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A Culinary Mystery #13
The Candy Cane Caper
The theft of a friend’s priceless, family-legacy Christmas ornaments brings amateur detective and culinary expert, Sadie Hoffmiller, back on the case in a new standalone cozy mystery.
In the latest chapter to the Culinary Mystery series, amateur detective Sadie Hoffmiller continues combining her sleuthing with her cooking and baking to connect with people and gain information she might otherwise not have access to. Moreover, now that Sadie is married to Detective Pete Cunningham, she has a street-savvy husband to test out her crime-solving theories.
With Christmas approaching, Sadie is preparing for a large blended-family gathering—including many new grandchildren—in their home in Fort Collins, Colorado. Even with the festive chaos, Sadie drops everything when word gets out that her friend, Mary, is the victim of a holiday robbery.
At ninety-four years old, and nearly blind, Mary knows this is may be her last Christmas and the last year to enjoy her family heirloom Christmas tree ornaments. She wants just one more holiday to display her ornaments and following Christmas Eve Mass, she’ll pass them on to her great-granddaughter, Joy. Though priceless to the family, the collection has been valued at $40,000, and the Christmas tree in the care facility has never looked so good. But before the ornaments can be retrieved by Mary, eleven of the most expensive ornaments are stolen.
A holiday Christmas caper might be new to Sadie, but she’s ready to mix in her seasoned crime-solving skills with a pinch of new holiday recipes.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2019
73 people are currently reading
2494 people want to read
About the author
Josi S. Kilpack
82 books2,047 followers I wrote my first book while on bed rest with my third child in 1998 and haven't stopped. My most recent books have been Historical Romance through the Proper Romance line with Shadow Mountain Publishing.
I currently live in Willard, Utah with my husband, and children.
I currently live in Willard, Utah with my husband, and children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 342 reviews
September 27, 2019
This was another cute cozy mystery torpedoed by a super unlikable lead character. Sadie was annoying as #"¤%. A judgmental busybody that I wanted to throat punch about a million times. Other than that, the rest of the book was good. Very festive. The mystery was well done. A nice array of likable side characters. And a lot of yummy sounding recipes to try out. 
January 26, 2020
The Candy Cane Caper is the 13th book in the Culinary Mystery cozy series by Josi Kilpack. Sadie Hoffmiller is at home with family to celebrate Christmas. When someone steals valuable antique ornaments right off the tree of an elderly neighbor, Sadie is on a crusade to find out who could possibly be low enough to steal from a 94-year old woman. Then she discovers other thefts that might be related to the case. Someone in Fort Collins is definitely a grinch.....and Sadie is determined to find out who!
This is the first book I've read in this series. I'm definitely adding the rest of the books to my TBR list! This was a very charming and entertaining light mystery. I thorougly enjoyed the characters, the plot and the holiday theme. It made for an enjoyable afternoon of reading! That's just what I want from a cozy mystery novel! I look forward to the other stories in this series!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Shadow Mountain Publishing. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
This is the first book I've read in this series. I'm definitely adding the rest of the books to my TBR list! This was a very charming and entertaining light mystery. I thorougly enjoyed the characters, the plot and the holiday theme. It made for an enjoyable afternoon of reading! That's just what I want from a cozy mystery novel! I look forward to the other stories in this series!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Shadow Mountain Publishing. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
November 9, 2020
3.5 stars for a light and fluffy holiday cozy, enjoyed the antique Christmas ornaments plotline and the lovely recipes!
December 1, 2019
Josi S. Kilpack has many Culinary Mysteries and I guarantee you'll be delighted with this tasty treat as it's a Christmas Mystery.
The Candy Cane Caper is another delectable mystery in the series and it's absolutely chock full a fabulous story line, memorable characters and a mystery you'll think you have solved but as you follow along do you really ?
I loved all the unique recipes for Christmas and can't wait to try them out.
Published October 1st 2019 by Shadow Mountain.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
The Candy Cane Caper is another delectable mystery in the series and it's absolutely chock full a fabulous story line, memorable characters and a mystery you'll think you have solved but as you follow along do you really ?
I loved all the unique recipes for Christmas and can't wait to try them out.
Published October 1st 2019 by Shadow Mountain.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
October 12, 2019
Josi S. Kilpack’s The Candy Cane Caper is a wonderful and gentle Christmas cosy that’ll fill you with holiday joy. This is my first book in the series but I had no problem understanding what was happening.
Former private investigator Sadie has an overflowing plate this Christmas. She’s prepping for an epic holiday gathering for her huge blended family. But now, there’s a mystery in the mix! Someone has stolen expensive antique Christmas tree ornaments from Mary, Sadie’s elderly friend. Mary lives in a care facility and this will probably be her last Christmas so Sadie hides the theft from her. Mary wants to enjoy her ornaments for one last Christmas before she gives them to her beloved great-granddaughter after Christmas Eve Mass. With time ticking, Sadie must recover Mary’s precious ornaments before it’s too late!
I wasn’t expecting such a sweet and deep story but this book strikes all the right chords to really move you! Kilpack skilfully handles issues of death, making amends, and family against the backdrop of the warmth and hope of the holiday season.
This book is a true cosy. It’s super clean with no violence. I really like the mystery of the missing ornaments and I loved learning about their history. I enjoyed Sadie’s culinary adventures as well as her sleuthing and shenanigans! There are several viable and well-written suspects and the plot takes some interesting turns. I really didn’t guess the culprit until the big reveal.
