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Bakeshop Mystery #12
Chilled to the Cone
Pastry chef and amateur sleuth Juliet Capshaw finds herself on thin ice as she attempts to solve her latest case of small-town murder in Ellie Alexander's Chilled to the Cone: A Bakeshop Mystery.
The deep freeze has thawed in Ashland, Oregon and Torte is gearing up for a busy spring. When a surprise opportunity to launch a pop-up ice cream shop comes her way, Jules jumps at the chance to showcase Torte’s signature iced drinks and cold custards. But selling the desserts of her dreams comes at a price. . .and, before she knows it, Jules’s life swirls into a nightmare. One of the town’s most colorful characters, a street performer known for wearing capes and a cone-shaped hat, turns up dead just as Torte 2.0 is set to open its doors. Can Jules get the scoop on what happened to “The Wizard” of Ashland before her new business venture reaches a chilling conclusion?
The deep freeze has thawed in Ashland, Oregon and Torte is gearing up for a busy spring. When a surprise opportunity to launch a pop-up ice cream shop comes her way, Jules jumps at the chance to showcase Torte’s signature iced drinks and cold custards. But selling the desserts of her dreams comes at a price. . .and, before she knows it, Jules’s life swirls into a nightmare. One of the town’s most colorful characters, a street performer known for wearing capes and a cone-shaped hat, turns up dead just as Torte 2.0 is set to open its doors. Can Jules get the scoop on what happened to “The Wizard” of Ashland before her new business venture reaches a chilling conclusion?
336 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 29, 2020
288 people are currently reading
1344 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Alexander
78 books3,035 followersEllie is a voracious storyteller and a lover of words and all things bookish. She believes that stories have the ability to transport and transform us. With over forty published novels and counting, her goal is to tell stories that provide points of connection, escape, and understanding.
She loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers in crafting the story they’ve always wanted to tell while navigating the path to publication that’s right for them.
Find out more about Ellie and her books by visiting her website at: http://www.elliealexander.co/ or following her on social media—
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellie_alexa...
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https://www.pinterest.com/elliealexan...
She loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers in crafting the story they’ve always wanted to tell while navigating the path to publication that’s right for them.
Find out more about Ellie and her books by visiting her website at: http://www.elliealexander.co/ or following her on social media—
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellie_alexa...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elliealexande...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elliealexande...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elliealexand...
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/elliealexan...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 234 reviews
February 24, 2021
Chilled to the Cone is the twelfth book in Ellie Alexander's Bakeshop Mystery series, and another enjoyable addition. In this installment, Jules and the Torte gang are given an opportunity to launch a pop-up ice cream shop in the Railroad District and they decide to take it. Jules's husband Carlos is also back in town, and she realizes that the time has come for them to make a final decision on their relationship. Unfortunately for Jules, her marriage isn't the only thing she has to worry about. When a well-known homeless man is found dead, she quickly finds herself caught up in yet another murder investigation.
This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series, and I always look forward to spending some time with Jules and the gang. From the vivid descriptions of Ashland to the delectable goods being baked at Torte and the heartwarming friendships and relationships, it truly feels like catching up with old friends when I read a new installment. Ellie Alexander has done a wonderful job of developing these characters and making her readers care not only about them but also about Torte and Ashland. Romance-wise, there's a lot of exciting news and I can't wait to see what the future holds for these couples.
As for the mystery, I thought it engaging and it definitely kept me guessing. The culprit was on my radar, so the reveal didn't come as a huge surprise but overall it didn't away from my enjoyment of the book. I adore this series and can't wait for the next installment.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series, and I always look forward to spending some time with Jules and the gang. From the vivid descriptions of Ashland to the delectable goods being baked at Torte and the heartwarming friendships and relationships, it truly feels like catching up with old friends when I read a new installment. Ellie Alexander has done a wonderful job of developing these characters and making her readers care not only about them but also about Torte and Ashland. Romance-wise, there's a lot of exciting news and I can't wait to see what the future holds for these couples.
As for the mystery, I thought it engaging and it definitely kept me guessing. The culprit was on my radar, so the reveal didn't come as a huge surprise but overall it didn't away from my enjoyment of the book. I adore this series and can't wait for the next installment.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 9, 2021
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Torte is growing again. This time across town in a pop-up space. Scoops will feature Torte’s signature iced drinks and frozen concrete custards as Andy and Sterling take their delicious creations to the new venue. The place needs some updating but the Torte crew is up to the task. That is until The Wizard, one of Ashland’s colorful characters known for his cape and cone-shaped hat, usually seen riding his bike is killed near the new pop-up shop. The murder gives Jules the chills but with a little help, she is confident she can take the killer down.
I am so excited that I finally got all caught up on this series and was able to read this book the day it was released.
Chilled to the Cone takes us back to Ashland as the busy season is about to take off. All the characters I have come to love are back and Spring seems to be a time of romance for several. I was pleased to see Carlos in town and that he and Jules are working on their relationship. It has reached the time for them to make some hard decisions. I also enjoyed how Andy and Sterling are growing in their jobs at Torte. The way Jules and her mom encourage their employees is really satisfying. The staff truly is an extended family and each person is valued for their unique talents and personalities. Lance and Jules continue to lean on each other and join in a little sleuthing. They are a fun team. All the characters have really grown over the course of the series in realistic ways but there’s still room for future growth.
Ms. Alexander gives readers a nice mystery with plenty of suspects and twists and turns. Several characters were involved in trying to solve the murder. The killer was at the top of my personal suspect list but the motive didn’t completely lock in until the very end. They shared the spotlight with a couple of other viable individuals but this person never fell from my top spot. The way the mystery played out was very exciting and I was totally engaged from beginning to end.
The story was very well-plotted. The author takes on a theme of homelessness and mental illness in a way to bring awareness without detracting from the mystery.
As usual, the author tempts our taste buds with several food and drink descriptions. Thankfully we have a Culver’s here in town so I could satisfy my custard cravings with one of their concrete mixers. They have a wide variety of flavors but none as creative as Sterling’s.
