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Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery #2
Murder Makes Scents
Stella Wright loves creating candles at her Nantucket store—and she also has a burning passion for justice. Now, after visiting a perfume conference, she must solve a vial crime...
Stella and her globe-trotting mom, Millie, have come home from a perfume industry conference in Paris, where their trip was marred by witnessing the stabbing death of a young man. It’s a relief for Stella to be back on her picturesque island, with the comforting company of her cat, Tinker. But lingering danger may have followed them back across the ocean.
After someone breaks into her candle store, the Wick & Flame, Stella starts feeling spooked. And just as things threaten to ignite, Millie suffers a blow to the head. Stella receives an anonymous note claiming that her mother smuggled a secret formula out of France—and threatening her life if it isn’t returned. Now Stella’s picked up the scent of a cold-hearted criminal and an intriguing puzzle, and things are about to get wicked...
Stella and her globe-trotting mom, Millie, have come home from a perfume industry conference in Paris, where their trip was marred by witnessing the stabbing death of a young man. It’s a relief for Stella to be back on her picturesque island, with the comforting company of her cat, Tinker. But lingering danger may have followed them back across the ocean.
After someone breaks into her candle store, the Wick & Flame, Stella starts feeling spooked. And just as things threaten to ignite, Millie suffers a blow to the head. Stella receives an anonymous note claiming that her mother smuggled a secret formula out of France—and threatening her life if it isn’t returned. Now Stella’s picked up the scent of a cold-hearted criminal and an intriguing puzzle, and things are about to get wicked...
7 pages, Audiobook
First published February 25, 2020
162 people are currently reading
707 people want to read
About the author
Christin Brecher
8 books365 followersVisit Christin's website at www.christinbrecher.com to learn more about the Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery series, and to sign up for the newsletter!
Christin Brecher was born and raised in New York City, where her family and many childhood friends still reside. As such, she feels she is as much of a small-town girl as any. The idea to write the Nantucket Candle Maker series sprang from her life-long connection to the small island off the coast of Massachusetts. Spending summers there as a child, Christin read from her family's library of mystery novels; after which she began to imagine stories inspired by the island's whaling heyday, its notoriously foggy nights, and during long bike rides to the beach. After many years in marketing for the publishing industry, followed by years raising her children, Murder's No Votive Confidence is Christin's debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
January 21, 2020
Stella Wright and her mother, Millie, are attending a perfume conference in Paris. Unfortunately, their fun trip turns into a nightmare when Stella witnesses the stabbing death of a young man. When they arrive home hours later, Stella is relieved and wants to put the murder behind her. But when her candle store, Wick and Flame, is broken into, she starts feeling paranoid. Then she receives an anonymous note claiming that her mother smuggled a mysterious vial out of Paris. The vial contains an international secret, and according to the note, Stella's mom will be killed if it isn't returned immediately. A determined Stella sets out to find the vial and protect her mother.
Murder Makes Scents by Christin Brecher is an entertaining and delightful read, with a lovely setting and a unique mystery. The story keeps a steady pace and contains enough action, suspects, and clues to keep you guessing until the reveal. Stella is a likable main character, and I enjoyed the candle making theme of the story. I'm not sure how I feel about her love interest, Peter. Andy and Stella have way more chemistry together and I think he's the better choice.
The synopsis of the third book,15 Minutes of Flame, sounds very intriguing and I look forward to reading it.
I received an ARC of this book from Kensington Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Murder Makes Scents by Christin Brecher is an entertaining and delightful read, with a lovely setting and a unique mystery. The story keeps a steady pace and contains enough action, suspects, and clues to keep you guessing until the reveal. Stella is a likable main character, and I enjoyed the candle making theme of the story. I'm not sure how I feel about her love interest, Peter. Andy and Stella have way more chemistry together and I think he's the better choice.
The synopsis of the third book,15 Minutes of Flame, sounds very intriguing and I look forward to reading it.
I received an ARC of this book from Kensington Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 1, 2022
Murder Makes Scents by Christin Brecher is the second book of the cozy Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery series. As with most cozy mysteries each book of this series does contain it’s own mystery to be solved so they can be read as a standalone or in any order if choosing to do so. There is character development that carries over from book to book for those that follow the series from the beginning.
The Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery series introduced readers to Stella Wright who lives in Nantucket and owns her own candle shop, the Wick & Flame. Stella sells candles in all kinds of scents looking to create the perfect candle for every customer coming into her small store.
Unfortunately for Stella she also had her first case of tracking down a murderer and hopes to never have to do that again. However when Stella and her mother are on their way home from Paris after attending a perfume industry conference they become witnesses to a stabbing. Soon home doesn’t feel safe anymore after what they saw and Stella needs to find out who could be threatening them.
Now having read the first two books of the Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery series I believe this series isn’t quite as humorous and quirky as I normally am drawn to. However, what it lacks in that area it makes up for in it’s setting being in Nantucket so I still feel drawn to reading this series. This second book for me fell in again at three and a half stars but I’m hoping now that I’m getting to know the characters I will enjoy the next even more.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery series introduced readers to Stella Wright who lives in Nantucket and owns her own candle shop, the Wick & Flame. Stella sells candles in all kinds of scents looking to create the perfect candle for every customer coming into her small store.
Unfortunately for Stella she also had her first case of tracking down a murderer and hopes to never have to do that again. However when Stella and her mother are on their way home from Paris after attending a perfume industry conference they become witnesses to a stabbing. Soon home doesn’t feel safe anymore after what they saw and Stella needs to find out who could be threatening them.
Now having read the first two books of the Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery series I believe this series isn’t quite as humorous and quirky as I normally am drawn to. However, what it lacks in that area it makes up for in it’s setting being in Nantucket so I still feel drawn to reading this series. This second book for me fell in again at three and a half stars but I’m hoping now that I’m getting to know the characters I will enjoy the next even more.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
August 24, 2020
Excellent cozy! It starts off in another country where a murder takes place then moves to the U.S. where plenty of exciting ‘spy type’ action takes place. The story held my attention from beginning to end, and I thought the plot was quite original! I’m looking forward to the third book in the series.
