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Literary Pub Mystery #1
Wine and Punishment
Book-lover Sadie Coleman knows that in life, as in fiction, the right setting can make a world of difference. The small town of Shady Creek, Vermont, seems like the perfect place to start over after losing her Boston job to a merger and her relationship to her ex's gambling addiction. She's bought and redecorated the old grist mill pub, transforming the Inkwell into a cozy spot where tourists and regulars alike can enjoy a pint or a literary-themed cocktail, or join one of several book clubs.
Little by little, Sadie is adjusting to the rhythms of her new home. Fall in Shady Creek is bookmarked by the much-anticipated Autumn Festival, complete with a pumpkin catapult competition and pie bake-off. Unfortunately, the season also brings an unwelcome visitor - Sadie's ex, Eric, who's angling for a second chance . . .
Before Sadie can ell Eric to leave, he's found dead near the Inkwell. When the local antique shop catches fire on the same night, it's clear the town is harboring at least one unsavory character. Now, with her Aunt Gilda, her friend Shontelle, and the pub's patrons all in the mix, Sadie must uncover the truth . . . before a killer declares last call.
Little by little, Sadie is adjusting to the rhythms of her new home. Fall in Shady Creek is bookmarked by the much-anticipated Autumn Festival, complete with a pumpkin catapult competition and pie bake-off. Unfortunately, the season also brings an unwelcome visitor - Sadie's ex, Eric, who's angling for a second chance . . .
Before Sadie can ell Eric to leave, he's found dead near the Inkwell. When the local antique shop catches fire on the same night, it's clear the town is harboring at least one unsavory character. Now, with her Aunt Gilda, her friend Shontelle, and the pub's patrons all in the mix, Sadie must uncover the truth . . . before a killer declares last call.
359 pages, Hardcover
First published December 18, 2018
226 people are currently reading
2625 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Fox
23 books735 followersSarah Fox, writer of cozy mysteries, was born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia, where she developed a love for mysteries at a young age. When not writing novels or working as a legal writer she is often reading her way through a stack of books or spending time outdoors with her English Springer Spaniel.
Sarah is the author of the Literary Pub Mysteries, the Pancake House Mysteries, and the Music Lover's Mysteries.
Sarah is the author of the Literary Pub Mysteries, the Pancake House Mysteries, and the Music Lover's Mysteries.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 298 reviews
December 13, 2018
Wine and Punishment by Sarah Fox is the first book in the new cozy Literary Pub Mystery series. The setting for this series is just as it may sound, a Literary Pub owned by booklover Sadie Coleman who has opened the Inkwell in an attempt to restart her life in a new town.
Sadie had lost her job due to a business merger and she had become fed up with dealing with her ex’s gambling addiction so she chose to move to Shady Creek, Vermont for a fresh start. Sadie’s bookish side put a spin on the Inkwell in which she serves up themed cocktails and hosts many book club events in her literary themed rooms.
Enjoying her new life the last person Sadie wanted to walk in was her ex, Eric, so when she sees he’s shown up in her new town she dodges a confrontation heading out to her original plans for the night. However, when Eric’s body is found shortly after Sadie wishes she had taken the time to hear him out and find out just what brought him to her new town.
Wine and Punishment was a solid start to this new series. The author did a nice job setting up a mystery upon mystery to solve and keep a reader on their toes guessing with plenty of suspects. I did find myself wishing I had developed a stronger connection to the characters in this opener, perhaps it’s due to reading so many cozies or that they truly did need more depth to them but so far no one was really standing out and making me fall in love with the charming town just yet but I would be interested to see what happens in book two.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Sadie had lost her job due to a business merger and she had become fed up with dealing with her ex’s gambling addiction so she chose to move to Shady Creek, Vermont for a fresh start. Sadie’s bookish side put a spin on the Inkwell in which she serves up themed cocktails and hosts many book club events in her literary themed rooms.
Enjoying her new life the last person Sadie wanted to walk in was her ex, Eric, so when she sees he’s shown up in her new town she dodges a confrontation heading out to her original plans for the night. However, when Eric’s body is found shortly after Sadie wishes she had taken the time to hear him out and find out just what brought him to her new town.
Wine and Punishment was a solid start to this new series. The author did a nice job setting up a mystery upon mystery to solve and keep a reader on their toes guessing with plenty of suspects. I did find myself wishing I had developed a stronger connection to the characters in this opener, perhaps it’s due to reading so many cozies or that they truly did need more depth to them but so far no one was really standing out and making me fall in love with the charming town just yet but I would be interested to see what happens in book two.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
March 2, 2021
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November 8, 2018
Wine and Punishment is the first book in a proposed new cozy series from author Sarah Fox. In this series, Sadie Coleman is picking up the pieces from a job loss and a broken relationship by buying a pub located in an old mill in a small town in Vermont. Her aunt has a hair salon there, which is Sadie’s connection to the town.