Chilled to the Cone is a delightful addition to the Bakeshop Mystery Series. Ellie Alexander never disappoints. Her characters draw you in and the mysteries hold on tight.
The bad thing about being all caught up on this series is that I now have to wait for the next story to be released. Mocha, She Wrote will be released on June 29, 2021. But the author does have another series for me to investigate. The Sloan Krause Mysteries will be headed to my Kindle soon.
Torte is growing again. This time across town in a pop-up space. Scoops will feature Torte’s signature iced drinks and frozen concrete custards as Andy and Sterling take their delicious creations to the new venue. The place needs some updating but the Torte crew is up to the task. That is until The Wizard, one of Ashland’s colorful characters known for his cape and cone-shaped hat, usually seen riding his bike is killed near the new pop-up shop. The murder gives Jules the chills but with a little help, she is confident she can take the killer down.
I am so excited that I finally got all caught up on this series and was able to read this book the day it was released.
Chilled to the Cone takes us back to Ashland as the busy season is about to take off. All the characters I have come to love are back and Spring seems to be a time of romance for several. I was pleased to see Carlos in town and that he and Jules are working on their relationship. It has reached the time for them to make some hard decisions. I also enjoyed how Andy and Sterling are growing in their jobs at Torte. The way Jules and her mom encourage their employees is really satisfying. The staff truly is an extended family and each person is valued for their unique talents and personalities. Lance and Jules continue to lean on each other and join in a little sleuthing. They are a fun team. All the characters have really grown over the course of the series in realistic ways but there’s still room for future growth.
Ms. Alexander gives readers a nice mystery with plenty of suspects and twists and turns. Several characters were involved in trying to solve the murder. The killer was at the top of my personal suspect list but the motive didn’t completely lock in until the very end. They shared the spotlight with a couple of other viable individuals but this person never fell from my top spot. The way the mystery played out was very exciting and I was totally engaged from beginning to end.
The story was very well-plotted. The author takes on a theme of homelessness and mental illness in a way to bring awareness without detracting from the mystery.
As usual, the author tempts our taste buds with several food and drink descriptions. Thankfully we have a Culver’s here in town so I could satisfy my custard cravings with one of their concrete mixers. They have a wide variety of flavors but none as creative as Sterling’s.
Chilled to the Cone is a delightful addition to the Bakeshop Mystery Series. Ellie Alexander never disappoints. Her characters draw you in and the mysteries hold on tight.
The bad thing about being all caught up on this series is that I now have to wait for the next story to be released. Mocha, She Wrote will be released on June 29, 2021. But the author does have another series for me to investigate. The Sloan Krause Mysteries will be headed to my Kindle soon.
January 25, 2021
I don't know how Ellie does this every single time. But she has given me chills, made me tear up, and have made me fallen in love with this series even more than I was before. I loved the character growth in this book. So many loose ends were tied up and yet she untied some that still have me guessing what is going to happen next in the quaint town of Ashland, Oregon.
I love watching characters grow and become more of who they really want to be. I would highly recommend reading this series in order if you can. Watching Jules' relationships with friends, in romance, and in her self is something to grow with by reading from the beginning.
I love that Torte is trying to stretch its wings and branch out into different avenues and try new things. This makes the series stay fresh and new. A lot of times when someone is this far along in a series it is hard not to become stagnant and to cease growing. But Ellie has my heart with these characters. I can't wait for the next one.
I love watching characters grow and become more of who they really want to be. I would highly recommend reading this series in order if you can. Watching Jules' relationships with friends, in romance, and in her self is something to grow with by reading from the beginning.
I love that Torte is trying to stretch its wings and branch out into different avenues and try new things. This makes the series stay fresh and new. A lot of times when someone is this far along in a series it is hard not to become stagnant and to cease growing. But Ellie has my heart with these characters. I can't wait for the next one.
January 11, 2021
Chilled to the Cone by Ellie Alexander takes us back to Ashland, Oregon when the theater season is about to begin. Jules Capshaw has an opportunity to open a seasonal shop in the Railroad District. It would give her a chance to expand Torte’s offerings into iced coffee’s and ice cream. Jules is worried about taking on more work while Carlos is in town. She can tell that he is debating about where he wants to spend his future and Carlos has been keeping secrets recently. With encouragement from her mother and her staff, Jules signs the lease and work begins on the new space (and it needs it). Plans are derailed when a local eccentric homeless man named Wizard is murdered. Jules cannot help but delve into the death and the other misdeeds that have been happening in the area. Chilled to the Cone is the 12th A Bakeshop Mystery. If you have not read the previous books in the series, I do not suggest you start with Chilled to the Cone. The storyline regarding Carlos and Jules’ future is finally resolved. Will Carlos stay in Ashland or return to the cruise ship? I like that we are seeing growth in the characters. Jules, Andy, Sterling, Stephanie, Lance, and Thomas are growing in their careers and in their personal lives. I like how Jules, Helen, the Professor, the Torte staff, and their friends have become one big family. They support each other and are there for each other in times of need. The identity of the killer was a no brainer (it would have been nice if it had not been so obvious). I would have liked a more complex mystery as well, but I know that it does not go with this series. There are good details, a couple of suspects, and helpful clues. Cooking, baking, eating, coffee drinking, and romance abound in this cozy mystery. I liked the idea of Scoops. The Torte gang came up with some clever ideas for this pop-up shop. The ending will leave readers smiling. Chilled to the Cone is a sweet treat with chilled coffee confections, blooming romances, teen trouble, pop-up problems, a furtive figure, and long anticipated answer.
May 9, 2021
Jules has the chance to launch a pop ice cream shop right next to a yoga center. A street performer known for his outfits is killed right y where her shop will be. What happened to the wizard and why did most of the town love him and two are accusing him of crimes. I do wish it had, had more about her relationships with her workers and mother in it.