February 26, 2020
Stella Wright is taking a break from the Wick & Flame, her candle shop on Nantucket, to attend a perfume conference in Paris with her mother, Millie, who is one of the speakers. The conference ends abruptly, however, when Stella and Millie are part of a crowd that witnesses a man being stabbed right in front of them. After being questioned by the police, they return home to the island, assuming their only connection to the crime is behind them. Stella quickly begins to think that trouble has followed them home. Is she correct? What might their connection to the murder be?
When I first heard this book was going to start in Paris and move the action to Nantucket, I was worried the author wouldn’t be able to pull it off. From the pacing standpoint, I didn’t have any issues with this book since the story picked up quickly. The book uses a MacGuffin to ignite the plot, and that’s where my issue was. I just couldn’t buy into it. Having said that, I still found the story compelling since the stakes were personal for Stella. I flew through the book in a couple of days because I had to know what was going on. The climax is a bit over the top, but it fits the plot well. Due to the nature of the story, we don’t see as much of the supporting cast from the original, but the new characters more than make up for it. They are perfect at being suspicious without being obviously the villain. Unfortunately, there are also a few timelines issues in the story, but nothing that affects the plot, just stuff that annoys me. We get some tips for making candle molds and a delicious sounding cranberry pie recipe at the end of the book. Even with my issues, I was glad I read this book.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
When I first heard this book was going to start in Paris and move the action to Nantucket, I was worried the author wouldn’t be able to pull it off. From the pacing standpoint, I didn’t have any issues with this book since the story picked up quickly. The book uses a MacGuffin to ignite the plot, and that’s where my issue was. I just couldn’t buy into it. Having said that, I still found the story compelling since the stakes were personal for Stella. I flew through the book in a couple of days because I had to know what was going on. The climax is a bit over the top, but it fits the plot well. Due to the nature of the story, we don’t see as much of the supporting cast from the original, but the new characters more than make up for it. They are perfect at being suspicious without being obviously the villain. Unfortunately, there are also a few timelines issues in the story, but nothing that affects the plot, just stuff that annoys me. We get some tips for making candle molds and a delicious sounding cranberry pie recipe at the end of the book. Even with my issues, I was glad I read this book.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
March 7, 2020
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Stella Wright met up with her mom, Millie in Paris for a perfume conference. Right before Millie was supposed to speak a young man was stabbed right in front of them. After waiting to give the authorities the statements they just make their flight back to the states. Stella, happy to be home on Nantucket. Peter meets the ferry and he brought her cat Tinker along. Millie is allergic to cats so while she is staying with Stella, Tinker will be hanging out at her store, The Wick & Flame.
Stella finds herself spending the night at her store too, antsy about the murder she witnessed but also because it is impossible to sleep with Millie’s snoring. When she arrives she thinks that Tinker has been a very naughty kitty and made a huge mess. But then she realizes someone has broken into her store looking for something. Just as she is falling asleep, she hears the bell on her door and realizes she and Tinker hadn’t been alone.
When Millie gets injured in a freaky happenstance she ends up in the hospital and Stella learns someone from France has followed them home, Millie has something extremely important that they want. In an effort to save her mother Stella starts her quest to find the missing item and a killer. She is amazed by where her investigation leads.
Christin Brecher brings some international flair to this compelling mystery. This time Scents play a leading role.
The murder takes place in Paris but the majority of the story takes place on Nantucket. The author’s descriptive detail brings both settings clearly into focus.
The core characters we met in Murder’s No Votive Confidence are back. Police Officer Andy remains Stella’s best friend while Peter has moved into the boyfriend zone. I really enjoy the banter between Stella and her mom. Millie scent talents are just amazing and Stella’s are pretty darn good too. This is important because their noses can save an international incident from happening.
We do meet several new characters and most of them become suspects. Stella really doesn’t trust anyone new to the island, including Millie’s high school friends that have come together for a reunion. She is also concerned when a boarding school teacher they met in Paris unexpectedly shows up on their doorstep. Stella is troubled by another woman she noticed when they arrived on the ferry that was acting suspiciously too. There is even a mystery man lurking around town, Stella definitely has her work cut out for her. I enjoyed the way all the characters, old and new developed over the course of the story.
The mystery this time was not typical for a cozy mystery and a little unbelievable at times but it sure was fun to read and follow Stella through her grand adventure. Intrigue, action, and an elusive killer all come together tempered with a generous amount of humor to make this story so entertaining. It is full of unexpected twists and is very fast-paced.
Murder Makes Scents is well-plotted and written and an excellent follow-up to Murder’s No Votive Confidence. The international espionage theme may be a little over the top, but for me, it was a Perfect Escape!
Stella Wright met up with her mom, Millie in Paris for a perfume conference. Right before Millie was supposed to speak a young man was stabbed right in front of them. After waiting to give the authorities the statements they just make their flight back to the states. Stella, happy to be home on Nantucket. Peter meets the ferry and he brought her cat Tinker along. Millie is allergic to cats so while she is staying with Stella, Tinker will be hanging out at her store, The Wick & Flame.
Stella finds herself spending the night at her store too, antsy about the murder she witnessed but also because it is impossible to sleep with Millie’s snoring. When she arrives she thinks that Tinker has been a very naughty kitty and made a huge mess. But then she realizes someone has broken into her store looking for something. Just as she is falling asleep, she hears the bell on her door and realizes she and Tinker hadn’t been alone.
When Millie gets injured in a freaky happenstance she ends up in the hospital and Stella learns someone from France has followed them home, Millie has something extremely important that they want. In an effort to save her mother Stella starts her quest to find the missing item and a killer. She is amazed by where her investigation leads.
Christin Brecher brings some international flair to this compelling mystery. This time Scents play a leading role.
The murder takes place in Paris but the majority of the story takes place on Nantucket. The author’s descriptive detail brings both settings clearly into focus.
The core characters we met in Murder’s No Votive Confidence are back. Police Officer Andy remains Stella’s best friend while Peter has moved into the boyfriend zone. I really enjoy the banter between Stella and her mom. Millie scent talents are just amazing and Stella’s are pretty darn good too. This is important because their noses can save an international incident from happening.