In this first book, Sadie’s ability to settle happily into her new life is almost immediately interrupted by a series of unsettling circumstances along with a couple of murders. The troubling events start with Sadie finding all four tires of her car slashed when she goes out early one morning to do some running around. Almost immediately she encounters the dead body of her former boyfriend. Are the two events related? Is Sadie being targeted? What has she done to deserve this?
As Sadie becomes a suspect in her ex’s murder, she decides she must solve the question of who killed him. Along the way the reader is introduced to Sadie’s aunt, who represents a strong support system along with the hunky, single guy for whom Sadie denies her growing attraction.
Add to the mix a couple of employees for Sadie, Mel and Damien, who may develop stronger personalities and voices of their own in future books, a picturesque Vermont town in fall with leaves turning and a charming fall festival that serves to draw in tourists and please both them and the townspeople. All these combine to give weight to the book, although they seem to be more trope-like in terms of what you typically find in a cozy mystery book than actual characters who serve a strong purpose in furthering the story.
Because this is the first in a proposed series, these characters may develop stronger voices of their own as the series continues and they are written in more depth. It will be entertaining to have more of the town of Shady Grove described as the series moves forward. Hopefully, the reader will get a greater opportunity to see as well as experience the charms of a small new-england village.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing me an advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I look forward to the next book in the series to learn more of Sadie’s adventures as well as having the opportunity to delve further into the personalities of the secondary characters.
In this first book, Sadie’s ability to settle happily into her new life is almost immediately interrupted by a series of unsettling circumstances along with a couple of murders. The troubling events start with Sadie finding all four tires of her car slashed when she goes out early one morning to do some running around. Almost immediately she encounters the dead body of her former boyfriend. Are the two events related? Is Sadie being targeted? What has she done to deserve this?
As Sadie becomes a suspect in her ex’s murder, she decides she must solve the question of who killed him. Along the way the reader is introduced to Sadie’s aunt, who represents a strong support system along with the hunky, single guy for whom Sadie denies her growing attraction.
Add to the mix a couple of employees for Sadie, Mel and Damien, who may develop stronger personalities and voices of their own in future books, a picturesque Vermont town in fall with leaves turning and a charming fall festival that serves to draw in tourists and please both them and the townspeople. All these combine to give weight to the book, although they seem to be more trope-like in terms of what you typically find in a cozy mystery book than actual characters who serve a strong purpose in furthering the story.
Because this is the first in a proposed series, these characters may develop stronger voices of their own as the series continues and they are written in more depth. It will be entertaining to have more of the town of Shady Grove described as the series moves forward. Hopefully, the reader will get a greater opportunity to see as well as experience the charms of a small new-england village.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing me an advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I look forward to the next book in the series to learn more of Sadie’s adventures as well as having the opportunity to delve further into the personalities of the secondary characters.
January 27, 2019
Dollycas’s Thoughts
It’s Autumn in Shady Creek, Vermont and Sadie Coleman is excited to take part in the yearly festival. You see, she is new in town and has turned the old grist mill pub into a book lover’s delight. The Inkwell is the perfect place to relax with friends or hold your book club meeting. Sadie pushed out by a merger in her old job and moving on after breaking up with her gambling lying ex is ready to make herself at home in this wonderful little town. Her literary-themed cocktails have been well received and she is anxious to feature them in her booth at the festival.
Happily shelving her past she has made herself at home. Then she is shocked to learn Eric, he ex, is in town. She avoids him the first night and goes to a birthday party for her Aunt Gilda. On the way home, she is diverted by a huge fire at the local antique shop. She almost forgets about Eric being in town. But before they can meet he is found dead in a culvert near the pub. Is his death connected to the fire? What would he come all this way to see her now? With more questions than answers, she decides to keep her ears open and her eyes peeled in hopes of catching the killer and throwing the book at them.
I absolutely love the setting of this book. A pub full of books in Vermont. The pub is unique, its little footbridge charming and Shady Creek sounds absolutely delightful. Sans the fire and the murder, of course.
I really like Sadie. She has a great vision and the determination to see it through. She is surrounded by a great cast. Her Aunt Gilda is totally supportive and willing to help Sadie in any way she can. The same with her friend Shontelle. Her two employees, Damien and Melanie, are familiar with the area and the festival and want Sadie to succeed. Then there is Grayson Blake, owner of the Spirit Hill Brewery. He and Sadie get off to a very rocky start. Everyone thinks he is a wonderful man, Sadie just doesn’t see it. In fact, she believes he is responsible for some dastardly deeds like slashing her tires and egging the pub. Sadie also has a frisky feline named Wimsey. I feel Ms. Fox has barely opened the books on these characters. She has left them plenty of room to grow.
I enjoyed the way the author penned this mystery. Twists galore. I loved that the lead detective was a woman and that while she questioned Sadie thoroughly, she didn’t zero in on Sadie as her main suspect. I will say the killer was so far off my radar they were never even considered. BAM, I was right there with Sadie, completely surprised and scared for our new protagonist. Great job, Sarah Fox!
This series is off to an excellent start. I want to get to know these characters better and I definitely want to spend more time at the book filled Inkwell pub. I know there is a mystery book club starting there soon and I can’t wait to see if that plays into this author’s next mystery.