However, I wish the plot was more exciting with more tension and suspense. I had no doubt that Sadie would save the day. However, this didn’t ruin my enjoyment of the book. The lack of tension actually adds to the gentleness of the book and I think this will appeal to readers who are looking for an easy and quiet read.
The characters are all memorable and well-crafted. I like Sadie but her anxiety and judging attitude isn’t entirely relatable and sometimes irritated me. Mary’s storyline is touching and sad. I loved her interactions with Sadie, as well as beloved great-granddaughter Joy and somewhat estranged daughter Ivy. I like that there is meaningful and organic growth for all these characters.
I absolutely love the delicious festive recipes! I like that they’re meaningfully placed at the end of the chapters that the food was mentioned in. I love that so many of them are approachable and I can’t wait to make Sadie’s Candy Cane Crinkles or her Cinnamon Pie.
The Candy Cane Caper is a sweet cosy that’ll put you in the Christmas frame of mind. This is the first Kilpack book that I’ve read and I will definitely check out more in this series!
Thank you to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for this book in exchange for an honest review.
🎅🎅🎅🎅 Santa Clauses out of 5!
Former private investigator Sadie has an overflowing plate this Christmas. She’s prepping for an epic holiday gathering for her huge blended family. But now, there’s a mystery in the mix! Someone has stolen expensive antique Christmas tree ornaments from Mary, Sadie’s elderly friend. Mary lives in a care facility and this will probably be her last Christmas so Sadie hides the theft from her. Mary wants to enjoy her ornaments for one last Christmas before she gives them to her beloved great-granddaughter after Christmas Eve Mass. With time ticking, Sadie must recover Mary’s precious ornaments before it’s too late!
I wasn’t expecting such a sweet and deep story but this book strikes all the right chords to really move you! Kilpack skilfully handles issues of death, making amends, and family against the backdrop of the warmth and hope of the holiday season.
This book is a true cosy. It’s super clean with no violence. I really like the mystery of the missing ornaments and I loved learning about their history. I enjoyed Sadie’s culinary adventures as well as her sleuthing and shenanigans! There are several viable and well-written suspects and the plot takes some interesting turns. I really didn’t guess the culprit until the big reveal.
However, I wish the plot was more exciting with more tension and suspense. I had no doubt that Sadie would save the day. However, this didn’t ruin my enjoyment of the book. The lack of tension actually adds to the gentleness of the book and I think this will appeal to readers who are looking for an easy and quiet read.
The characters are all memorable and well-crafted. I like Sadie but her anxiety and judging attitude isn’t entirely relatable and sometimes irritated me. Mary’s storyline is touching and sad. I loved her interactions with Sadie, as well as beloved great-granddaughter Joy and somewhat estranged daughter Ivy. I like that there is meaningful and organic growth for all these characters.
I absolutely love the delicious festive recipes! I like that they’re meaningfully placed at the end of the chapters that the food was mentioned in. I love that so many of them are approachable and I can’t wait to make Sadie’s Candy Cane Crinkles or her Cinnamon Pie.
The Candy Cane Caper is a sweet cosy that’ll put you in the Christmas frame of mind. This is the first Kilpack book that I’ve read and I will definitely check out more in this series!
Thank you to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for this book in exchange for an honest review.
🎅🎅🎅🎅 Santa Clauses out of 5!
October 6, 2019
Oh, Sadie Hoffmiller--how I've missed you! This is a series that does better read in order, since Sadie's relationships gradually build over time, but it's not essential. This installment is awhile after the last one ended and was a true delight!
Sadie is a typical busybody housewife, who finds herself in over her head time and again when she sticks her nose too far into someone else's business. But I absolutely adore her! Her heart is pure and her intent to help others is good, but she has a knack for finding herself in the most precarious situations ever. I'm left cringing, blushing, and internally dying, yet I find myself cheering her on.
Helping her friend, Mary, have the best last Christmas ever, Sadie once again finds herself smack in the middle of a mystery. Her newish husband, Pete, is out of town and she's also trying to prepare to host their blended families for the holidays and what better way to do so than through the kitchen? I absolutely love Sadie's recipes that are shared in the books and I can't wait to try some of the Christmas foods included in this book.
Sadie's character is like wrapping up in a soft, comfy security blanket, but she's also entertaining with her unique experiences and I loved her comeback.
Content: mild mystery/danger/peril
*I received a complimentary copy through the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Sadie is a typical busybody housewife, who finds herself in over her head time and again when she sticks her nose too far into someone else's business. But I absolutely adore her! Her heart is pure and her intent to help others is good, but she has a knack for finding herself in the most precarious situations ever. I'm left cringing, blushing, and internally dying, yet I find myself cheering her on.
Helping her friend, Mary, have the best last Christmas ever, Sadie once again finds herself smack in the middle of a mystery. Her newish husband, Pete, is out of town and she's also trying to prepare to host their blended families for the holidays and what better way to do so than through the kitchen? I absolutely love Sadie's recipes that are shared in the books and I can't wait to try some of the Christmas foods included in this book.
Sadie's character is like wrapping up in a soft, comfy security blanket, but she's also entertaining with her unique experiences and I loved her comeback.
Content: mild mystery/danger/peril
*I received a complimentary copy through the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
October 1, 2019
It's been awhile since I read a Sadie Hoffmiller culinary mystery! It was so good to be back in the crazy that is Sadie's life. She has mellowed a bit since her first books but she is still the same Sadie and I've kind of missed her.
Mysteries are Sadie's thing and when her friend's prized ornaments go missing, Sadie is on the case in an instant. Her investigations have her talking to lots of people and that's where I find the most satisfaction. She makes connections with people and learns about them. Even though I'm always wondering who did it, I am enjoying the growing relationships and how perceptions change as Sadie gets to know people. There is always guaranteed to be a scene or two that will make you smile because Sadie can't help but get herself into an embarrassing scrape or two.