We do meet several new characters and most of them become suspects. Stella really doesn’t trust anyone new to the island, including Millie’s high school friends that have come together for a reunion. She is also concerned when a boarding school teacher they met in Paris unexpectedly shows up on their doorstep. Stella is troubled by another woman she noticed when they arrived on the ferry that was acting suspiciously too. There is even a mystery man lurking around town, Stella definitely has her work cut out for her. I enjoyed the way all the characters, old and new developed over the course of the story.
The mystery this time was not typical for a cozy mystery and a little unbelievable at times but it sure was fun to read and follow Stella through her grand adventure. Intrigue, action, and an elusive killer all come together tempered with a generous amount of humor to make this story so entertaining. It is full of unexpected twists and is very fast-paced.
Murder Makes Scents is well-plotted and written and an excellent follow-up to Murder’s No Votive Confidence. The international espionage theme may be a little over the top, but for me, it was a Perfect Escape!
January 19, 2020
This is the second book in the Nantucket Candle Maker series and I found it to be as enjoyable as the first. Ms. Brecher takes Stella and her mother from Paris to Nantucket on an adventure that inadvertently involves international espionage. For the second book in a series, I can see how some may find the storyline too fantastical, but I thought that given Stella's mom's over-the-top personality and adventures that it did fit the characters. With a lot of new people in Nantucket, there were plenty of suspects to chose from and the author did a nice job of providing plausible clues and twists for each of the suspects. While I was not surprised by the identity of the killer, this person was not so obvious to me that they were at the top of my list.
I like the characters in this series and think there is a lot of potential for Stella, her friends, and her family. With the addition of her mother, I think that the author provides the possibility for many more adventures, some of which could take place outside Nantucket. I especially like Tinker, Stella's cat, and her mother's reaction to him. I think he plans to make a new friend despite her protests to the contrary.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through Netgalley.
I like the characters in this series and think there is a lot of potential for Stella, her friends, and her family. With the addition of her mother, I think that the author provides the possibility for many more adventures, some of which could take place outside Nantucket. I especially like Tinker, Stella's cat, and her mother's reaction to him. I think he plans to make a new friend despite her protests to the contrary.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through Netgalley.
June 28, 2020
I enjoyed learning about the history and development of candle scents and candlemaking methods. I've also always wanted to travel to Nantucket and the book did a wonderful job of transporting me there. The descriptions were so detailed, especially of the houses, and I felt like I was right "on island" with the characters. The anticipation of landing with the ferry reminded me of the times I've spent on Ocracoke Island, NC.
The plot, however, was just too unrealistic for me. Yes, I was waiting for the stabbing in Paris to make its way to Nantucket. However, when a secret agent for our government confides international secrets to a cozy character, then threatens her with treason.. it made it difficult for me to finish the book. But it was very well-written and for that reason, I would read the next installment of this series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for an ARC. My review is voluntary.
The plot, however, was just too unrealistic for me. Yes, I was waiting for the stabbing in Paris to make its way to Nantucket. However, when a secret agent for our government confides international secrets to a cozy character, then threatens her with treason.. it made it difficult for me to finish the book. But it was very well-written and for that reason, I would read the next installment of this series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for an ARC. My review is voluntary.
January 24, 2020
Stella and her mother Millie are on a whirlwind adventure in Paris, but when Stella sees a man die in front of her, she can't wait to get back to her quaint Nantucket Island.
Stella and her mother have a lot in common, which includes their love of scents. Stella perfects her prized scents in the Wick & Flame, her candle shop located on Nantucket Island, and her mother is a well known perfumer, who travels to the Amazon to find unique scents.
It is their love of scents that have them in Paris, Millie is giving a lecture on her travels to the Amazon, and Stella joins her, never one to pass up on a wonderful trip.
A loud cry sets off the beginning of this intense whodunit. When Stella sees a man drop dead in front of her, she is curious to why this has happened, but returning to her home and her beau are top priority for her.
Upon their return, Stella becomes involved in an investigation that seems to far fetched to believe. Hidden codes in a scent vial, a mysterious woman who prefers to be unknown, and a few tourists who have their own agendas are just a few of the snags Stella is up against.
I really enjoyed this story. It had me hooked from the first few lines and I was glued to the pages until the very end.
This story is full of unique characters, a cozy themed candle shop, and of course a great mystery that will keep the reader engaged until the end.
I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
#MurderMakesScents #NetGalley
Stella and her mother have a lot in common, which includes their love of scents. Stella perfects her prized scents in the Wick & Flame, her candle shop located on Nantucket Island, and her mother is a well known perfumer, who travels to the Amazon to find unique scents.
It is their love of scents that have them in Paris, Millie is giving a lecture on her travels to the Amazon, and Stella joins her, never one to pass up on a wonderful trip.
A loud cry sets off the beginning of this intense whodunit. When Stella sees a man drop dead in front of her, she is curious to why this has happened, but returning to her home and her beau are top priority for her.
Upon their return, Stella becomes involved in an investigation that seems to far fetched to believe. Hidden codes in a scent vial, a mysterious woman who prefers to be unknown, and a few tourists who have their own agendas are just a few of the snags Stella is up against.
I really enjoyed this story. It had me hooked from the first few lines and I was glued to the pages until the very end.
This story is full of unique characters, a cozy themed candle shop, and of course a great mystery that will keep the reader engaged until the end.
I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
#MurderMakesScents #NetGalley
August 2, 2020
This second installment starts with Stella in Paris with her Mom to attend The World Perfumery Conference. On their last day, they saw a man collapsed with a knife in his back. Never expecting that this murder will follow them to Nantucket.
There were some unbelievable scenes like when the secret agent just easily spilled the beans about the operation. I was like, do they really do that? But I still enjoyed it. And hey! I guess who the bad guy is this time. There were a lot of suspects but I had a feeling earlier on he was the one.
I love love Tinker. Very cute cat. And I really don't know how to feel about Peter and Stella. I am more into the mystery than the idea of them. I just don't feel the chemistry at all. But if Peter's a good guy, why not? I might get aboard in the next book.
There were some unbelievable scenes like when the secret agent just easily spilled the beans about the operation. I was like, do they really do that? But I still enjoyed it. And hey! I guess who the bad guy is this time. There were a lot of suspects but I had a feeling earlier on he was the one.
I love love Tinker. Very cute cat. And I really don't know how to feel about Peter and Stella. I am more into the mystery than the idea of them. I just don't feel the chemistry at all. But if Peter's a good guy, why not? I might get aboard in the next book.