It’s Autumn in Shady Creek, Vermont and Sadie Coleman is excited to take part in the yearly festival. You see, she is new in town and has turned the old grist mill pub into a book lover’s delight. The Inkwell is the perfect place to relax with friends or hold your book club meeting. Sadie pushed out by a merger in her old job and moving on after breaking up with her gambling lying ex is ready to make herself at home in this wonderful little town. Her literary-themed cocktails have been well received and she is anxious to feature them in her booth at the festival.
Happily shelving her past she has made herself at home. Then she is shocked to learn Eric, he ex, is in town. She avoids him the first night and goes to a birthday party for her Aunt Gilda. On the way home, she is diverted by a huge fire at the local antique shop. She almost forgets about Eric being in town. But before they can meet he is found dead in a culvert near the pub. Is his death connected to the fire? What would he come all this way to see her now? With more questions than answers, she decides to keep her ears open and her eyes peeled in hopes of catching the killer and throwing the book at them.
I absolutely love the setting of this book. A pub full of books in Vermont. The pub is unique, its little footbridge charming and Shady Creek sounds absolutely delightful. Sans the fire and the murder, of course.
I really like Sadie. She has a great vision and the determination to see it through. She is surrounded by a great cast. Her Aunt Gilda is totally supportive and willing to help Sadie in any way she can. The same with her friend Shontelle. Her two employees, Damien and Melanie, are familiar with the area and the festival and want Sadie to succeed. Then there is Grayson Blake, owner of the Spirit Hill Brewery. He and Sadie get off to a very rocky start. Everyone thinks he is a wonderful man, Sadie just doesn’t see it. In fact, she believes he is responsible for some dastardly deeds like slashing her tires and egging the pub. Sadie also has a frisky feline named Wimsey. I feel Ms. Fox has barely opened the books on these characters. She has left them plenty of room to grow.
I enjoyed the way the author penned this mystery. Twists galore. I loved that the lead detective was a woman and that while she questioned Sadie thoroughly, she didn’t zero in on Sadie as her main suspect. I will say the killer was so far off my radar they were never even considered. BAM, I was right there with Sadie, completely surprised and scared for our new protagonist. Great job, Sarah Fox!
This series is off to an excellent start. I want to get to know these characters better and I definitely want to spend more time at the book filled Inkwell pub. I know there is a mystery book club starting there soon and I can’t wait to see if that plays into this author’s next mystery.
November 18, 2018
I am a fan of this author's Pancake House Mystery so when I read that she had a new series coming out centered around a pub with a literary theme I was intrigued. I thought this was a solid start to a new series. I enjoyed stepping into the the world of the Inkwell, which is a great name for the pub, and getting to know Sadie Coleman, and the rest of the characters. I think that as the series progresses and the characters are developed more that readers will take to them. I just felt that in this first book we didn't really get to know some of the more prominent secondary characters enough. They mystery was well done, but a little drawn out for me. I didn't guess the identity of the killer but thought it could have been wrapped up a bit quicker. There was a part in the middle of the book, when incidents just kept happening to Sadie that I thought the book dragged for me.
Overall, I liked this first book and think with some more character development and shortened mysteries that series has really good promise to stick around for awhile. I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher, Lyrical Underground, through Netgalley.
Overall, I liked this first book and think with some more character development and shortened mysteries that series has really good promise to stick around for awhile. I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher, Lyrical Underground, through Netgalley.
March 30, 2020
I picked this up in hopes that it would distract me enough from current events and provide an engaging story to make me continue with the series. I'm happy to report both happened. Sadie Coleman is our pub-owner sleuth who also loves all things books. She's embarked on a new business, in a new town and is joining in on community events when her ex-boyfriend turns up in town and is promptly murdered. It's a problem and she'll need to solve it because beyond being thought a suspect, it may be that someone's trying to get rid of her next. Obviously, she survives because there's a sequel but there is a good bit of cold calculation and peril.
I enjoyed all the secondary characters for their potential as it was a first in a series, most of them felt like sketches but they were good sketches and look good to build on in the subsequent books. I'm not entirely sold on the obvious love interest but he didn't put me off so that's to the good. What there really needs to be more of is Wimsey the cat. The setting was well done and definitely made me feel like I'd stepped into autumn even though I was experiencing a couple of warm spring days while I read. I enjoyed very much the novel names for the specialty drinks at the pub and their descriptions. I always hope for recipes in the back of these books and I was happy to find some here. Honestly, the drinks recipes were nice but the carrot muffin recipe that Sadie loves from town coffee house, the Village Bean was what I really smiled about & I look forward to making those. Also, as a final highlight, I very much enjoyed the way the pumpkin catapult contest ended. It made me smile.
So, I'd recommend this for anyone looking to begin a new cozy series (I didn't really need to begin another, I need to finish some of those I've already begun but... you can have better discipline than I do). I'll definitely read the next in the series as I've already bought it so likely soon.