December 10, 2020
CHILLED TO THE CONE, the twelfth book in the Bakeshop Mystery series by Ellie Alexander, recaptures the strengths of earlier books in this delicious series which made this newest release a delight to read. Ms. Alexander has always penned strong, well-developed characters that fans love, however with the last few installments the mystery has taken second seat. Chilled to the Cone remedies that with a well-plotted, page turning, heart-rending whodunit that drew me in and kept me turning pages. Protagonist Jules Capshaw has a lot to balance: a growing bakery/café, part owner in a winery, trying to find out if her marriage is salvageable, and an opportunity to take on a satellite location for their signature ice creams. Thrown into the hectic mix, Jules finds the body of the homeless man, known as The Wizard. The varieties of situations she finds herself in and how she reacts and interacts with family, friends, and customers, allows the reader to feel like they can get to know her. Jules is one of the kindest, most thoughtful protagonists there are and I love the relationship she’s developed with so many of the supporting characters. Each new release makes me feel like I’m receiving a special visit from close friends.
Part of that caring personality prompts Jules to find out why The Wizard was killed Ms. Alexander treats the social issue of homelessness and mental illness, so prevalent in that population, with sincere respect and sensitivity. I appreciate how she weaves the issues into the story without detracting from the plot. Jules, together with her charming sidekick, Lance (who often steals the scenes he’s in) start asking questions around town in order to find the justice The Wizard deserves. Clues are sprinkled throughout for the sharp reader and there are several suspects to keep the reader guessing. As I turned pages, I found myself immersed in enjoying the unfolding of the mystery while experiencing the sights, sounds, smells, and especially tastes that are offered up in this delectable read!
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Part of that caring personality prompts Jules to find out why The Wizard was killed Ms. Alexander treats the social issue of homelessness and mental illness, so prevalent in that population, with sincere respect and sensitivity. I appreciate how she weaves the issues into the story without detracting from the plot. Jules, together with her charming sidekick, Lance (who often steals the scenes he’s in) start asking questions around town in order to find the justice The Wizard deserves. Clues are sprinkled throughout for the sharp reader and there are several suspects to keep the reader guessing. As I turned pages, I found myself immersed in enjoying the unfolding of the mystery while experiencing the sights, sounds, smells, and especially tastes that are offered up in this delectable read!
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 11, 2021
This is my first read by Ellie Alexander and it's number 12 in the Bakeshop Mystery series.
I can see I have quite a bit of catching up to do.
Chilled to the Cone isn't just your typical cozy mystery, it deals with some serious issues as well like teenage delinquency, homelessness and mental health issues.
I enjoyed reading the rapport between the employees, they seemed to have a good relationship with each other. I also enjoyed reading the step by step process of professional cake making.
There was a murder but the book wasn't exclusively focused on this. The romances were great to read, very realistic and heartwarming to read.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
Published December 29th 2020 by St. Martin's Press
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I can see I have quite a bit of catching up to do.
Chilled to the Cone isn't just your typical cozy mystery, it deals with some serious issues as well like teenage delinquency, homelessness and mental health issues.
I enjoyed reading the rapport between the employees, they seemed to have a good relationship with each other. I also enjoyed reading the step by step process of professional cake making.
There was a murder but the book wasn't exclusively focused on this. The romances were great to read, very realistic and heartwarming to read.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
Published December 29th 2020 by St. Martin's Press
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
March 8, 2021
Review to follow
March 2, 2021
So much has happened since Carlos is back in Ashland, Oregon again with Juliet. Juliet has a chance to open a ice cream shop small business. Once she decides, there is lots of work to be done to remodel the place. Then all kinds of things happen, murder, fire, and many questionable people who may be involved. Three couples find love and make it official to each other and lots of happiness is all around them. Being an optimist is the only way to be no matter how life sends you lemons, it can turn out to be wonderful.
April 17, 2023
Ok, ammetto che non è un capolavoro è avevo capito subito chi ci fosse dietro ai vari reati, ma è stato un piacere leggere questo libro. La protagonista non fa delle grandi indagini, incappa nella soluzione per puro caso, ma mi è piaciuto il resto, quello che avviene nella sua vita personale e in quelle delle persone a lei più vicine. Poi ho salivato tutte le volte che preparava qualcosa...
December 16, 2020
The latest of the Baker Mystery series finds Torte further expanding its business and into the world of ice cream (concretes as it’s called in the novel) into a place called Scoops. With a new location to feature the season treats, we are introduced to new characters who own the neighbouring businesses.
We also learn more about Carlos, Jules’ estranged husband who is in Ashland for an extended period of time so that they could sort out what direction they want their marriage to go in.
But when the neighbourhood’s well-known homeless man is found murdered near Scoops, most of the business owners in the area are under suspicion as the killer.
With this novel, there are conclusions regarding some of the characters’ love lives, which is something that was nice to have. However, I may or may not have liked the direction they went.
It was also nice to know more about Carlos’ and his true intentions. But what really threw me off was why Jules thought that a certain someone was going to propose to her when that man was dating someone else for some time. That specific part made me shake my head. I felt it was really unnecessary and turned me off from the story a bit.
On another note, I was able to figure out who the killer was and a part of what they were up to that led to the murder! That never happens.
Overall, while it was nice to read about characters furthering their lives, I felt it wasn’t as entertaining as the previous Bakeshop Mystery books.
We also learn more about Carlos, Jules’ estranged husband who is in Ashland for an extended period of time so that they could sort out what direction they want their marriage to go in.
But when the neighbourhood’s well-known homeless man is found murdered near Scoops, most of the business owners in the area are under suspicion as the killer.
With this novel, there are conclusions regarding some of the characters’ love lives, which is something that was nice to have. However, I may or may not have liked the direction they went.
It was also nice to know more about Carlos’ and his true intentions. But what really threw me off was why Jules thought that a certain someone was going to propose to her when that man was dating someone else for some time. That specific part made me shake my head. I felt it was really unnecessary and turned me off from the story a bit.
On another note, I was able to figure out who the killer was and a part of what they were up to that led to the murder! That never happens.
Overall, while it was nice to read about characters furthering their lives, I felt it wasn’t as entertaining as the previous Bakeshop Mystery books.