January 19, 2020
This is a great book. I was hooked from the very beginning. It's a rollercoaster ride, from Paris to Nantucket a spy follows the main characters looking for a formula of scents. Anything and everything happens. You'll love it. #MurderMakesScents #NetGalley
September 3, 2021
I really liked the first book in this series and was not disappointed in the second!
Once again, we follow Stella Wright, a candle store owner, who at the beginning of the story has met up with her mother in Paris. In Paris, Stella and her mother attend a perfume industry conference that Millie (Stella's mom) will be presenting at. From fun to fear, Stella and her mother witness the murder of a young man at the conference and escape back to the comforts of Nantucket, MA where Stella is from. But, has the murder mystery traveled thousands of miles to the quiet seacoast town?
I enjoyed this quick page turner as Stella navigated a mystery with the help of some of her friends and family. I'm looking forward to the next and last book in the series!
Once again, we follow Stella Wright, a candle store owner, who at the beginning of the story has met up with her mother in Paris. In Paris, Stella and her mother attend a perfume industry conference that Millie (Stella's mom) will be presenting at. From fun to fear, Stella and her mother witness the murder of a young man at the conference and escape back to the comforts of Nantucket, MA where Stella is from. But, has the murder mystery traveled thousands of miles to the quiet seacoast town?
I enjoyed this quick page turner as Stella navigated a mystery with the help of some of her friends and family. I'm looking forward to the next and last book in the series!
March 5, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed book 1 in this series – Murder’s No Votive Confidence – but I think Murder Makes Scents is even better! I loved everything about this cozy mystery. The way the Nantucket setting was almost another character. The myriad of likely suspects. The elements of intrigue. The comedic moments. The plot itself.
Let’s start with Stella who I really love as a character. She and her mom have an interesting dynamic between them, due mainly to her mom’s somewhat outlandish and impetuous personality. Yet it’s clear they love each other with great affection and Millie’s eccentric ways factor in heavily to this particular plot so it’s easy to embrace her as part of the ambiance, so to speak lol. (And also, since we’re speaking of Stella, I am still pulling for her longtime best friend Andy to ultimately win her heart over her current beau Peter … who is a lovely man but I just think Andy loves her more deeply.)
The mystery is swirling with intrigue – with the actual murder taking place in Paris and following Stella and her mom back to Nantucket. Unwittingly drawn into a world of espionage and matters of global security, Stella has no shortage of people who make very viable suspects. The author does an excellent job of weaving credible red herrings and surprising twists throughout the plot and of course Stella is right in the middle of it. The element of the scents and candles in this series add extra layers to the plot – especially in this latest installment.
Bottom Line: Murder Makes Scents is entertaining and well-plotted, with colorful characters and a vibrant setting. The murder mystery is more multi-dimensional than it first appears – and I really enjoyed following Stella on the quest to save the day. Some of the layers may seem farfetched… but then again this is a cozy mystery and ‘farfetched’ is sorta part of the tried-and-true formula. I thought it definitely made sense in the broader picture and loved the unique aspects it added to the story. Looking forward to book 3!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Let’s start with Stella who I really love as a character. She and her mom have an interesting dynamic between them, due mainly to her mom’s somewhat outlandish and impetuous personality. Yet it’s clear they love each other with great affection and Millie’s eccentric ways factor in heavily to this particular plot so it’s easy to embrace her as part of the ambiance, so to speak lol. (And also, since we’re speaking of Stella, I am still pulling for her longtime best friend Andy to ultimately win her heart over her current beau Peter … who is a lovely man but I just think Andy loves her more deeply.)
The mystery is swirling with intrigue – with the actual murder taking place in Paris and following Stella and her mom back to Nantucket. Unwittingly drawn into a world of espionage and matters of global security, Stella has no shortage of people who make very viable suspects. The author does an excellent job of weaving credible red herrings and surprising twists throughout the plot and of course Stella is right in the middle of it. The element of the scents and candles in this series add extra layers to the plot – especially in this latest installment.
Bottom Line: Murder Makes Scents is entertaining and well-plotted, with colorful characters and a vibrant setting. The murder mystery is more multi-dimensional than it first appears – and I really enjoyed following Stella on the quest to save the day. Some of the layers may seem farfetched… but then again this is a cozy mystery and ‘farfetched’ is sorta part of the tried-and-true formula. I thought it definitely made sense in the broader picture and loved the unique aspects it added to the story. Looking forward to book 3!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
February 5, 2020
5 Stars
This is the second book in the Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery Series by Christin Breacher.
What a fun ride this was! Who knew you could take a candle maker and a mother who is a perfumer at heart and make them into international spies.
Stella and her mom are in Paris at a conference where her mother is going to give a talk on detecting fragrances when a man is stabbed practically in front of them. Without them noticing before he died the man shoved a perfumers bottle into Millie’s bag. This bottle is very important to the peace conference that is going on concurrently with the perfume conference. They return homer unaware of the danger they are in.
This book was quite a hoot. Brecher made me fall in love with a villain. I knew that dude was too good to be true. I loved the pairing of the candles, perfumes, scents and espionage. Right up my alley. I was only sorry because the story ended. I wanted to live in this world for a bit longer.
I had to laugh at the super secret agent lady who kept telling Stella she was in charge and yet the bad guy kept one-upping her and besting her at every turn. I think maybe she needs a new line of work.
Stella was taken in this story from the streets of Paris to Nantucket, from a candle shop to a jump from an airplane with an unworking chute. Just loved every single second of this story. I am totally hooked. Now I need to read book one and get really caught up!
If you love a good cozy mystery, you have to check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the second book in the Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery Series by Christin Breacher.
What a fun ride this was! Who knew you could take a candle maker and a mother who is a perfumer at heart and make them into international spies.
Stella and her mom are in Paris at a conference where her mother is going to give a talk on detecting fragrances when a man is stabbed practically in front of them. Without them noticing before he died the man shoved a perfumers bottle into Millie’s bag. This bottle is very important to the peace conference that is going on concurrently with the perfume conference. They return homer unaware of the danger they are in.