I enjoyed all the secondary characters for their potential as it was a first in a series, most of them felt like sketches but they were good sketches and look good to build on in the subsequent books. I'm not entirely sold on the obvious love interest but he didn't put me off so that's to the good. What there really needs to be more of is Wimsey the cat. The setting was well done and definitely made me feel like I'd stepped into autumn even though I was experiencing a couple of warm spring days while I read. I enjoyed very much the novel names for the specialty drinks at the pub and their descriptions. I always hope for recipes in the back of these books and I was happy to find some here. Honestly, the drinks recipes were nice but the carrot muffin recipe that Sadie loves from town coffee house, the Village Bean was what I really smiled about & I look forward to making those. Also, as a final highlight, I very much enjoyed the way the pumpkin catapult contest ended. It made me smile.
So, I'd recommend this for anyone looking to begin a new cozy series (I didn't really need to begin another, I need to finish some of those I've already begun but... you can have better discipline than I do). I'll definitely read the next in the series as I've already bought it so likely soon.
November 6, 2018
Wine and Punishment by Sarah Fox is the first in a new cozy mystery series and has one of the most unique settings of any that I have read this year. Sadie Coleman has moved to Shady Creek, Vermont and opened the Inkwell, a literary pub.
I found this book to be charming and completely captivating. I liked Sadie from the beginning and was so proud of her as she faced some extremely tough situations in her new home - her new pub/home and car are vandalized, an arsonist has struck at the local antiques store, she's butting heads with the local brewery owner and her ex-boyfriend is murdered when he surprises her with an unannounced visit. I appreciated the fact that police did not immediately zero in on Sadie as the prime suspect for the murder which is definitely a change from most cozy mysteries. Sadie's Aunt Gilda and her best friend, Shontelle, were great supporting characters. I look forward to getting to know all of them better as this series progresses. The plot moved swiftly with plenty of twists and red herrings. Although there were few suspects, the twists kept me turning the pages until the end. I was gripping my chair during the reveal as Sadie was in a lot of danger. The reveal was startling and I never even came close to guessing who was behind the arson, murder and vandalization. I am really looking forward to the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
I found this book to be charming and completely captivating. I liked Sadie from the beginning and was so proud of her as she faced some extremely tough situations in her new home - her new pub/home and car are vandalized, an arsonist has struck at the local antiques store, she's butting heads with the local brewery owner and her ex-boyfriend is murdered when he surprises her with an unannounced visit. I appreciated the fact that police did not immediately zero in on Sadie as the prime suspect for the murder which is definitely a change from most cozy mysteries. Sadie's Aunt Gilda and her best friend, Shontelle, were great supporting characters. I look forward to getting to know all of them better as this series progresses. The plot moved swiftly with plenty of twists and red herrings. Although there were few suspects, the twists kept me turning the pages until the end. I was gripping my chair during the reveal as Sadie was in a lot of danger. The reveal was startling and I never even came close to guessing who was behind the arson, murder and vandalization. I am really looking forward to the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
February 26, 2020
A great debut! Fun with originality! I highly recommend!
December 18, 2018
This was seriously so good I could barely put it down. I did manage to squeeze in the time to read it all in one day. I really loved this first in a new series, and I'm already anxious to read the next book.
Sadie Coleman had moved to Shady Creek, VT after losing her job leaving a lying, dishonest ex-boyfriend behind. Eric was apparently so determined to win her back that he'd bought a ring and traveled from Boston to Shady Creek, but he ended up dead before he could do anything with that ring. Sadie was the person of interest even though she insisted she hadn't seen the man when he was in town, nor had she spoken to him in over four months.
The side story of Sadie's neighboring small business owner, Grayson Blake was interesting. He seemed to have a chip on his shoulder concerning her, but everyone else swore he was so nice and polite. It was a nice switch-up to have a female detective in charge of the case. She was by-the-book, but she was very fair and didn't jump to the conclusion of Sadie or anyone else being guilty until evidence pointed that way. Despite their initial differences, Grayson came in very handy towards the end, and it seems as though he and Sadie could be making amends and even becoming friendlier.
I really enjoyed the character of Aunt Gilda! Everyone needs an aunt like her. She was completely in favor of Sadie buying the old mill and leaving it as a pub (but adding books) even though Sadie's mom wasn't. Gilda offered her a place to stay a couple of times when someone was threatening Sadie. The showdown was pretty exciting and led to a fun ending. For drink and muffin fans, there are three drink recipes at the end and a recipe for carrot muffins.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher which in no way swayed how or if I would write a favorable review. My opinions are my own.
Sadie Coleman had moved to Shady Creek, VT after losing her job leaving a lying, dishonest ex-boyfriend behind. Eric was apparently so determined to win her back that he'd bought a ring and traveled from Boston to Shady Creek, but he ended up dead before he could do anything with that ring. Sadie was the person of interest even though she insisted she hadn't seen the man when he was in town, nor had she spoken to him in over four months.