February 24, 2022
Spring in Ashland is going to be busier than ever for Juliet Montague Capshaw. With Torte and Uva to run plus her husband Carlos in town, she has her hands full. Or so she thinks. However, when a local pop-up outdoor shop becomes available for rent, Jules's team pushes her to lease the space for a summer ice cream and coffee shop. She isn't sure she wants to expand Torte right now but Sterling and Andy have it all planned out and it seems doable and not too expensive. Jules begins to regret her decision when she sees how much work they have to put into fixing up the kitchen and seating area, not to mention her landlady Addie, who runs a yoga studio and their across the street neighbor Hunter, a bike shop owner, seem to have a vendetta against a homeless man known only as "The Wizard." Jules and her crew have only ever had positive interactions with the man and believe he's harmless. Jules' friend Laney, a food truck owner, agrees. Why is Addie so intense and why does Hunter believe The Wizard is a menace? Even Dean, their dairy owner/delivery man, seems to dislike the man. Is there something Jules missed? When The Wizard dies on the railroad tracks as Sterling tries to rescue the man, Jules is very concerned. The Professor, Thomas and Kerry are on the case but Addie is putting pressure on them to solve it now. Lance thinks he and Jules should try to speed things up a bit more. Can Jules solve the case before it's time for her summer opening?
This mystery is weak, weak, weak. It's SUPER obvious whodunit and why. I figured out everything right away. None of her "concrete" ice cream flavors appeal to me and I HATE coffee so Andy's brain freeze sounds revolting. The baking is really good and some of the things Jules makes sound delicious. I copied down two recipes but there were three I would maybe try if I made them myself tweaking the recipe. Almond extract? Gross. Cherry syrup? Nope, try strawberry maybe for that classic doughnut flavor.
Jules, Jules, Jules. I'm sorry I went back in time because she's still so wishy washy here. She suspects Carlos is hiding a secret and he's going to return to the ship. She believes he misses the action and uncertainty of life on a cruise ship. Does she ask him about the secrecy, the meetings, what he thinks his intentions are? NO! At least not right away. She frests and frets and tries to predict the future and when she does confront him it's not to ask "so what are your plans?" "what's going on?". She confronts him with a "let's say goodbye and part as friends" speech. WHAT THE HECK WOMAN? She's a grown woman who doesn't know how to communicate with her husband. Carlos needs to cut his losses and run. It turns out he loves Uva and getting his hands dirty, raising the grapes, making the perfect wine to grow the region into an internationally recognized top wine region. Does Jules pick up on any of that on her own? No!
Lance manages to be kept to a minimum in this book. He's met someone and now he's acting different. He tries to conform to what he thinks the other man wants him to be which is interesting. He never struck me as that type before. It was funny to see and different. It makes Lance more likable to know he's normal like everyone else when it comes to romance. At least it makes him more like Jules. His interest in murders though makes me want to slap him. The Professor is so calm and incredibly smart. I think he's already suspicious of what The Wizard may have seen that led to his death but who did it is eluding him so far. Thomas is so sweet. There's one cringy scene I had to skip because Juliet is dumb and misreads the situation. I like his sense of humor and how he can adapt to new situations. Kerry is great. She's adapting slowly to Ashland ways but still a tough cop. I'm sure she can solve this case on her own without the help of Jules and Lance.
Jules' mom, Helen, is lovely as always and has great advice for her daughter. I don't get Richard Lord and why he is so paranoid. I understand why he might hold a grudge against Helen but I don't understand why he's always paranoid about Jules or why he has to copy all her ideas and try to ruin her. Even knowing his backstory it doesn't make sense. The young staff have truly come into their own, especially Sterling and Andy. Sterling has always been a wise, old soul but now he's grown up more and becoming more confident. He's now willing to share his ideas with Jules and knows how she thinks. Andy, too, is more confident. He's turning 21 and eager to be thought of as an adult. He's truly showing that maturity in the way he thinks about his coffee drinks and how he too has big plans he knows Jules will fall in with. It's sweet how well they know her and how passionate they are about Torte's growth and making the brand the best it can be.
There are very few new characters here so it wasn't that hard to compile a suspect list. The victim, known as The Wizard, is a homeless man with mental health problems. He rides a bike through town wearing a cape and sometimes doing little magic tricks like making balloon animals to make people smile. He's never caused trouble or done anything harmful as far as anyone knows. The police aren't even sure he's in the system. He certainly didn't deserve enmity and hatred, let alone be murdered. This death is a major tragedy and truly in Ashlandlike. The Wizard has a friend, Sky, another homeless man with paranoia and mental health issues, who may have seen what happened to The Wizard. He's unstable though and no one knows if he's reliable. He fears the killer is out to get him but is it possible he murdered his friend for some reason known only to him? I don't think so. I think he's running scared for a reason!
The only person I don't think is a killer is Laney, Jules's friend. She owns a Hawaiian street food truck and parks it by the railroad tracks. She's the only one in the neighborhood keeping an eye out for The Wizard and trying to take care of him. Is there a reason for that or is she merely a caring sort of person? In contrast, Addie, is portrayed as an entitled, witchy Millenial who wants things her way or the highway. She's very intense for a yoga instructor and super rude. I'm not sure this young woman has a caring bone in her body because she is totally against helping an injured homeless man! That's truly horrid. She really, really hates The Wizard but why? What did he ever do to her? That's the mystery. She sure has enough anger to be a murderer that's for certain. Another person with anger management issues is Hunter. He seems to have a lot of pent up anger and directs it towards The Wizard. He blames the homeless man for vandalizing his bike shop and stealing from him. Um The Wizard has been riding a normal bike since before the shop opened and not an electric bike and how and where would he get the spraypaint? It's obvious he doesn't have the ability to reason well enough to even do graffiti. Also, Jules is smart enough to point out that graffiti artists usually have a signature style. I think this Hunter person isn't used to Ashland ways and doesn't understand the character of the town. I also think his anger is misplaced. He's scary when he's in a temper and if I were Jules, I would pull out of my lease.