This is a sweet mystery, cozy, and full of fun recipes, perfect for the holiday season. There are a couple I'm going to try for sure.
Mysteries are Sadie's thing and when her friend's prized ornaments go missing, Sadie is on the case in an instant. Her investigations have her talking to lots of people and that's where I find the most satisfaction. She makes connections with people and learns about them. Even though I'm always wondering who did it, I am enjoying the growing relationships and how perceptions change as Sadie gets to know people. There is always guaranteed to be a scene or two that will make you smile because Sadie can't help but get herself into an embarrassing scrape or two.
This is a sweet mystery, cozy, and full of fun recipes, perfect for the holiday season. There are a couple I'm going to try for sure.
October 2, 2019
Oh Sadie, how I adore you! It was so much fun to read this new holiday book in this series! I have to say that I haven't read all of the Sadie Hoffmiller Culinary Mysteries. But I'm close to reading them all. I've actually been listening to several of them lately. The first book in the series had me chuckling and shaking my head at Sadie. But the more books I read in the series, the more I have come to love Sadie's character and her quirky ways. She's great!
I missed Sadie and Pete's wedding since I haven't read the previous book to this one but I loved knowing that they were able to work out all of their struggles and get married. The last one I've read in this series before I read this newest one was, Baked Alaska. Which was perfect because that one Sadie and Pete end up engaged by the end. (Sorry if I spoiled that for anyone)
The Candy Cane Caper was such a charming read with another crime for retired PI, Sadie Hoffmiller, to solve. I adored her friend Mary and Mary's family. The history that is woven into this story was really neat. I loved learning more about Mary's antique ornaments and the history of them. So neat.
One thing that had me chuckling...in the previous books when Sadie is frustrated she has her own words she uses rather than swearing. Biscuits, is a favorite. But this one she changes it up because well, it's Christmas time. Gingerbread or Nutcracker or Reindeer. It was fun and made me smile every time!
I didn't want the story to end. I loved it. It's a perfect cozy mystery and fits perfectly in the Christmas season. Sadie can blend in to any situation and befriend anyone. She's my hero! ;-)
The ending was a sweet moment that pulled at my heart. It was sweet, tender and beautiful! Anyone who has enjoyed reading Sadie's stories and connecting with these characters will find it a real treat to come back for another fun mystery to be solved and for Sadie to save the day just in the Nick of Time. (I couldn't resist-it's Sadie's inner self that's bringing it out in me)!
Content: Clean and sweet!
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I missed Sadie and Pete's wedding since I haven't read the previous book to this one but I loved knowing that they were able to work out all of their struggles and get married. The last one I've read in this series before I read this newest one was, Baked Alaska. Which was perfect because that one Sadie and Pete end up engaged by the end. (Sorry if I spoiled that for anyone)
The Candy Cane Caper was such a charming read with another crime for retired PI, Sadie Hoffmiller, to solve. I adored her friend Mary and Mary's family. The history that is woven into this story was really neat. I loved learning more about Mary's antique ornaments and the history of them. So neat.
One thing that had me chuckling...in the previous books when Sadie is frustrated she has her own words she uses rather than swearing. Biscuits, is a favorite. But this one she changes it up because well, it's Christmas time. Gingerbread or Nutcracker or Reindeer. It was fun and made me smile every time!
I didn't want the story to end. I loved it. It's a perfect cozy mystery and fits perfectly in the Christmas season. Sadie can blend in to any situation and befriend anyone. She's my hero! ;-)
The ending was a sweet moment that pulled at my heart. It was sweet, tender and beautiful! Anyone who has enjoyed reading Sadie's stories and connecting with these characters will find it a real treat to come back for another fun mystery to be solved and for Sadie to save the day just in the Nick of Time. (I couldn't resist-it's Sadie's inner self that's bringing it out in me)!
Content: Clean and sweet!
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
October 24, 2019
It has been a while since I read a culinary mystery featuring Sadie. I am reminded of why I love her so much. She is a bumbling amateur detective who has a strong desire to help others.
This story takes place several years since the last one. If you have never read a book featuring Sadie Hoffmiller Cunningham, this is not a bad place to start. Of course, if you read this one you may want to go back and read the others.
Sadie's dear friend is celebrating her last Christmas. She celebrates by putting up a Christmas tree with her valuable ornaments adorning it. When several are missing Sadie is on the case. She wants this Christmas to be a happy one for her friend.
One of my favorite aspects of a Sadie book is the awkward situations she gets herself into. She has a wonderful sense of humor and doesn't take herself too seriously. She is a character that I really enjoy. This book was perfect for the coming season and for enjoyment.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This story takes place several years since the last one. If you have never read a book featuring Sadie Hoffmiller Cunningham, this is not a bad place to start. Of course, if you read this one you may want to go back and read the others.
Sadie's dear friend is celebrating her last Christmas. She celebrates by putting up a Christmas tree with her valuable ornaments adorning it. When several are missing Sadie is on the case. She wants this Christmas to be a happy one for her friend.
One of my favorite aspects of a Sadie book is the awkward situations she gets herself into. She has a wonderful sense of humor and doesn't take herself too seriously. She is a character that I really enjoy. This book was perfect for the coming season and for enjoyment.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
October 17, 2019
I love Sadie Hoffmiller (now Sadie Cunningham), the "59-ish" amateur detective that seems to find trouble, or it finds her, wherever she goes. It's been five long years since the last Culinary Mystery book, but now Sadie's back with all kinds of Christmas plans which may get derailed when her good friend's Christmas ornaments are stolen.