The side story of Sadie's neighboring small business owner, Grayson Blake was interesting. He seemed to have a chip on his shoulder concerning her, but everyone else swore he was so nice and polite. It was a nice switch-up to have a female detective in charge of the case. She was by-the-book, but she was very fair and didn't jump to the conclusion of Sadie or anyone else being guilty until evidence pointed that way. Despite their initial differences, Grayson came in very handy towards the end, and it seems as though he and Sadie could be making amends and even becoming friendlier.
I really enjoyed the character of Aunt Gilda! Everyone needs an aunt like her. She was completely in favor of Sadie buying the old mill and leaving it as a pub (but adding books) even though Sadie's mom wasn't. Gilda offered her a place to stay a couple of times when someone was threatening Sadie. The showdown was pretty exciting and led to a fun ending. For drink and muffin fans, there are three drink recipes at the end and a recipe for carrot muffins.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher which in no way swayed how or if I would write a favorable review. My opinions are my own.
January 1, 2019
Sarah Fox's first Literary Pub Mystery was sheer enjoyment! Protagonist Sadie Coleman is my kind of sleuth--smart, courageous, and a wee bit nosy. The book's Vermont setting warmed my heart, and each of the characters was a delight. Just when I thought I'd ID'd the killer, I got a big surprise--an ending I never guessed! Now I'm anxious for the second installment in this charming new cozy series.
October 8, 2018
I really enjoyed this first book in Sarah Fox's new Literary Pub Mystery series. Wine and Punishment takes place at a literary pub - a pub with books, how clever is that?!?! I love, love, love the idea behind this setting...and it did not disappoint! Sadie Coleman has moved to Shady Creek, Vermont after breaking up with her boyfriend, and opens the Inkwell, the aforementioned literary pub. Due to the facts that her ex-boyfriend is murdered during a surprise visit to town, an arsonist is on the loose, and she's butting heads with the handsome owner of the local brewery, Sadie may have bitten off more than she can chew, especially since the events of the annual Autumn Festival are taking up all of her time. A well-crafted cozy with what promises to be a good cast of recurring characters, I didn't guess whodunit, and I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series. 5 stars!
December 21, 2018
Wine and Punishment by Sarah Fox is the 1st book in Literary Pub Mystery, and a great start. Sadie Coleman loves books, and she is happy about a new beginning in Shady Creek, Vermont, where she bought a pub, calling it Inkwell. Sadie lost her job in Boston, and broke up with Eric, her ex because his gambling debt, before moving to Shady Creek. Sadie is busy with Autumn Festival in town, when she hears Eric is looking for her because he wants her back. Before Sadie talks to Eric, he is found dead. Not only is this book an exciting mystery but also very refreshing and a quick read. If you love fun cozy mysteries, which are my favorite, I recommend this book.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 23, 2018
I loved the idea of a literary pub. The story was well written and the mystery itself kept me guessing until the end.
Sadie is a fun, likeable character who I am looking forward to getting to know.
I recommend this book and happily give it 5 stars.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
Sadie is a fun, likeable character who I am looking forward to getting to know.
I recommend this book and happily give it 5 stars.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
December 12, 2019
Sadie is adjusting to life in a small town as the owner of a pub which has literary-themed drinks and several book clubs. While she is getting ready for the town’s fall festival her ex shows up but before she can see him, he is killed. The local antique also catches fire the same night so something is up. Sadie tries to figure out who killed her ex and why.
November 13, 2018
The first book of a new series from an author I enjoy. It is an easy read and the writing flows smoothly. However, I never attached to the characters. I didn't think much of the protagonist, Sadie Coleman. I felt she cross the line when she went peeking places.
Sadie is visiting a town in Vermont and sees a grist mill which she is able to buy. It was a pub and she added special cocktail drinks and literary sections so book clubs can meet and discuss books. Her ex-boyfriend comes to town and is murder. Sadie has an alibi and she hears nothing from the police. Sadie is being dazzled by someone. She decides she must find the guilty party before her new life becomes broken. The ending is unusual and creative. I recommend this book.
Disclosure: Many thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own
Sadie is visiting a town in Vermont and sees a grist mill which she is able to buy. It was a pub and she added special cocktail drinks and literary sections so book clubs can meet and discuss books. Her ex-boyfriend comes to town and is murder. Sadie has an alibi and she hears nothing from the police. Sadie is being dazzled by someone. She decides she must find the guilty party before her new life becomes broken. The ending is unusual and creative. I recommend this book.
Disclosure: Many thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own
November 1, 2018
This mystery book was a tad disappointing for me. Sadie is thirty, has bought an old mill in a new town. She has turned it into a quaint themed book pub! All very clever has the making for an exciting read. Her ex-boyfriend comes to town, gets murdered, all eyes are on her. She decides to find out who killed her ex. Thus we begin her sleuthing skills. Let me say; the story starts breaking down here. The hunk who owns a microbrewery is at the top of her list; her Aunt likes him, he has been in town six years working on getting his brewery to be successful. She behaves like a teenager around him; the story breaks down further! How can a thirty-year-old, who has lived with a man, not recognize sexual attraction with Grayson, the microbrewery owner? I am so disappointed in this book. It should be put in YA section.
I do not recommend. Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read this book.