Hunter has a son, Lars, who hangs out with a crowd of hoodlums who prefer to ride skateboards to going to school. Lars is a punk kid who doesn't respect rules, boundaries or anything else. Could he have killed The Wizard if The Wizard saw him doing something he wasn't supposed to? The clues do seem to point in that direction. Then there's Dean, the organic dairy farmer Sterling convinces Jules to hire. I don't understand why Jules didn't go out there with Sterling to look at the farm. She takes on a deal with Dean on Sterling's say so. Dean delivers milk around town on his bicycle and seems to be another person who has it out for the homeless men. Why is he so angry at them? He seems very interested in everyone else's business. What's his deal? I think I know what it is. There are numerous obvious clues but Sterling is a good judge of character and checked this guy out so maybe he's just another newcomer who doesn't understand the laid back hippie vibe of the town?
I'm not going back to any of the others I missed. I'll go forward with the newest one to see how that goes. I'm looking forward to that one. It sounds different.
This mystery is weak, weak, weak. It's SUPER obvious whodunit and why. I figured out everything right away. None of her "concrete" ice cream flavors appeal to me and I HATE coffee so Andy's brain freeze sounds revolting. The baking is really good and some of the things Jules makes sound delicious. I copied down two recipes but there were three I would maybe try if I made them myself tweaking the recipe. Almond extract? Gross. Cherry syrup? Nope, try strawberry maybe for that classic doughnut flavor.
Jules, Jules, Jules. I'm sorry I went back in time because she's still so wishy washy here. She suspects Carlos is hiding a secret and he's going to return to the ship. She believes he misses the action and uncertainty of life on a cruise ship. Does she ask him about the secrecy, the meetings, what he thinks his intentions are? NO! At least not right away. She frests and frets and tries to predict the future and when she does confront him it's not to ask "so what are your plans?" "what's going on?". She confronts him with a "let's say goodbye and part as friends" speech. WHAT THE HECK WOMAN? She's a grown woman who doesn't know how to communicate with her husband. Carlos needs to cut his losses and run. It turns out he loves Uva and getting his hands dirty, raising the grapes, making the perfect wine to grow the region into an internationally recognized top wine region. Does Jules pick up on any of that on her own? No!
Lance manages to be kept to a minimum in this book. He's met someone and now he's acting different. He tries to conform to what he thinks the other man wants him to be which is interesting. He never struck me as that type before. It was funny to see and different. It makes Lance more likable to know he's normal like everyone else when it comes to romance. At least it makes him more like Jules. His interest in murders though makes me want to slap him. The Professor is so calm and incredibly smart. I think he's already suspicious of what The Wizard may have seen that led to his death but who did it is eluding him so far. Thomas is so sweet. There's one cringy scene I had to skip because Juliet is dumb and misreads the situation. I like his sense of humor and how he can adapt to new situations. Kerry is great. She's adapting slowly to Ashland ways but still a tough cop. I'm sure she can solve this case on her own without the help of Jules and Lance.
Jules' mom, Helen, is lovely as always and has great advice for her daughter. I don't get Richard Lord and why he is so paranoid. I understand why he might hold a grudge against Helen but I don't understand why he's always paranoid about Jules or why he has to copy all her ideas and try to ruin her. Even knowing his backstory it doesn't make sense. The young staff have truly come into their own, especially Sterling and Andy. Sterling has always been a wise, old soul but now he's grown up more and becoming more confident. He's now willing to share his ideas with Jules and knows how she thinks. Andy, too, is more confident. He's turning 21 and eager to be thought of as an adult. He's truly showing that maturity in the way he thinks about his coffee drinks and how he too has big plans he knows Jules will fall in with. It's sweet how well they know her and how passionate they are about Torte's growth and making the brand the best it can be.
There are very few new characters here so it wasn't that hard to compile a suspect list. The victim, known as The Wizard, is a homeless man with mental health problems. He rides a bike through town wearing a cape and sometimes doing little magic tricks like making balloon animals to make people smile. He's never caused trouble or done anything harmful as far as anyone knows. The police aren't even sure he's in the system. He certainly didn't deserve enmity and hatred, let alone be murdered. This death is a major tragedy and truly in Ashlandlike. The Wizard has a friend, Sky, another homeless man with paranoia and mental health issues, who may have seen what happened to The Wizard. He's unstable though and no one knows if he's reliable. He fears the killer is out to get him but is it possible he murdered his friend for some reason known only to him? I don't think so. I think he's running scared for a reason!
The only person I don't think is a killer is Laney, Jules's friend. She owns a Hawaiian street food truck and parks it by the railroad tracks. She's the only one in the neighborhood keeping an eye out for The Wizard and trying to take care of him. Is there a reason for that or is she merely a caring sort of person? In contrast, Addie, is portrayed as an entitled, witchy Millenial who wants things her way or the highway. She's very intense for a yoga instructor and super rude. I'm not sure this young woman has a caring bone in her body because she is totally against helping an injured homeless man! That's truly horrid. She really, really hates The Wizard but why? What did he ever do to her? That's the mystery. She sure has enough anger to be a murderer that's for certain. Another person with anger management issues is Hunter. He seems to have a lot of pent up anger and directs it towards The Wizard. He blames the homeless man for vandalizing his bike shop and stealing from him. Um The Wizard has been riding a normal bike since before the shop opened and not an electric bike and how and where would he get the spraypaint? It's obvious he doesn't have the ability to reason well enough to even do graffiti. Also, Jules is smart enough to point out that graffiti artists usually have a signature style. I think this Hunter person isn't used to Ashland ways and doesn't understand the character of the town. I also think his anger is misplaced. He's scary when he's in a temper and if I were Jules, I would pull out of my lease.
Hunter has a son, Lars, who hangs out with a crowd of hoodlums who prefer to ride skateboards to going to school. Lars is a punk kid who doesn't respect rules, boundaries or anything else. Could he have killed The Wizard if The Wizard saw him doing something he wasn't supposed to? The clues do seem to point in that direction. Then there's Dean, the organic dairy farmer Sterling convinces Jules to hire. I don't understand why Jules didn't go out there with Sterling to look at the farm. She takes on a deal with Dean on Sterling's say so. Dean delivers milk around town on his bicycle and seems to be another person who has it out for the homeless men. Why is he so angry at them? He seems very interested in everyone else's business. What's his deal? I think I know what it is. There are numerous obvious clues but Sterling is a good judge of character and checked this guy out so maybe he's just another newcomer who doesn't understand the laid back hippie vibe of the town?