Sadie's husband Pete is out of town on business and she's got a lot to do by Christmas Eve. It's their first Christmas with all of their kids, their spouses and children coming in to celebrate, so Sadie wants everything to be perfect. Her good friend Mary is in a care facility, and with this more than likely being her last Christmas Sadie wants it to be a memorable one. Everything's going according to her schedule until Mary's heirloom ornaments disappear from the tree in her room. Somehow in between cooking and delivering gifts, Sadie needs to make time to catch the thief and recover the ornaments and she's only got 24 hours to do it!
Oh, how I love Sadie. I've read every book in the series and was thrilled when I found out the author was writing another one. I love Sadie's organizational skills and all her lists because I'm a list maker too. I love the humorous situations Sadie finds herself in--when she tries to get information from Joy's boyfriend without him knowing who is was priceless. There's also the scene in the mall when Sadie's mistaken for the hired Mrs. Claus that didn't show up. They talk Sadie into filling in and the children's reactions to her reminded me of Tim Allen's The Santa Claus. There's also Sadie's exclamations using Christmas words such as Holy Nutcracker. I loved them all.
This book has so much heart to it too. Sadie helps Mary and her daughter start mending their strained relationship and she helps Mary's great-granddaughter Joy come to terms with something that happened years before. This is a perfect book to read to get into the Christmas spirit and of course it includes all of Sadie's recipes.
Thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain for allowing me to read this wonderful book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Sadie's husband Pete is out of town on business and she's got a lot to do by Christmas Eve. It's their first Christmas with all of their kids, their spouses and children coming in to celebrate, so Sadie wants everything to be perfect. Her good friend Mary is in a care facility, and with this more than likely being her last Christmas Sadie wants it to be a memorable one. Everything's going according to her schedule until Mary's heirloom ornaments disappear from the tree in her room. Somehow in between cooking and delivering gifts, Sadie needs to make time to catch the thief and recover the ornaments and she's only got 24 hours to do it!
Oh, how I love Sadie. I've read every book in the series and was thrilled when I found out the author was writing another one. I love Sadie's organizational skills and all her lists because I'm a list maker too. I love the humorous situations Sadie finds herself in--when she tries to get information from Joy's boyfriend without him knowing who is was priceless. There's also the scene in the mall when Sadie's mistaken for the hired Mrs. Claus that didn't show up. They talk Sadie into filling in and the children's reactions to her reminded me of Tim Allen's The Santa Claus. There's also Sadie's exclamations using Christmas words such as Holy Nutcracker. I loved them all.
This book has so much heart to it too. Sadie helps Mary and her daughter start mending their strained relationship and she helps Mary's great-granddaughter Joy come to terms with something that happened years before. This is a perfect book to read to get into the Christmas spirit and of course it includes all of Sadie's recipes.
Thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain for allowing me to read this wonderful book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
October 21, 2019
The Candy Cane Caper by Josi S. Kilpack is a sweet clean mystery with protagonist Sadie Hoffmiller Cunningham at the center of the book. Sadie and her husband Pete have been married for five years and have a combined family. Pete is a detective and Sadie is a retired schoolteacher, amateur detective, and chef.
Sadie's neighbor, Mary who is now in a home is in declining health and not expected to live much longer. She is determined to last one more Christmas in the hopes of repairing her relationship with her daughter Ivy. Her granddaughter Joy is around to help Mary out in whatever she needs including daily visits.
Sadie also visits regularly and because Mary is blind, she helps put up a tree for Mary. Mary has a lot of ornaments that are worth a long of money. She is worried that something could happen to the ornaments as Mary wishes to give them to Ivy. Sadie's worries are affirmed as some ornaments turn up missing. Now Sadie has to find out who stole the ornaments before Mary realizes that they are missing. Mary wants to give the ornaments to Ivy after Christmas. Pete is away so she is on her own.
Not only is she trying to find out who the thief is she has to get ready for the holidays, bake the Cunningham Candy Cane Cake and worry about the weather all within 24 hours. Family members are all coming from different states and bad weather is headed to Fort Collins.
What did I think, well I was pleased with Sadie and the dozen Christmas themed recipes in the book. I loved Sadie, strong determined woman and a wonderful friend to Mary. A few times later in the book, I was moved to tears. It is sad when someone is dying and the author wrote this part of the story with empathy but it was also lighthearted. This book is a sweet, clean mystery with great characters. I can't wait to make some of the recipes with the holidays coming they will be helpful.
If you are looking for a fun mystery, then pick up a copy of the book! I recommend it.
Sadie's neighbor, Mary who is now in a home is in declining health and not expected to live much longer. She is determined to last one more Christmas in the hopes of repairing her relationship with her daughter Ivy. Her granddaughter Joy is around to help Mary out in whatever she needs including daily visits.
Sadie also visits regularly and because Mary is blind, she helps put up a tree for Mary. Mary has a lot of ornaments that are worth a long of money. She is worried that something could happen to the ornaments as Mary wishes to give them to Ivy. Sadie's worries are affirmed as some ornaments turn up missing. Now Sadie has to find out who stole the ornaments before Mary realizes that they are missing. Mary wants to give the ornaments to Ivy after Christmas. Pete is away so she is on her own.
Not only is she trying to find out who the thief is she has to get ready for the holidays, bake the Cunningham Candy Cane Cake and worry about the weather all within 24 hours. Family members are all coming from different states and bad weather is headed to Fort Collins.