Carolintallahassee
I do not recommend. Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read this book.
Carolintallahassee
March 12, 2019
For whatever reason, I just could never get into this book. I thought it was a cozy, but usually cozies are kind of light and amusing. This was neither. The story kind of plodded along, introducing more and more characters. My favorites were Aunt Gilda and Wimsey. Sadie could leave nothing alone whether or not it was relevant, and succeeded in annoying almost everyone. Perhaps it was the mood I was in, but I just didn't care for this book. Some of my hostility was the way Sadie talked "what in the Charles Dickens is that?" There were other equally stupid remarks, but my mind has shut them out. Puhleeeeeeze.
March 4, 2019
I gave up on this after the third time I heard myself saying "You stupid woman" to the protagonist. I've decided I can't be bothered with books where the (invariably) female main character does daft things because she is a nosy busy-body who thinks, with absolutely no reason to believe it, that she can solve crimes better than any police force.
I don't believe "cosy" need mean "idiotic"!
I don't believe "cosy" need mean "idiotic"!
November 19, 2020
Enjoyed this old fashioned and kinda sweet novel
January 21, 2021
This looks like a promising new cozy mystery series! I am very pleased with the setting. The main character owns and manages a Literary Pub in Shady Creek, Vermont. There are many books inside the pub. In the main room there is a bar and tables for dining, and there are two other rooms named the Christie room (named after Agatha Christie, of course) and the Mary Stewart room. So far there are two book clubs that meet in one of the rooms, the Romance Book Club and the Mystery Book Club. Additionally, the owner of the pub has plans for a Science Fiction Book Club and a Fantasy Book Club. The owner lives upstairs in her apartment above the pub, and she has a beautiful white cat named Wimsey. The pub serves Literary Themed Cocktails: Happily Ever After, Malt in Our Stars, Yellow Brook Road, Huckleberry Gin, and six or seven more. The book club members drink the cocktails during their meetings. What a great setting for a cozy mystery!
July 25, 2022
Not a bad start to the series. I read the other series by this author and like it. Wine and Punishment is set in a small Vermont town. Sadie is starting over after the demise of her relationship. She purchased the building to start a literary themed pub. Her ex shows up to try and win her back and ends up dead. On the same night that Eric dies, the local antique store catches on fire, and Sarah starts to think the two crimes are connected. Of course she cannot just leave it to the police, Sarah has to investigate the suspects, who include, Grayson, the local craft beer master.
The mystery was good, Sarah was a ditz and needed to not jump accuse everyone based on nothing 🙄🙄
The mystery was good, Sarah was a ditz and needed to not jump accuse everyone based on nothing 🙄🙄
February 18, 2019
4 stelle e mezza.
L'idea del pub letterario è fantastica: io ci passerei delle ore lì, anche se non consumererei uno dei cocktail inventati dalla protagonista, ma una bella birra, o forse del sidro, se ci fosse.
La soluzione del mistero mi ha colta completamente di sorpresa, quindi un bravo all'autrice. Non vedo l'ora di leggere ancora di Sadie e compagni.
L'idea del pub letterario è fantastica: io ci passerei delle ore lì, anche se non consumererei uno dei cocktail inventati dalla protagonista, ma una bella birra, o forse del sidro, se ci fosse.
La soluzione del mistero mi ha colta completamente di sorpresa, quindi un bravo all'autrice. Non vedo l'ora di leggere ancora di Sadie e compagni.
October 20, 2021
Woohoooo, I've just discovered a new-to-me cozy mystery author and I love her style! So excited because it looks like she has other series out as well. Love the literary pub angle -- not a venue I frequent at all but if I could find a literary pub I might venture in for a non-alcoholic beverage and one of Sadie's book clubs. :-) Wonderful introduction to the town and a bevy of interesting secondary characters. Lots of scope for suspects, but also, some leftover malingering feelings that might prove interesting in future books.
May 25, 2021
Such a disappointing start to the series. I started Sarah Fox's Pancake House Mysteries a while ago, and I thought Marley was not as nonsensical as some cozy heroines tend to be. She was a bit snoopy, and she did get into situations but she tried to avoid those as much as possible. So it really bothered me that Sadie showed not a lick of sense, nor any respect for private property. I also really don't like Grayson. Or Shady Creek for that matter. All of them jump to conclusions and act like brats. It's not endearing. I'll give this one more book and if it's more of the same, I'm out.
January 5, 2019
Wine and Punishment by Sarah Fox is the debut novel in A Literary Pub Mystery. Sadie Coleman has purchased an old grist mill in Shady Creek, Vermont. She has turned the lower floor into Inkwell, a literary themed pub. The annual Autumn Festival is scheduled to begin in four days with the pumpkin catapult contest, a pie contest (which Sadie has got roped into judging) and vendor tents. Sadie is getting ready to depart for her Aunt Gilda’s birthday party when one of her employee’s tells her that her ex-boyfriend, Eric is in the pub. Not wanting a confrontation, Sadie sneaks out the back and enjoys an evening with her aunt and friends. On her way home, Sadie is shocked to see the Treasure Chest, a local antique shop and the building next door on fire. The next morning Sadie goes to her car and finds that someone has slashed all four of the tires. Sadie believes Grayson Blake of Spirit Hill Brewery is responsible and heads off to confront him. Instead, Sadie finds a deceased Eric sprawled by the edge of the creek. Sadie finds herself at the top of Detective Marquez’s suspect list which puts her wonderful new life in jeopardy. Feeling that she has no other choice, Sadie starts nosing around. She needs to discover why Eric was in town and retrace his footsteps. Can Sadie find the killer before she must trade in her pub apron for a prison jumpsuit?