I'm not going back to any of the others I missed. I'll go forward with the newest one to see how that goes. I'm looking forward to that one. It sounds different.
December 2, 2020
Chilled to the Cone, the 12th book in the Bakeshop Mystery series is a delicious addition to a wonderful series. I continue to return to Ashland and the Bakeshop Mystery series for the characters. By now, when I pick up each book it is like visiting with old friends and catching up on what's new in their lives. However, just because this is the 12th book in the series doesn't mean that the author doesn't have a few surprises in store for us in terms of character growth. Fans are going to be thrilled with the changes in several of the relationships and we finally get a resolution to Jules and Carlos' relationship. I have to admit, based on previous books I thought I know how Ms. Alexander was going to resolve their relationship, but as I said she still can surprise her readers with where she takes the characters.
The mystery was engaging. There are a few viable suspects to choose from and the clues are laid out nicely. I have to say, I did have the killer on my radar but it didn't detract from the enjoyment, and frankly, it's nice for me to be right every once in a while.
This is a really terrific series, and I will continue to return to Ashland and Torte for as long as the author continues to write the series. Fans of the series won't want to miss this sweet treat, which is scheduled to be released on December 29th.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, St. Martin's Press, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The mystery was engaging. There are a few viable suspects to choose from and the clues are laid out nicely. I have to say, I did have the killer on my radar but it didn't detract from the enjoyment, and frankly, it's nice for me to be right every once in a while.
This is a really terrific series, and I will continue to return to Ashland and Torte for as long as the author continues to write the series. Fans of the series won't want to miss this sweet treat, which is scheduled to be released on December 29th.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, St. Martin's Press, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 13, 2021
I definitely enjoyed this one better than the last - we're back to why I love this series so much - the relationships between all the characters in the present. While the recurring characters really drive the story, some of the new ones added in this one were just as delightful. Which makes it somewhat easier to figure out whodunit. Also, while I love the recipes and the descriptions of all the wonderful desserts, the step-by-step instructions that take up pages of the chapter are a little much. Still, visiting Ashland and Torte again was a welcome experience and I look forward to the next one.
October 2, 2021
4.5 stars
Chilled to the Cone is the 12th book in the series and is an interesting, fun, feel good addition to the series.
Torte is unexpectedly considering obtaining a small garden stand in the Railroad District with the plan to offer ice cream and a few select coffees. Though it requires fairly extensive renovations, along with some serious sweat equity, it seems to be too good a deal to pass up. However, not all of the neighbors seem to be quite so welcoming. When a beloved homeless man is threatened, sides are drawn and Jules finds herself in the middle of the conflict. Additionally, she’s concerned that her significant other, Carlos, seems to be taking some secret meetings and Jules questions whether he can happily make a hone in Ashland, or if there love is doomed.
There is a lot going on in this cozy mystery. Not only is the homeless topic raised, and some commentary on child-raising, but we also have developments in several romantic relationships. The author ties all the elements together seamlessly and they serve to give the story momentum. I’m so glad Ellie chose to move the plot forward, relationship-wise, rather than keeping certain elements in a constant state of flux and indecision.
The mystery is definitely interesting, as is the topics that are raised, but the relationship development in this story is what gives it that special added touch, and makes it a truly feel-good story and a memorable at that.
Chilled to the Cone is the 12th book in the series and is an interesting, fun, feel good addition to the series.
Torte is unexpectedly considering obtaining a small garden stand in the Railroad District with the plan to offer ice cream and a few select coffees. Though it requires fairly extensive renovations, along with some serious sweat equity, it seems to be too good a deal to pass up. However, not all of the neighbors seem to be quite so welcoming. When a beloved homeless man is threatened, sides are drawn and Jules finds herself in the middle of the conflict. Additionally, she’s concerned that her significant other, Carlos, seems to be taking some secret meetings and Jules questions whether he can happily make a hone in Ashland, or if there love is doomed.
There is a lot going on in this cozy mystery. Not only is the homeless topic raised, and some commentary on child-raising, but we also have developments in several romantic relationships. The author ties all the elements together seamlessly and they serve to give the story momentum. I’m so glad Ellie chose to move the plot forward, relationship-wise, rather than keeping certain elements in a constant state of flux and indecision.
The mystery is definitely interesting, as is the topics that are raised, but the relationship development in this story is what gives it that special added touch, and makes it a truly feel-good story and a memorable at that.
January 10, 2021
"Chilled to the Cone" was an easy book to pick up and get into quickly. I have not read any other books in this series, but it took very little time to get into the plot. The storyline moved quickly and I really enjoyed meeting these characters. I do want to go back and catch up on the series!
I particularly enjoyed the relationship Juliet had with her employees. And the food! I was drooling. It sounded so delicious!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I particularly enjoyed the relationship Juliet had with her employees. And the food! I was drooling. It sounded so delicious!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 8, 2021
Another fun read in a good long running series. Anyone who loves cozies that revolve around food will be in heaven. Besides all the wonderful pastries, cakes, bread, pizza and soup, Torte is opening a seasonal location with ice cream, coffee and milkshakes. All goes well until a local homeless person is killed near her new location, Jules is on the case, so there will be plenty of action and lots of appearances by some of our favorite folks!
January 9, 2021
I missed going to Ashland last year which made Chilled to the Cone that much sweeter. The Bakeshop Mysteries are the next best thing to being there. The author does a great job of developing the characters and keeping things fresh. The writing never feels too formulaic. It is another delicious installment in the series and I look forward to the next book this summer.
August 28, 2021
The story continues in the most wonderful of ways! Things are not going the way I had originally wanted for Jules but this series is so amazing and so well written that I can't help but be so happy for her. I felt like the mystery solving was less the main part of the story this time but I still loved every word of it! On to the next one!