What did I think, well I was pleased with Sadie and the dozen Christmas themed recipes in the book. I loved Sadie, strong determined woman and a wonderful friend to Mary. A few times later in the book, I was moved to tears. It is sad when someone is dying and the author wrote this part of the story with empathy but it was also lighthearted. This book is a sweet, clean mystery with great characters. I can't wait to make some of the recipes with the holidays coming they will be helpful.
If you are looking for a fun mystery, then pick up a copy of the book! I recommend it.
January 3, 2021
3 stars
Adorable! First of all, any story set during Christmas has a special magic. Secondly, I love that this cozy mystery surrounded stolen goods, not a murder
Adorable! First of all, any story set during Christmas has a special magic. Secondly, I love that this cozy mystery surrounded stolen goods, not a murder
December 31, 2022
This was actually better than I thought it would be. Cute characters with some good humor. I liked the dialogue and the plot way more than some of the other cheesy Christmas books I have read. I might try another one in this series.
October 9, 2019
I am normally a sucker for anything Josi writes. Of course, up until now, I have only read her historical romances. But, thanks to the publishers over at Shadow Mountain, I was sent a copy of this culinary mystery.
Now, I am not a Christmas person. So reading about decorating trees and holiday cheer didn’t really appeal to me. I DO love mysteries, however. This one follows a middle aged woman and her close friend, an elderly and dying Mary. Mary is blind and lives in a nursing home. Her antique Christmas ornaments are stolen and Sadie is on the case. (Apparently that’s a thing? Dresden and kugel ornaments worth a fortune? Who knew?)
My main question throughout this book was: how on earth does Sadie have time to bake all of these items – 12 to be specific – within a 24 hour window? All while solving a mystery? I can barely bake donuts in a 3 hour window, I can’t even imagine doing meringues and crinkle cookies and pies. Props to her. That’s goals if there ever were some.
One big negative to me was the interference in Mary’s family life. I know that we solicit information and help to our friends, but it felt very…busybody-ish. Sure, I was irritated that Mary overlooked her daughter, but that’s between them.
I’ll leave the whodunit up to you, but while i enjoyed this book, I didn’t LOVE it. Of course, I will continue reading Josie Kilpack books till I die, so there’s nothing lost there. This one just wasn’t my cup of tea. Maybe I need to go back to the beginning of the culinary mysteries. Come on. We all know I’m bout to go back and read all of them.
Also, now I’m hungry. Thanks a lot Josi. Can I have some of the cookies that Sadie was baking?
Now, I am not a Christmas person. So reading about decorating trees and holiday cheer didn’t really appeal to me. I DO love mysteries, however. This one follows a middle aged woman and her close friend, an elderly and dying Mary. Mary is blind and lives in a nursing home. Her antique Christmas ornaments are stolen and Sadie is on the case. (Apparently that’s a thing? Dresden and kugel ornaments worth a fortune? Who knew?)
My main question throughout this book was: how on earth does Sadie have time to bake all of these items – 12 to be specific – within a 24 hour window? All while solving a mystery? I can barely bake donuts in a 3 hour window, I can’t even imagine doing meringues and crinkle cookies and pies. Props to her. That’s goals if there ever were some.
One big negative to me was the interference in Mary’s family life. I know that we solicit information and help to our friends, but it felt very…busybody-ish. Sure, I was irritated that Mary overlooked her daughter, but that’s between them.
I’ll leave the whodunit up to you, but while i enjoyed this book, I didn’t LOVE it. Of course, I will continue reading Josie Kilpack books till I die, so there’s nothing lost there. This one just wasn’t my cup of tea. Maybe I need to go back to the beginning of the culinary mysteries. Come on. We all know I’m bout to go back and read all of them.
Also, now I’m hungry. Thanks a lot Josi. Can I have some of the cookies that Sadie was baking?
July 21, 2019
Thanks to the folks at Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in return for my honest review. I read this authors first book and now her most recent offering and the basic style of the book and the main character remain true to the initial offering about 12 books ago. That being said, this cozy mystery is a little to "cutsie" for me. Aimed at the Hallmark Channel crowd, the author writes well, but the main character just grates on my nerves. But I do admire an author who knows her stuff and writes to a dedicated group of fans. Here we have some antique and expensive Christmas ornaments that are taken from the room of a dying patient at a Nursing home. These things do happen, and the author does point out (not sure if that is her intent) this important issue in the lives of elder patients who either are in nursing homes or have caregivers. Since book 1, our heroine Sadie has become a private investigator and learned how to pick locks, but always manages to circumvent the rules to get to the eventual solution as is done here. And, as with the first book, we are treated to about 10 recipes throughout the book. These are good! I have copied at least 4 or 5 of them for our family to make together. For me that is the strongpoint of the book, along with the authors writing to her dedicated body of fans and admirers.
November 16, 2019
I'm the proud owner of this entire series. It was fun to return to Sadie's world and her quirky habits. All in all, her caring nature and love for others shined through in this entertaining holiday caper.