I thought Wine and Punishment was nicely written with a good flow which made it an easy to read cozy mystery. I loved the description of the old grist mill that has been turned into a literary pub called Inkwell (wood, stone and plenty of books). There are cozy chairs, books and drinks named for books and authors. Sadie Coleman has left Boston to start over in Shady Creek, Vermont where her Aunt Gilda resides. Sadie leaves her ex-boyfriend, Eric behind who has trouble recognizing the truth and a terrible gambling addiction. I liked the picturesque town of Shady Creek with its charming shops and friendly residents (minus the killer). The town is gearing up for the annual Autumn Festival which has the unique pumpkin catapult contest. Each team constructs its own catapult for which Sadie is thankful she has employee, Damien Keys. The scarecrow for outside Inkwell is dressed like Sherlock Holmes (how cute). Sarah Fox took the time to set the stage for the series by describing the town and giving readers details on the main characters. I hope we get to learn more about the secondary characters in future books (Damien and Melanie for example). There is even a cute cat named Wimsy. I liked the interactions between Sadie and Wimsy, but I was surprised that she let her cat run around outside. There are various books and authors mentioned throughout Wine and Punishment including Ellery Adams. The mystery was interesting, and some readers may be surprised by the killer’s identity. I did feel that the pacing was inconsistent. I would have liked a brisker pace. I am giving Wine and Punishment 3.5 stars. Wine and Punishment is a good beginning to A Literary Pub Mystery series and I am curious to see what the author dishes up next time.
I thought Wine and Punishment was nicely written with a good flow which made it an easy to read cozy mystery. I loved the description of the old grist mill that has been turned into a literary pub called Inkwell (wood, stone and plenty of books). There are cozy chairs, books and drinks named for books and authors. Sadie Coleman has left Boston to start over in Shady Creek, Vermont where her Aunt Gilda resides. Sadie leaves her ex-boyfriend, Eric behind who has trouble recognizing the truth and a terrible gambling addiction. I liked the picturesque town of Shady Creek with its charming shops and friendly residents (minus the killer). The town is gearing up for the annual Autumn Festival which has the unique pumpkin catapult contest. Each team constructs its own catapult for which Sadie is thankful she has employee, Damien Keys. The scarecrow for outside Inkwell is dressed like Sherlock Holmes (how cute). Sarah Fox took the time to set the stage for the series by describing the town and giving readers details on the main characters. I hope we get to learn more about the secondary characters in future books (Damien and Melanie for example). There is even a cute cat named Wimsy. I liked the interactions between Sadie and Wimsy, but I was surprised that she let her cat run around outside. There are various books and authors mentioned throughout Wine and Punishment including Ellery Adams. The mystery was interesting, and some readers may be surprised by the killer’s identity. I did feel that the pacing was inconsistent. I would have liked a brisker pace. I am giving Wine and Punishment 3.5 stars. Wine and Punishment is a good beginning to A Literary Pub Mystery series and I am curious to see what the author dishes up next time.
December 1, 2019
While reading, I kept picturing this as a Hallmark movie (not necessarily a bad thing). A quick read that may be considered a "cozy mystery"...the setting was definitely a place I'd like to visit and the characters-while not completely fleshed out-were likable. #2 in the series was just published this week, so I'll check it out and see how the series moves forward.
"Booklover Sadie Coleman knows that in life, as in fiction, the right setting can make a world of difference. The small town of Shady Creek, Vermont, seems like the perfect place to start over after losing her Boston job to a merger and her relationship to her ex’s gambling addiction. She’s bought and redecorated the old grist mill pub, transforming the Inkwell into a cozy spot where tourists and regulars alike can enjoy a pint or a literary-themed cocktail, or join one of several book clubs. Little by little, Sadie is adjusting to the rhythms of her new home. Fall in Shady Creek is bookmarked by the much-anticipated Autumn Festival, complete with a pumpkin catapult competition and pie bake-off. Unfortunately, the season also brings an unwelcome visitor—Sadie’s ex, Eric, who’s angling for a second chance . . .Before Sadie can tell Eric to leave, he’s found dead near the Inkwell. When the local antique shop catches fire on the same night, it’s clear the town is harboring at least one unsavory character. Now, with her Aunt Gilda, her friend Shontelle, and the pub’s patrons all in the mix, Sadie must uncover the truth . . . before a killer declares last call."