This book was quite a hoot. Brecher made me fall in love with a villain. I knew that dude was too good to be true. I loved the pairing of the candles, perfumes, scents and espionage. Right up my alley. I was only sorry because the story ended. I wanted to live in this world for a bit longer.
I had to laugh at the super secret agent lady who kept telling Stella she was in charge and yet the bad guy kept one-upping her and besting her at every turn. I think maybe she needs a new line of work.
Stella was taken in this story from the streets of Paris to Nantucket, from a candle shop to a jump from an airplane with an unworking chute. Just loved every single second of this story. I am totally hooked. Now I need to read book one and get really caught up!
If you love a good cozy mystery, you have to check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
February 27, 2020
Murder Makes Scents by Christin Brecher is the 2nd book in the Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery, and another great addition. Stella Wright owns a candle store, Wick & Flame, that specializes in unique design and scented candles. Stella and her mother Millie are attending a perfume conference in Paris, when Stella sees a man die right in front of her. Luckily Stella and her mom are able to return to Nantucket, and her store. When someone breaks into Stella store, they realize that danger has followed them home from Paris. This book is a quick read with a well developed plot and characters. I enjoyed the twists and turns around every corner. I really enjoyed this series, and this second book was even better than the first. I can't wait for the and next book in the series. I highly recommend this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 19, 2020
I loved that this book started in Paris then followed Stella and her mom home to Nantucket. It is nice to watch Parker and Stella's relationship progress and that Andy and her are staying close friends. This book was packed with even more adventure than the first one. I had a hard time putting this book down. I did not see the ending of who the killer was. I would not have thought it was that person so the author did a good job of throwing me off. I know he was a suspect of Stella's but not mine. I look forward to the next book in this series.
February 18, 2020
When they witness a murder at a perfume convention in Paris, the scene is set for our hometown candle store owner to find her mother and herself in the middle of an attempt on their lives. The mystery continues as Christin Brecher drops clues that bring the killer closer and closer to home. Cozy mystery lovers will recognize a fellow genre lover in Ms Brecher. A really good excuse to not to do the dinner dishes.
February 21, 2020
This second in series is fabulous, and it is a delight to be back on Nantucket Island! The setting, especially Stella's Wick and Flame candle shop, sounds beautiful, and I appreciated getting to know her friends and family better through their conversations and actions. And what pet can be better than Tinker, her beautiful cat, who seems to know what Stella looks for and helps her find it?
Stella and her mother Millie, a master perfumer, are in Paris for Millie's presentation at the world perfumery conference and will fly home after the panel she is on. They never make it there, however, as a man is killed in the reception area of the hotel where it is being held. With the knife sticking out of his back, he crawled out of a horrified circle of gawkers, made eye contact with Stella, then died. The conference was at an abrupt end, and the police investigation begins. Stella later learns that an international anarchist, Rex Lanuam, is responsible for the murder. The man he killed was a US govt agent sent to exchange vital documents regarding the Peace Jubilee with the French authorities. There is one little problem with Rex - nobody knows for sure what he looks like as he is a master of disguise.
Millie and Stella barely make their flight back to the States, then a ferry to Nantucket, where they have several surprises that evening. First, Millie meets an old high school friend on the ferry. Nathaniel was two years ahead of her, and is in town for a reunion with his classmate, Frank. Handsome and kind, Millie seems as smitten with him as he seems to be with her. Another classmate, Lennie, also comes into town for the party. Olive, a boarding school teacher from England that they met in Paris, took Millie up on her offer to visit Stella.Stella's cousin Chris and his wife have their first Airbnb customers, a couple from Canada.
All these visitors in autumn when the tourist season is almost past seems a bit odd, especially when Stella notices another stranger watching them from her yacht when the ferry came in, then watching the shop. It is horrifying when Stella finds out what is really going on. Millie and Nathaniel end up with concussions in the hospital, and Millie has lost much of her recent memory. And someone threatens Millie's life if Stella doesn't find a scent formula that was stashed in Millie's case of vials.
What a fabulous tale! There are many things i enjoyed about this compelling mystery. The plot twists and turns kept me on edge; it was hard to stay calm while watching events unfold. I was very pleased to see my one dismay from the first in series was changed. No matter what went on, I couldn't identify who the real bad guy/ gal might be! Some of the suspects looked very good at first, but just didn't seem to fit. The whodunit is stunning, as I just didn't see it coming. All loose ends are tied up, and I am looking forward to returning to Nantucket to visit Stella and Tinker soon! I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys well-written cozy mysteries with a Nantucket setting, a killer plot, delightful characters, and a fluffy cat named Tinker.
Stella and her mother Millie, a master perfumer, are in Paris for Millie's presentation at the world perfumery conference and will fly home after the panel she is on. They never make it there, however, as a man is killed in the reception area of the hotel where it is being held. With the knife sticking out of his back, he crawled out of a horrified circle of gawkers, made eye contact with Stella, then died. The conference was at an abrupt end, and the police investigation begins. Stella later learns that an international anarchist, Rex Lanuam, is responsible for the murder. The man he killed was a US govt agent sent to exchange vital documents regarding the Peace Jubilee with the French authorities. There is one little problem with Rex - nobody knows for sure what he looks like as he is a master of disguise.
Millie and Stella barely make their flight back to the States, then a ferry to Nantucket, where they have several surprises that evening. First, Millie meets an old high school friend on the ferry. Nathaniel was two years ahead of her, and is in town for a reunion with his classmate, Frank. Handsome and kind, Millie seems as smitten with him as he seems to be with her. Another classmate, Lennie, also comes into town for the party. Olive, a boarding school teacher from England that they met in Paris, took Millie up on her offer to visit Stella.Stella's cousin Chris and his wife have their first Airbnb customers, a couple from Canada.
All these visitors in autumn when the tourist season is almost past seems a bit odd, especially when Stella notices another stranger watching them from her yacht when the ferry came in, then watching the shop. It is horrifying when Stella finds out what is really going on. Millie and Nathaniel end up with concussions in the hospital, and Millie has lost much of her recent memory. And someone threatens Millie's life if Stella doesn't find a scent formula that was stashed in Millie's case of vials.
