausible. Give this a try if you haven’t read any in the series.
Our main character, Jaymie has recently married and has a special needs step-daughter. I liked the way that character is incorporated and that family life appears to be accurately portrayed. This story has the sleuth considering how her actions will impact on her family. Jaymie is adjusting to the we versus me syndrome many married couples go through.
The story is well crafted, well-written, and plausible. Give this a try if you haven’t read any in the series.
June 25, 2018
It is fun to revisit all the characters in this series. It is also nice to see Jaymie Leighton Muller enjoying her new life married to Jakob and taking care of her stepdaughter, Well crafted mystery with twist that will surprise. I think one of my very favorite things about this series is the descriptive writing style of the author and all of her descriptions of vintage kitchen items. I never tire of this series and look forward to each book coming out
July 25, 2018
New Beginnings
Ms. Hamilton totally outdid herself in this one! Jaymie is finally settling into her marriage and motherhood when she finds herself wrapped up in a new mystery. Who is trying to kill poor Miss Perry? This one actually was a surprise. Another well written Vintage Kitchen mystery. Can't get enough of these.
Ms. Hamilton totally outdid herself in this one! Jaymie is finally settling into her marriage and motherhood when she finds herself wrapped up in a new mystery. Who is trying to kill poor Miss Perry? This one actually was a surprise. Another well written Vintage Kitchen mystery. Can't get enough of these.
September 23, 2018
This is my favorite book in the series. Jaymie is settling into married life and being a wife and mother. She, of course, gets caught up in investigating a murder and attempted murder. I love the relationship Jaymie has with her husband and daughter. They are truly a heartwarming family. I look forward to seeing what's next for Jaymie, Jakob, and Jocie and third friends!
June 21, 2018
No Grater Danger is a good book in a good series. Jaymie is fiercely loyal to her family and friends. I love the descriptions of the vintage gadgets. The book flowed and I didn't know who the culprit was until it was revealed. Victoria Hamilton writes stories that keep me engrossed.
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