December 20, 2019
The Candy Cane Caper by Josi S. Kilpack is the thirteenth A Culinary Mystery. It can be read as a standalone for those new to the series (like me). Sadie Cunningham is a retired detective who now uses her expertise to craft culinary mysteries when not whipping up baked goods. Sadie takes time out of her baking schedule, to help her dying friend, Mary decorate her Christmas tree. Mary has a collection of vintage ornaments that her father brought over from Germany and France after World War I. When eleven ornaments are found missing the next day, Sadie works to get them back. She does not want Mary’s last Christmas ruined by a thief. Sadie bakes up some special cookies and sets out to wheedle answers out of suspects. I liked that Sadie actively investigated the crime. There are good clues that help readers follow the path to the guilty party. I appreciated that this mystery was a robbery instead of a murder. I enjoyed the descriptions of Mary’s beautiful vintage Christmas ornaments. It is a shame that they do not make ornaments (kugel and Dresden paper) like this any longer. Mary’s collection is rare and valuable. There are some humorous moments in The Candy Cane Caper with my favorite being when Mrs. Claus got her bustle stuck on a chair. Candy Cane Caper is a lighthearted cozy mystery that reminds me of Ellie Alexander’s A Bakeshop Mystery series with Jules. There are recipes included for the various items that Sadie baked. The Candy Cane Caper is charming Christmas cozy with a salacious Santa, a bothersome bustle, a bevy of baked goods, a kugel loving criminal, and a tight timeline.
October 4, 2019
I was so excited to see that Josi Kilpack was giving us another Sadie Hofmiller mystery. I loved that whole series and was missing it! The Candy Cane Caper is vintage Sadie and fans will not be disappointed.
Sadie has a lot on her plate. Her husband is out of town and she's getting ready for a blended family Christmas and wants everything to go smoothly. Her neighbor, Mary, is ill and this will likely be her last Christmas. Sadie wants everything to be perfect for her friend and is horrified when Mary's heirloom Christmas ornaments are stolen. She fits in her investigation of the theft between cooking culinary masterpieces for her upcoming family holiday. And there are plenty of unexpected turns along the way!
I love how the author is always able to stay true to Sadie's character. She doesn't break the rules, exactly, just bends them, and always seems to find trouble no matter what. There are some laugh out loud moments in this story as well as an underlying theme of not judging those around us, healing hearts before it's too late, and the importance of family. This fun mystery is just the thing to start off your Christmas season with a little Sadie sleuthing, lots of great recipes, and the reminder to cherish those we love. I am so happy to have another Sadie book to add to my collection.
Sadie has a lot on her plate. Her husband is out of town and she's getting ready for a blended family Christmas and wants everything to go smoothly. Her neighbor, Mary, is ill and this will likely be her last Christmas. Sadie wants everything to be perfect for her friend and is horrified when Mary's heirloom Christmas ornaments are stolen. She fits in her investigation of the theft between cooking culinary masterpieces for her upcoming family holiday. And there are plenty of unexpected turns along the way!
I love how the author is always able to stay true to Sadie's character. She doesn't break the rules, exactly, just bends them, and always seems to find trouble no matter what. There are some laugh out loud moments in this story as well as an underlying theme of not judging those around us, healing hearts before it's too late, and the importance of family. This fun mystery is just the thing to start off your Christmas season with a little Sadie sleuthing, lots of great recipes, and the reminder to cherish those we love. I am so happy to have another Sadie book to add to my collection.
August 26, 2019
Sadie is gearing up for Christmas and getting her blended family together. She has food to prepare, gifts to buy, and cookies to deliver to friends and neighbors. Her once neighbor Mary asks her to help set up her Christmas tree in the facility that she is now living in and Sadie agrees to help. She knows that this will be Mary's last holiday and wants to make the elderly woman's last days as happy and cheerful as possible. While trimming the tree Sadie soon realizes that the ornaments being hung are not only old but worth quite a bit of money. Mary tells her that she would like to leave them to her granddaughter so that she can sell them and make her life better. Sadie isn't sure about leaving the pricey ornaments up for anyone to see but it will only be for a few days. When Sadie gets a call from Joy, Mary's niece, telling her that around ten ornaments are missing she I owe she must step in and investigate. Will she be able.to find the ornaments before Mary knows they are gone? Follow along to fix out just what happens!!! This was the first book I've read from this author and even though it wasn't the first of the series it wasn't hard for me to keep up with all the characters. I enjoyed the read and look forward to returning to the beginning to get to know the characters better!!!
I received an ARC of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received an ARC of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 16, 2022
Fantastic holiday cozy mystery
I really love this author that I discovered accidentally while browsing in the library.
Sadie is a wonderful character and I have enjoyed every single book in this series.
I really love this author that I discovered accidentally while browsing in the library.
Sadie is a wonderful character and I have enjoyed every single book in this series.
October 2, 2019
I’m always happiest when I’m reading a mystery book of some sort. I have loved this series by Josi Kilpack. It made my day when I heard that she was releasing a new Sadie book after 5 years. And it was completely worth waiting for!
This book didn’t pick up right where Wedding Cake left off. I loved that. It’s been 5 years since the last book about Sadie and it had been five years since Sadie and Pete got married in that book. It just worked!
Anyway….Sadie has a dear friend who is blind and lives in a nursing home. Her super expensive Christmas ornaments disappear. And it’s up to Sadie to find them and put them back before her friend misses them on Christmas Eve. To do so, she must get help from all the right people and not let the thief know she’s onto them.
I love Sadie so much! She might be my very favorite character ever. Sadie is kind of a busy body, not as much as she was five years ago. I felt like Sadie had grown up some since then. She’s also really good at what she does. She can find clues like no one else. But there’s always something that just makes me laugh. Like the scene when she’s Mrs. Claus and she makes a huge mess. That was probably my favorite chapter.
One of my very favorite things about this series is the recipes. I love that the reader can make the same things that Sadie makes in the book. It would be so fun to make these for a book club that had read the book.
This book is so great! I loved the mystery. It kept me guessing. I love the characters, and the recipes. And the final chapter left me teary eyed. This is a book for all of you out there that love food and mystery. It’s such a great combination.