"Booklover Sadie Coleman knows that in life, as in fiction, the right setting can make a world of difference. The small town of Shady Creek, Vermont, seems like the perfect place to start over after losing her Boston job to a merger and her relationship to her ex’s gambling addiction. She’s bought and redecorated the old grist mill pub, transforming the Inkwell into a cozy spot where tourists and regulars alike can enjoy a pint or a literary-themed cocktail, or join one of several book clubs. Little by little, Sadie is adjusting to the rhythms of her new home. Fall in Shady Creek is bookmarked by the much-anticipated Autumn Festival, complete with a pumpkin catapult competition and pie bake-off. Unfortunately, the season also brings an unwelcome visitor—Sadie’s ex, Eric, who’s angling for a second chance . . .Before Sadie can tell Eric to leave, he’s found dead near the Inkwell. When the local antique shop catches fire on the same night, it’s clear the town is harboring at least one unsavory character. Now, with her Aunt Gilda, her friend Shontelle, and the pub’s patrons all in the mix, Sadie must uncover the truth . . . before a killer declares last call."
November 18, 2018
Wine and Punishment is the debut of the Literary Pub Mystery series set in the small town of Shady Creek, VT and featuring Sadie Coleman. Sadie has left her job and her gambling ex boyfriend behind in Boston and sunk her life savings into purchasing the old gristmill turned pub and creating the Inkwell, a book themed pub.
It's time for the annual Autumn Festival and Sadie is looking forward to having a booth on the Town Green which will feature samples of her delicious drinks named after famous books, authors and characters. The two employees that she inherited with the pub, Damien and Mel, are working on building a pumpkin catapult and helping to keep things running smoothly. Sadie is also thankful for her Aunt Gilda and her new friend Shontelle who are both helping her to settle into the community.
Things are looking up until her ex boyfriend, Eric appears in the bar and not looking for a public confrontation, Sadie and Shontelle sneak out the back door. On the way back from Aunt Gilda's birthday party Sadie comes across the local antique store which is fully engulfed in flames, the next day rumors swirl that the fire was arson.
The only person that is not very welcoming is brewery owner, Grayson Blake. While all of the other women in town think he's dreamy, Sadie can't understand what they all see in the grumpy man. After finding her tires slashed Sadie confronts Grayson in his driveway and they are both sidetracked from the argument when Grayson's dog discovers a dead body on the bank of the creek. Shockingly, the body turns out to be none other than Eric and it's no surprise when Sadie becomes the primary suspect in his murder.
Determined to clear her name, Sadie sets out to investigate and ultimately finds herself the killers target. A series of cruel pranks and another bout of arson threaten to drive Sadie and her fluffy cat Wimsey away, but an unlikely ally comes to her aid and together they uncover a murderer.
A terrific debut with a fast paced plot. The author creates a cozy town setting and a wonderful cast of main characters. So many possibilities lie ahead for the series, the creation of the different book clubs, a possible friendship between Sadie and Grayson, etc. I will definitely be on the lookout for the second in the series.
I received an advanced copy of Wine and Punishment from NetGalley via Kensington Books. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
It's time for the annual Autumn Festival and Sadie is looking forward to having a booth on the Town Green which will feature samples of her delicious drinks named after famous books, authors and characters. The two employees that she inherited with the pub, Damien and Mel, are working on building a pumpkin catapult and helping to keep things running smoothly. Sadie is also thankful for her Aunt Gilda and her new friend Shontelle who are both helping her to settle into the community.
Things are looking up until her ex boyfriend, Eric appears in the bar and not looking for a public confrontation, Sadie and Shontelle sneak out the back door. On the way back from Aunt Gilda's birthday party Sadie comes across the local antique store which is fully engulfed in flames, the next day rumors swirl that the fire was arson.
The only person that is not very welcoming is brewery owner, Grayson Blake. While all of the other women in town think he's dreamy, Sadie can't understand what they all see in the grumpy man. After finding her tires slashed Sadie confronts Grayson in his driveway and they are both sidetracked from the argument when Grayson's dog discovers a dead body on the bank of the creek. Shockingly, the body turns out to be none other than Eric and it's no surprise when Sadie becomes the primary suspect in his murder.
Determined to clear her name, Sadie sets out to investigate and ultimately finds herself the killers target. A series of cruel pranks and another bout of arson threaten to drive Sadie and her fluffy cat Wimsey away, but an unlikely ally comes to her aid and together they uncover a murderer.
A terrific debut with a fast paced plot. The author creates a cozy town setting and a wonderful cast of main characters. So many possibilities lie ahead for the series, the creation of the different book clubs, a possible friendship between Sadie and Grayson, etc. I will definitely be on the lookout for the second in the series.
I received an advanced copy of Wine and Punishment from NetGalley via Kensington Books. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
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October 5, 2024My intro to the world of cozy mysteries and now I'm in love! A very well-written, intriguing autumnal story with a pub, a cat, and a festival, this story was just what I needed to get me in the mood for fall. I highly recommend!
November 22, 2019
This was okay. I'm a little off cozies right now as they all feel like the same book.
November 10, 2022
This was a very enjoyable start to a series.
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