What a fabulous tale! There are many things i enjoyed about this compelling mystery. The plot twists and turns kept me on edge; it was hard to stay calm while watching events unfold. I was very pleased to see my one dismay from the first in series was changed. No matter what went on, I couldn't identify who the real bad guy/ gal might be! Some of the suspects looked very good at first, but just didn't seem to fit. The whodunit is stunning, as I just didn't see it coming. All loose ends are tied up, and I am looking forward to returning to Nantucket to visit Stella and Tinker soon! I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys well-written cozy mysteries with a Nantucket setting, a killer plot, delightful characters, and a fluffy cat named Tinker.
February 27, 2020
Murder Makes Scents, the second book in Christin Brecher’s Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery series, is a fun cozy mystery with international flair. From the streets of Paris to the cobblestones of Nantucket, we follow protagonist Stella Wright on the scent of a killer.
Stella Wright, proprietress of the Wick & Flame candle shop is in Paris, attending a perfume conference where her mother, Millie, is a featured speaker. Before Millie can deliver her presentation, however, a man is murdered, and the convention is disbanded. As eyewitnesses to the stabbing, Stella and Millie are questioned by the French police before returning to the U.S. Trouble soon follows, and, after a break-in at the Wick & Flame, it quickly becomes apparent that there is a connection between the incidents in Nantucket and the stabbing in Paris. When Millie becomes a target, Stella must use her wits (and the help of a few friends) to ferret out the perpetrator.
The plot – though a little fantastical at times – is consistently intriguing. A wealth of suspects, several of whom have followed Stella from France, with a wide variety of motives and misdirection, keep the reader guessing until the end. The intricacies of perfume- and candle-making are woven skillfully and unobtrusively into the plot. The characters, both old and new, are distinct and nuanced. The subplots involving Stella’s thirtieth birthday and her anticipation of furthering her relationship with Peter add a bit of levity and romance to the story. And her cat, Tinker, adds a bit of sass.
In the bonus material, Ms. Brecher includes some tips on candle making, a recipe for cranberry pie that sounds delicious, and a preview of the third book in the series, 15 Minutes of Flame, a Halloween-themed cozy that I definitely will be reading. All told, Murder Makes Scents is a fast-paced, highly entertaining installment in this charming mystery series.
Note: I received an ARC of Murder Makes Scents from NetGalley and Kensington Books. The above is my honest review.
Stella Wright, proprietress of the Wick & Flame candle shop is in Paris, attending a perfume conference where her mother, Millie, is a featured speaker. Before Millie can deliver her presentation, however, a man is murdered, and the convention is disbanded. As eyewitnesses to the stabbing, Stella and Millie are questioned by the French police before returning to the U.S. Trouble soon follows, and, after a break-in at the Wick & Flame, it quickly becomes apparent that there is a connection between the incidents in Nantucket and the stabbing in Paris. When Millie becomes a target, Stella must use her wits (and the help of a few friends) to ferret out the perpetrator.
The plot – though a little fantastical at times – is consistently intriguing. A wealth of suspects, several of whom have followed Stella from France, with a wide variety of motives and misdirection, keep the reader guessing until the end. The intricacies of perfume- and candle-making are woven skillfully and unobtrusively into the plot. The characters, both old and new, are distinct and nuanced. The subplots involving Stella’s thirtieth birthday and her anticipation of furthering her relationship with Peter add a bit of levity and romance to the story. And her cat, Tinker, adds a bit of sass.
In the bonus material, Ms. Brecher includes some tips on candle making, a recipe for cranberry pie that sounds delicious, and a preview of the third book in the series, 15 Minutes of Flame, a Halloween-themed cozy that I definitely will be reading. All told, Murder Makes Scents is a fast-paced, highly entertaining installment in this charming mystery series.
Note: I received an ARC of Murder Makes Scents from NetGalley and Kensington Books. The above is my honest review.
February 26, 2020
Murder Makes Sense by Christin Brecher has Stella Wright with her mother, Millie in Paris for The World Perfumery Conference. Before Millie gives her talk, they stop so she can check her materials one more time. A commotion breaks out and Stella sees a man with a knife in his back. Stella later learns that the killer was after sensitive information, but he eluded the gendarme. Millie and Stella return to Nantucket Island where Stella notices a woman on a yacht watching them through binoculars as they depart the ferry. Unable to sleep that night (Millie snores and hogs the bed), Stella heads to her shop to catch a cat nap with Tinker. Before she drifts off, she can hear the bell on the door. Someone had been in her shop, but Stella has no clue what they were after. While trying to escape the affectionate Tinker, Millie gets injured which requires an overnight stay at the local hospital. The next morning, Stella finds a threatening note on her door. The person wants a formula hidden in Millie’s special bag or they will harm Stella’s mother. Stella intends to unravel this malodourous puzzle and catch the guilty party. Murder Makes Sense is the second book in A Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery series. It can be read as a standalone if you have not picked up Murder’s No Votive Confidence. I like the characters and the setting of Nantucket Island. The story moved along steadily, and I liked the action that kept things lively. The mystery was unique for a cozy mystery which I just loved. There was intrigue, mysterious individuals, a special formula, international espionage and action. Your ability to solve this whodunit depends upon your sleuthing level. I like the humor sprinkled throughout (I love a book that makes me laugh). Tinker was a hoot. The author captured how a cat behaves perfectly especially when they know someone does not wish to be their friend. There is a side story involving Stella’s thirtieth birthday and the possibility that her beau might ask a certain question. There is an excerpt from 15 Minutes of Flame, the 3rd A Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery, at the end along with a recipe and discussion on making your own candle molds. Murder Makes Sense is an engaging cozy mystery with a funny formula, mold making masterclass, curious clues, a perplexing prowler, and a comical cat.
February 12, 2020
On Sale February 25th, 2020
The second book in Christin Brecher’s “Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery” cozy series, Murder Makes Scents, arrives on February 25th from Kensington Books.
I will start by saying that I feel this was a fun cozy to read. There is plenty of action, loads of suspects and some very outlandish scenes that readers will either smile and laugh over or will frown and shake their heads in dismay. The characters are original, the story even more so. The writing is fluid and easy to read. The setting of Nantucket is an excellent choice of location.