December 16, 2024
Another great entry with lots of great changes happening in Ashland. I enjoyed being in the railroad district and seeing the start of Scoops, hopefully we get a book with it being opened. I loved all the changes going on in all the characters personal lives, it's so exciting to see them all changing and growing.
April 15, 2021
Chilled to the Cone is the twelfth book in Ellie Alexander's Bakeshop Mystery series, and it continues to be a great series. In this story, Jules and her mom have an opportunity to launch a pop-up ice cream shop in the Railroad District. They decide it is the perfect time to showcase their cold drinks and ice-cream desserts. Just before opening, Jules and a friend stumble upon a dead body on the railroad tracks. It is the man known as "The Wizard" a homeless street performer who wouldn't harm anyone. She is also dealing with Carlos being back in town and trying to decide once and for all where their marriage is going. With things happening to and around Torte 2.0, this case comes close to home for Jules.
This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series, and I always look forward to spending some time with Jules and the gang. I always enjoy seeing what Jules gets up to, but I really liked how this book gave us some great experiences in the lives of some of the secondary characters. The mystery is well-written and I enjoyed watching Jules try to juggle everything. There were several suspects, but the culprit was on my list. I was not sure of the motive, but once all was revealed, it made sense to me. This story has an additional plot involving homelessness and mental health issues. Ellie Alexander handled this with sensitivity and understanding, bringing awareness to some serious issues. Definitely a book and series that I continue to recommend. The audiobook was narrated by Emily Durante who once again delivered a great performance. She is the voice of this series and always adds to my enjoyment of the book.
This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series, and I always look forward to spending some time with Jules and the gang. I always enjoy seeing what Jules gets up to, but I really liked how this book gave us some great experiences in the lives of some of the secondary characters. The mystery is well-written and I enjoyed watching Jules try to juggle everything. There were several suspects, but the culprit was on my list. I was not sure of the motive, but once all was revealed, it made sense to me. This story has an additional plot involving homelessness and mental health issues. Ellie Alexander handled this with sensitivity and understanding, bringing awareness to some serious issues. Definitely a book and series that I continue to recommend. The audiobook was narrated by Emily Durante who once again delivered a great performance. She is the voice of this series and always adds to my enjoyment of the book.
July 26, 2021
In Chilled to the Cone, Andy, Sterling and the rest of the Torte team convince Jules to open a seasonal Torte location in another part of Ashland. The Railroad District area isn't far from Torte itself, but the people the small location will serve are different. The team comes up with the name Scoops and plans to serve ice cream concrete, cold coffee, pre-made sandwiches, and cold pasta salad. Jules and her mom, Helen, even allow Andy and Sterling to take the lead on the new location, including designing and running it. But before they even get ready to open, they face challenges and obstacles. A beloved member of the community is found dead near the new location. Could his death have been a result of mistaken identity? Was he killed for something he knew? Or was it a crime of passion? One thing is for sure, Jules plans to find out.
Unfortunately, I think too much has happened in the previous books to say that Chilled to the Cone is a standalone read. I think readers of this series will be happy with the direction Ellie is taking it. I’m a romance girl at heart, and my little heart was beyond happy with all the romance this story provided. On the mystery front, I loved all the misdirects and red herrings Ellie included. She had me guessing right up until the big reveal. Ellie Alexander is a wonderful author, and her Bakeshop Mystery series is one of my favorite series. The characters are all people I wish were real, that I know and can visit with. I’m looking forward to more books in this series.
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed the book.**
Unfortunately, I think too much has happened in the previous books to say that Chilled to the Cone is a standalone read. I think readers of this series will be happy with the direction Ellie is taking it. I’m a romance girl at heart, and my little heart was beyond happy with all the romance this story provided. On the mystery front, I loved all the misdirects and red herrings Ellie included. She had me guessing right up until the big reveal. Ellie Alexander is a wonderful author, and her Bakeshop Mystery series is one of my favorite series. The characters are all people I wish were real, that I know and can visit with. I’m looking forward to more books in this series.
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed the book.**
December 4, 2020
I love the Bakeshop Mysteries. The series has always been one of my favorites. Book 11 was a huge disappointment to me, though, and Chilled to the Cone, Book 12, started out slowly. At 11% in, I wrote a note to myself: "Are we ever going to get to a freaking story?" Because it was just a whole lot of background and business stuff up to that point. (And I do LIKE the business side of most cozy series!)
The murder doesn't occur until about a quarter of the way into the book, which is taking it too slow, to me.
Once things start happening, though, the story improves, and I'm reminded why I enjoy this series. The relationships, the touches of humor, the plotting, the setting, the community. I do wish that the author didn't feel the need to occasionally lecture the reader on baking techniques, and it would be nice if, for example, one of Andy's creations occasionally WASN'T amazing. Just for a tiny taste of reality, ya know.
All that said, when I got the review copy of this title, it moved straight to the top of my TBR pile. I couldn't wait to see what Jules and the gang were up to, and I'll be eagerly looking forward to the next one.
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The murder doesn't occur until about a quarter of the way into the book, which is taking it too slow, to me.
Once things start happening, though, the story improves, and I'm reminded why I enjoy this series. The relationships, the touches of humor, the plotting, the setting, the community. I do wish that the author didn't feel the need to occasionally lecture the reader on baking techniques, and it would be nice if, for example, one of Andy's creations occasionally WASN'T amazing. Just for a tiny taste of reality, ya know.
All that said, when I got the review copy of this title, it moved straight to the top of my TBR pile. I couldn't wait to see what Jules and the gang were up to, and I'll be eagerly looking forward to the next one.
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2025
Whew! Back on track with this series and still loving it. I read this one in about a day. There's a mostly beloved homeless man in Jules' town. When he is found dead, a lot of the town springs into action to see if someone caused his death or not. There's some new characters who I like. A lot of chapters with the characters I already liked. This book kept me engaged the whole time. I didn't want to put it down. Definitely recommend this one. Happy reading! 🍦🍨
October 16, 2020
I adore this series so much (and I'm not much of a fan of cozy mysteries) and this one did not disappoint. More to come.
Thanks to the publisher for the advance digital reading copy.