This book didn’t pick up right where Wedding Cake left off. I loved that. It’s been 5 years since the last book about Sadie and it had been five years since Sadie and Pete got married in that book. It just worked!
Anyway….Sadie has a dear friend who is blind and lives in a nursing home. Her super expensive Christmas ornaments disappear. And it’s up to Sadie to find them and put them back before her friend misses them on Christmas Eve. To do so, she must get help from all the right people and not let the thief know she’s onto them.
I love Sadie so much! She might be my very favorite character ever. Sadie is kind of a busy body, not as much as she was five years ago. I felt like Sadie had grown up some since then. She’s also really good at what she does. She can find clues like no one else. But there’s always something that just makes me laugh. Like the scene when she’s Mrs. Claus and she makes a huge mess. That was probably my favorite chapter.
One of my very favorite things about this series is the recipes. I love that the reader can make the same things that Sadie makes in the book. It would be so fun to make these for a book club that had read the book.
This book is so great! I loved the mystery. It kept me guessing. I love the characters, and the recipes. And the final chapter left me teary eyed. This is a book for all of you out there that love food and mystery. It’s such a great combination.
September 22, 2019
There is something comforting and wonderfully familiar in reading at Sadie novel. It was as if I was coming home to visit and old, dear friend. Everything about Sadie exceeds my love of precision and order. I loved how she was investigating while prepping for the holidays. Sadie s a wonderful multi tasker. I read each page carefully, trying to figure out who dunit before Sadie. I love the thoughts in her head, she truly makes me smile. I loved, loved the ending. The Candy Cane, it will be the perfect book to cure your Sadie craving and to bring the holiday spirit.
June 9, 2021
The Candy Cane Caper by Josi S. Kilpack is the 13th book in the Culinary Mystery series. Sadie Hoffmiller Cunningham is preparing to host Christmas but manages to investigate the disappearance of her elderly friend's antique Christmas Tree ornaments. Having read the series, I was excited to see another addition to the series and this book did not disappoint. I loved to see all the Christmas based recipes and loved learning about antique Christmas ornaments. A wonderfully delightful and typically cozy mystery.
May 23, 2019
SADIE IS BACK and I could not stop reading!
The story setting is wonderful-
The crime is perfect-- until Sadie solves it :)
The recipes are calling my name-
And the ending is heart-melting.
LOVED. LOVED. LOVED. IT!
The story setting is wonderful-
The crime is perfect-- until Sadie solves it :)
The recipes are calling my name-
And the ending is heart-melting.
LOVED. LOVED. LOVED. IT!
October 23, 2019
4.5 Stars
THE CANDY CANE CAPER is another enjoyable story in this cozy mystery series with more fabulous recipes to try out. Readers are sure to love these memorable characters, following along as a thief is revealed, and the Christmas setting. The ending is especially endearing. Highly recommended to fans of the series and cozy mysteries with plenty of heart.
I've only read a few of the books in this series, but didn't have any issues getting into and following along in this story. Some of the information was a bit irrelevant because of that (such as the status of Sadie's children and other prior characters), but didn't affect my enjoyment of the story. It was fun to see how Sadie and Pete were doing and to see Sadie dive back into trying to solve a mystery. I enjoyed the friendship and family relationships, some of which were complex. I also enjoyed seeing the sweet moments between Sadie and Pete, who have finally found happiness. I appreciated how the author showed that perceptions can be so misleading. I also enjoyed trying to figure out who the thief was right alongside Sadie and thought the mystery aspect of this story was well crafted. There was quite a bit of heart in this story and some poignant moments that made it more than just another cozy mystery. The ending was so perfect and tugged on my heart as well. And the recipes... don't read this when you're hungry! I definitely will be making these recipes and hopefully finding a few favorites to remake in coming years.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I thoroughly enjoyed reading this! Definitely an entertaining and heartwarming book for cozy mystery readers and an addition that fans of the series will love.
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
THE CANDY CANE CAPER is another enjoyable story in this cozy mystery series with more fabulous recipes to try out. Readers are sure to love these memorable characters, following along as a thief is revealed, and the Christmas setting. The ending is especially endearing. Highly recommended to fans of the series and cozy mysteries with plenty of heart.
I've only read a few of the books in this series, but didn't have any issues getting into and following along in this story. Some of the information was a bit irrelevant because of that (such as the status of Sadie's children and other prior characters), but didn't affect my enjoyment of the story. It was fun to see how Sadie and Pete were doing and to see Sadie dive back into trying to solve a mystery. I enjoyed the friendship and family relationships, some of which were complex. I also enjoyed seeing the sweet moments between Sadie and Pete, who have finally found happiness. I appreciated how the author showed that perceptions can be so misleading. I also enjoyed trying to figure out who the thief was right alongside Sadie and thought the mystery aspect of this story was well crafted. There was quite a bit of heart in this story and some poignant moments that made it more than just another cozy mystery. The ending was so perfect and tugged on my heart as well. And the recipes... don't read this when you're hungry! I definitely will be making these recipes and hopefully finding a few favorites to remake in coming years.
In the end, was it what I wished for? I thoroughly enjoyed reading this! Definitely an entertaining and heartwarming book for cozy mystery readers and an addition that fans of the series will love.