I enjoyed the first cozy book in this series and looked forward to this second book. However, I had some problems with the story overall. My first issue is because of the trusting nature of Stella. Just because someone shows you an ID that says they are FBI or other justice department personnel does not mean it isn’t fake. The mere fact that Stella didn’t question its authenticity troubled me a great deal. The entire scene of the parachute is just too unbelievable all the way around. If someone was internationally famous as a spy or a villain, it is unlikely that an amateur candle maker would have been the only one capable of catching this person.
All of the above-stated Murder Makes Scents is a good cozy book that will keep readers coming back for more. In general, this book reads more like an action-suspense novel and will appeal to those who enjoy a more intense murder mystery. I highly suggest that readers go back and read the first book in the series to get a better idea of who the characters are and the role they play.
The second book in Christin Brecher’s “Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery” cozy series, Murder Makes Scents, arrives on February 25th from Kensington Books.
I will start by saying that I feel this was a fun cozy to read. There is plenty of action, loads of suspects and some very outlandish scenes that readers will either smile and laugh over or will frown and shake their heads in dismay. The characters are original, the story even more so. The writing is fluid and easy to read. The setting of Nantucket is an excellent choice of location.
I enjoyed the first cozy book in this series and looked forward to this second book. However, I had some problems with the story overall. My first issue is because of the trusting nature of Stella. Just because someone shows you an ID that says they are FBI or other justice department personnel does not mean it isn’t fake. The mere fact that Stella didn’t question its authenticity troubled me a great deal. The entire scene of the parachute is just too unbelievable all the way around. If someone was internationally famous as a spy or a villain, it is unlikely that an amateur candle maker would have been the only one capable of catching this person.
All of the above-stated Murder Makes Scents is a good cozy book that will keep readers coming back for more. In general, this book reads more like an action-suspense novel and will appeal to those who enjoy a more intense murder mystery. I highly suggest that readers go back and read the first book in the series to get a better idea of who the characters are and the role they play.
March 2, 2020
Stella Wright and her mother return from a perfume conference in Paris. It wasn’t the perfect trip, though. A man is murdered and they are present for the stabbing. They are more than happy to leave Paris and return to their home in Nantucket where Stella runs her Wick & Flame candle store.
Things start to get a bit crazy when Stella’s mom is hit on the head and Stella receives threatening notes. The notes say that Stella’s mom smuggled a secret formula out of France. Now both of their lives are in danger.
This is the second book in the series and I enjoyed my return to Nantucket. So much is happening in this book as Stella’s relationship with her boyfriend and her mother continue to grow. The characters are well-developed and come to life on each page.
I have to admit that I did suspect the culprit, but I was thrown off the track a few times. There were many red herrings thrown into the mix. It is a great ride getting to the end and learning who the bad guys really were. This book had so much going for it from espionage, mystery, and a little romance on the side. I enjoyed it all and look forward to the next book in the series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Things start to get a bit crazy when Stella’s mom is hit on the head and Stella receives threatening notes. The notes say that Stella’s mom smuggled a secret formula out of France. Now both of their lives are in danger.
This is the second book in the series and I enjoyed my return to Nantucket. So much is happening in this book as Stella’s relationship with her boyfriend and her mother continue to grow. The characters are well-developed and come to life on each page.
I have to admit that I did suspect the culprit, but I was thrown off the track a few times. There were many red herrings thrown into the mix. It is a great ride getting to the end and learning who the bad guys really were. This book had so much going for it from espionage, mystery, and a little romance on the side. I enjoyed it all and look forward to the next book in the series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 2, 2020
Wow this was good! What did a murder in Paris and international secrets and spies have in common? Stella's mom Millie, who was unwittingly involved in having something top secret. This got really exciting, and I couldn't put it down. I can't say a whole lot for fear of giving away the good stuff, but Stella once again was on the trail of a killer after witnessing a man dying in Paris before she and her mom left. They thought they'd left those troubles behind...
I like where Stella and Peter are in their relationship, they're really sweet together but haven't really had much time in just four short months to get to know each other very well. The worst part was having to leave Peter as well as Stella's police friend Andy out of what she was investigating. The adventure played out like a fast spy movie and kind of incredible at that. Who knew that she'd face the killer at the most unlikely place.
Millie was never one to stay put long, so she was back at another destination after Stella and all her friends and Millie had celebrated Stella's thirtieth. I'm so anxious now to see what kind of adventure Stella gets into next and whether her mom will be in it. She's kind of a crazy lady, but I like her!
I like where Stella and Peter are in their relationship, they're really sweet together but haven't really had much time in just four short months to get to know each other very well. The worst part was having to leave Peter as well as Stella's police friend Andy out of what she was investigating. The adventure played out like a fast spy movie and kind of incredible at that. Who knew that she'd face the killer at the most unlikely place.
Millie was never one to stay put long, so she was back at another destination after Stella and all her friends and Millie had celebrated Stella's thirtieth. I'm so anxious now to see what kind of adventure Stella gets into next and whether her mom will be in it. She's kind of a crazy lady, but I like her!
December 21, 2020
Murder Makes Scents is a fun cozy romp from Paris all the way to Nantucket. But it asks a lot of its reader. I mean in terms of books and suspending reality this books asks readers to have a lot suspended. But I still liked it. Stella is a fantastic character and someone I would love to have a coffee with. Her mother Millie is what I want to be when I’m older. Over all great book! I bought the other two in the series right after finishing this one.
I received a free review copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest unedited feedback.
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I received a free review copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest unedited feedback.
#read #reader #book #bookstagram #readersofinstagram #bookreview #greatreads #alwaysreading #reading #ilovebooks #currentreads #bookaddict #booknerd #bookish #bibliophile #goodreads #readerlife #booklife #readandreview #cozy
February 24, 2022
I must say that Christin Brecher wrote a wonderful, refreshing mystery that I totally enjoyed reading. The characters were quirky but true to life and the writing took me to Paris and Nantucket in my mind. This book is a bit of a different type for me as I usually go for more horror or dark mysteries but it was a good break for my mind and was easy to read. Sometimes you just need a good get away tale. I am not the type to do a review and go into details which I feel can ruin it for other readers. If you are looking for a nice, light, refreshing mystery to read I would highly recommend Murder Makes Scents. Also nice was I won this book and Christen autographed it for me, so very nice. I plan on looking for the first in the series as well.