Thanks to the publisher for the advance digital reading copy.
December 27, 2020
Chilled to the Cone by Ellie Alexander takes us back to Ashland and to Torte where the expansion has settled and business is good. Carlos has returned to try to make their marriage a reality again and is running that winery that she and Lance had invested in. Life was good when her friend Laney arrived to announce that she had found the perfect opportunity for Jules in a outdoor/garden space in the up-and- coming Railroad District where she parked her food truck. It needed work but was perfect for their concretes and cold drinks, with maybe a few baked goods. Jules, Andy, and Sterling took off to see it and agreed. It needed work, mostly elbow grease, but could really be something. Since it would be seasonal it would be easy to hire part-time help to staff it and fill in at Torte. Then things started happening down there. Graffiti, theft, and then, a murder. It was a homeless man who had been riding his bike around for years, entertaining people. Why would someone do such a thing?
This whole gang is lovable and interesting. Sterling and Stephanie are moving forward in their relationship; Jules' mom and the Professor are very happy and the professor is thinking of retirement; Carlos is a hand and Jules loves him more than every, but is worried he misses the cruise ship too much, and Lance may have fallen for someone. As always the crime comes together and allows the correct people to pay for their crimes. All out friends are working and living and are well. Alexander has a good series here and a good book in this one. One of its themes is the way a portion of the population feels about homeless people and tens to blame things on them, often unjustly. Her characters show growth and movement, which keeps them relevant. Good book. Worth the read. Start at the beginning, if you have time. I recommend.
I was invited to read a free ARC of Chilled to the Cone by Netgalley. All opinions contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #chilledtothecone
This whole gang is lovable and interesting. Sterling and Stephanie are moving forward in their relationship; Jules' mom and the Professor are very happy and the professor is thinking of retirement; Carlos is a hand and Jules loves him more than every, but is worried he misses the cruise ship too much, and Lance may have fallen for someone. As always the crime comes together and allows the correct people to pay for their crimes. All out friends are working and living and are well. Alexander has a good series here and a good book in this one. One of its themes is the way a portion of the population feels about homeless people and tens to blame things on them, often unjustly. Her characters show growth and movement, which keeps them relevant. Good book. Worth the read. Start at the beginning, if you have time. I recommend.
I was invited to read a free ARC of Chilled to the Cone by Netgalley. All opinions contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #chilledtothecone
November 17, 2020
An absolute return to form for this series - Juliet opens an ice cream shop in Ashland and investigates the murder of a gentle but troubled soul.
The murder was so sad, so deeply sad, and I was afraid I wasn't going to love this book as much because of it. Usually, loathsome characters nobody likes end up dead and I couldn't care less but the victim here is really hard to stomach. That being said, this book is full of gorgeous recipes, new lattes, ice cream extravaganzas, secondary characters who find love and happiness in many different ways (go Lance!). I do love that Juliet's business is growing so much and she's evolving so much as a character too - her romance with Carlos takes a very unexpected turn here and I couldn't be happier. What a lovely book, and since I'm one of those weird people who enjoys ice cream in the middle of winter, I think it's the perfect release this time of year. Happy holiday season, everybody!
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My endless thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this advanced copy. I've read all of the Bakeshop Mystery books and will buy a copy when it's released but thank you for not prolonging the agony!
The murder was so sad, so deeply sad, and I was afraid I wasn't going to love this book as much because of it. Usually, loathsome characters nobody likes end up dead and I couldn't care less but the victim here is really hard to stomach. That being said, this book is full of gorgeous recipes, new lattes, ice cream extravaganzas, secondary characters who find love and happiness in many different ways (go Lance!). I do love that Juliet's business is growing so much and she's evolving so much as a character too - her romance with Carlos takes a very unexpected turn here and I couldn't be happier. What a lovely book, and since I'm one of those weird people who enjoys ice cream in the middle of winter, I think it's the perfect release this time of year. Happy holiday season, everybody!
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My endless thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this advanced copy. I've read all of the Bakeshop Mystery books and will buy a copy when it's released but thank you for not prolonging the agony!
January 5, 2021
Renovating Torte, the bake shop owned by Jules Caps had and het mother, is complete and a huge success. So when the opportunity to open an adjunct site for Torte focusing on ice cream arises, Jules steps up to the challenge. One of her most basic personality components is kindness and caring for everyone from her family, staff and friends to an eccentric homeless man nicknamed Wizard. When the Wizard is found dead, Jules is thrown into figuring out what happened. The characters in this series are always engaging and the mystery in this book is even a little stronger than a few of the latest ones. Even though you can read this as a standalone, you would miss out on the charming interplay and growth among the characters. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2023
Another great entry in this series. I went a little out of order this time, but it didn't make a difference in my ability to follow what was going on. The mystery itself could easily be a stand alone but I do think it is necessary to read prior books to understand what's happening in Jules' personal life. I love that Jules is always up for a challenge with her business. She's considering expanding Torte once again, this time to set up an ice cream shop near the Railroad District in Ashland. Unfortunately a homeless man called The Wizard, known to and beloved by the entire town, is killed nearby and no one can figure out why. I did guess the culprit but this was still enjoyable. Love is definitely in the air for many of the characters, adding to the fun.
May 23, 2021
This is a great series. A cozy mystery set in a small town in Oregon where Juliet has a bakeshop.
Juliet decides to take over another space that is smaller on the other side of town for an ice cream and cold coffee area outdoors. No sooner does she start to get the space cleaned up than someone is murdered nearby.
The "Wizard" has been killed, he was a harmless homeless guy in town.
Juliet and Lance, her best friend who heads the theatre in town go sleuthing once again!
Lots of great characters and family relationships that make the series a lot of fun!
Juliet decides to take over another space that is smaller on the other side of town for an ice cream and cold coffee area outdoors. No sooner does she start to get the space cleaned up than someone is murdered nearby.
The "Wizard" has been killed, he was a harmless homeless guy in town.
Juliet and Lance, her best friend who heads the theatre in town go sleuthing once again!
Lots of great characters and family relationships that make the series a lot of fun!
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