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
October 3, 2019
Josi S Kilpack’s The Candy Cane Caper is a splendid combination of holiday read and cozy mystery that readers will delight in from cover to cover, especially with the return of Sadie. This story is about finding some holiday ornaments that have disappeared. They belong to an older lady that is about to pass away and her friends and family want to find them before she realizes they are missing so they can make this the best Christmas for her before she passes. This story has a huge theme of being with the ones you hold dear, both friends and family, during the holiday season. Readers will be thrilled with this exciting Sadie cozy mystery.
Series: A Culinary Mystery
Genre: contemporary, cozy mystery, holiday
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Publication date: October 1, 2019
Number of pages: 320
Other books in the series:
1-Lemon Tart
2-English Trufle
3-Devil’s Food Cake
4-Key Lime Pie
5-Blackberry Crumble
6-Pumpkin Roll
7-Banana Split
8-Tres Leches Cupcakes
9-Baked Alaska
10-Rocky Road
11-Fortune Cookie
12-Wedding Cake
A review copy of this book was provided by the author via her launch team. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Series: A Culinary Mystery
Genre: contemporary, cozy mystery, holiday
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Publication date: October 1, 2019
Number of pages: 320
Other books in the series:
1-Lemon Tart
2-English Trufle
3-Devil’s Food Cake
4-Key Lime Pie
5-Blackberry Crumble
6-Pumpkin Roll
7-Banana Split
8-Tres Leches Cupcakes
9-Baked Alaska
10-Rocky Road
11-Fortune Cookie
12-Wedding Cake
A review copy of this book was provided by the author via her launch team. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
October 1, 2019
Series: Culinary Mysteries – Book 13
Author: Josi S. Kilpack
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Holiday/Culinary
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Page Count: 320
From Shadow Mountain comes a standalone holiday cozy book from author Josi Kilpack, in her “Culinary Mysteries” cozy series The Candy Cane Caper. This beautiful holiday book will have readers smiling, longing for the holidays, family, and a warm fire, but it will also at times leave readers in tears. It is an emotional ride from beginning to end and one that will stay with readers for a very long time to come.
Sadie’s friend Mary is dying, there is no question that this will be her last Christmas, and everyone wants to make sure it is precisely what Mary wants it to be. But when someone steals some antique Christmas ornaments from Mary’s tree, Sadie does whatever she can to get them back before Mary finds out they are gone and ruins her final holiday.
This holiday cozy book doesn’t have a murder, only a thief. The suspects are likable, even loveable, even the thief. Its heart wrenching knowing that Mary will die and if readers don’t cry, then they aren’t human. This book is one of those rare tomes that will make readers want to hold on for dear life to those they love for as long as they can. To keep memories of times gone by close to their heart and relive events that made them happy. Especially holidays spent with loved ones who are no longer with them.
The Candy Cane Caper is filled with clues and suspects, all of which enhance the reader's enjoyment and keep them guessing. The twist at the end of the book will have the tears they shed for Mary dry up replaced with a big smile that will spread across their faces. This holiday cozy book has everything a great book should have and more. The writing is smooth and proper, the characters memorable and the plot original. I am thrilled to recommend this book for readers who are looking for holiday cozies for the upcoming season.
Author: Josi S. Kilpack
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Holiday/Culinary
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Page Count: 320
From Shadow Mountain comes a standalone holiday cozy book from author Josi Kilpack, in her “Culinary Mysteries” cozy series The Candy Cane Caper. This beautiful holiday book will have readers smiling, longing for the holidays, family, and a warm fire, but it will also at times leave readers in tears. It is an emotional ride from beginning to end and one that will stay with readers for a very long time to come.
Sadie’s friend Mary is dying, there is no question that this will be her last Christmas, and everyone wants to make sure it is precisely what Mary wants it to be. But when someone steals some antique Christmas ornaments from Mary’s tree, Sadie does whatever she can to get them back before Mary finds out they are gone and ruins her final holiday.
This holiday cozy book doesn’t have a murder, only a thief. The suspects are likable, even loveable, even the thief. Its heart wrenching knowing that Mary will die and if readers don’t cry, then they aren’t human. This book is one of those rare tomes that will make readers want to hold on for dear life to those they love for as long as they can. To keep memories of times gone by close to their heart and relive events that made them happy. Especially holidays spent with loved ones who are no longer with them.
The Candy Cane Caper is filled with clues and suspects, all of which enhance the reader's enjoyment and keep them guessing. The twist at the end of the book will have the tears they shed for Mary dry up replaced with a big smile that will spread across their faces. This holiday cozy book has everything a great book should have and more. The writing is smooth and proper, the characters memorable and the plot original. I am thrilled to recommend this book for readers who are looking for holiday cozies for the upcoming season.
November 8, 2019
I really enjoyed this Christmas story. Sadie is stressed over getting everything done for Christmas, it will be the first time she and her husband will have their blended families together and she want it perfect. The weather doesn’t look like it will cooperate either. Her former neighbor and good friend is in hospice so she is visiting her often. She helps Mary put very expensive ornaments on the tree, warning that it really wasn’t safe. After one day some of the ornaments are missing and Sadie is on the hunt to find them. Pete is on a case in another state and not happy about Sadie investigating.
December 31, 2019
Thought the idea of this book was interesting: Christmas. Recipes. Mystery, so I picked it up. I had not idea there was a whole series of the same--Culinary Mysteries.
It didn't really keep my attention until the second half. Was a sweet story that did have the Christmas feels needed around this season.
It didn't really keep my attention until the second half. Was a sweet story that did have the Christmas feels needed around this season.
didn-t-finish
January 20, 2020Not a bad book, but not a good fit for me at this time. Passing it to a friend who will enjoy it more than I currently am. No star rating, as I didn’t finish it. Again, not a bad book, just not the book for me now.
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