February 16, 2020
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, but didn't like this one quite as well. The issue for me was that a few things felt over the top, making it seem less than credible. I didn't feel that way at all about the first book. I do like the characters in the series so far, and I'll read the next one that comes out, hoping that I won't have the same issue with it.
February 25, 2020
Murder Makes Scents earns 5/5 Fragrant Spies...Entertaining Fun!
Enter the Wick and Flame, a Nantucket candle maker shop, and enjoy the artistry, the fragrance, and...murder? I am new to Christin Brecher’s series, but starting with the second book didn’t put me at a disadvantage; there were enough references in background and character connections to keep me engaged. Stella Wright is in Paris attending a perfume conference with her mother, Millie, a well-known perfumer, who regales the attendees with stories of her trip to the Amazon to find the most delicious scents. However, Stella witnesses a stabbing, and on their return home, they discover the candle shop has been burgled, a mysterious note accuses her mother of smuggling, and bodily harm is threatened. International intrigue. Codes. Mysterious woman. Tourists. And a thirtieth birthday! Wow! Although a few characters acted a bit unrealistically, too accepting, but would I question authority when their credentials look legitimate? No, I, too, would accept their story. I enjoyed this romp including several perilous moments keeping me frantically turning the pages. Christin used a first-person narrative from Stella’s perspective vicariously giving readers, like me, a role in the drama, and with descriptive language one might feel, hear, or...smell, and the dialogue doing well to depict tone and the various personalities, I am a fan. I enjoyed the dynamic between Stella and her mother having their passion for “scents” in common, and “Fur” friends will enjoy Tinker, Stella’s cat. All together I was challenged to see the whole picture on my own...it was great! Bonus, yeah! Gram Scully’s Cranberry Pie!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from NetGalley and Kensington. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Enter the Wick and Flame, a Nantucket candle maker shop, and enjoy the artistry, the fragrance, and...murder? I am new to Christin Brecher’s series, but starting with the second book didn’t put me at a disadvantage; there were enough references in background and character connections to keep me engaged. Stella Wright is in Paris attending a perfume conference with her mother, Millie, a well-known perfumer, who regales the attendees with stories of her trip to the Amazon to find the most delicious scents. However, Stella witnesses a stabbing, and on their return home, they discover the candle shop has been burgled, a mysterious note accuses her mother of smuggling, and bodily harm is threatened. International intrigue. Codes. Mysterious woman. Tourists. And a thirtieth birthday! Wow! Although a few characters acted a bit unrealistically, too accepting, but would I question authority when their credentials look legitimate? No, I, too, would accept their story. I enjoyed this romp including several perilous moments keeping me frantically turning the pages. Christin used a first-person narrative from Stella’s perspective vicariously giving readers, like me, a role in the drama, and with descriptive language one might feel, hear, or...smell, and the dialogue doing well to depict tone and the various personalities, I am a fan. I enjoyed the dynamic between Stella and her mother having their passion for “scents” in common, and “Fur” friends will enjoy Tinker, Stella’s cat. All together I was challenged to see the whole picture on my own...it was great! Bonus, yeah! Gram Scully’s Cranberry Pie!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from NetGalley and Kensington. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
June 19, 2020
It took me a while to get into this one, and I have to admit it isn't my favourite cozy mystery ever. One of the crucial plot points, which is how a particular code is hidden (don't worry, no spoilers) is just a bit beyond the believable for me. Like, I know that books like these aren't generally beholden to maintaining utmost believability, but....this one stretched it for me, it really did.
It doesn't help that espionage and intelligence as sorta my wheelhouse as an academic, so there was just a whole lot of raised eyebrow and cynicism for me from the get-go; in my defence, when I requested this (yes, this is a review copy), I didn't know it was going to lean heavily into an espionage-related plot line. I honestly would have avoided it, because things like that start to feel like work for me, real quick.
I will say that I kind of like that fact that the protagonist of this book is, of all things, a candlemaker. Legitimately. Her candles actually sound really nice, too, which is cool. It's different, you know? I don't think I've ever read another book where the main character made candles for a living.
The....well, I suppose the 'action' sequences in the book were fairly well done, honestly. I use air quotes because this is a cozy mystery, so action sequences are still fairly staid compared to more hard crime/thriller novels. I was incredibly annoyed with the protagonist throughout her efforts at mystery solving, but in the way where you keep reading because the writing is good, not because it's bad. It felt a bit like when you're watching a tv show or film for the first time, and you watch it with one eye closed and half turned away because you want to know what's happening but you can't bring yourself to look at it head-on.
The author has a nice way of examining all the identified 'suspects' without being too leading, though it is immediately fairly apparent what is happening. The main character, who I realize I haven't named yet but is called Stella Wright, is a rather impetuous soul - and yes, this does land her in a bit of strife more often than not. This is a characteristic that I often find very frustrating in any fictional character, so my not being particularly fond of this book may stem from that pet peeve more than anything.
All things considered, this is a well written cozy mystery. I do think that many people would enjoy it, and maybe I might even give it another go at some point in the future
It doesn't help that espionage and intelligence as sorta my wheelhouse as an academic, so there was just a whole lot of raised eyebrow and cynicism for me from the get-go; in my defence, when I requested this (yes, this is a review copy), I didn't know it was going to lean heavily into an espionage-related plot line. I honestly would have avoided it, because things like that start to feel like work for me, real quick.
I will say that I kind of like that fact that the protagonist of this book is, of all things, a candlemaker. Legitimately. Her candles actually sound really nice, too, which is cool. It's different, you know? I don't think I've ever read another book where the main character made candles for a living.
The....well, I suppose the 'action' sequences in the book were fairly well done, honestly. I use air quotes because this is a cozy mystery, so action sequences are still fairly staid compared to more hard crime/thriller novels. I was incredibly annoyed with the protagonist throughout her efforts at mystery solving, but in the way where you keep reading because the writing is good, not because it's bad. It felt a bit like when you're watching a tv show or film for the first time, and you watch it with one eye closed and half turned away because you want to know what's happening but you can't bring yourself to look at it head-on.
The author has a nice way of examining all the identified 'suspects' without being too leading, though it is immediately fairly apparent what is happening. The main character, who I realize I haven't named yet but is called Stella Wright, is a rather impetuous soul - and yes, this does land her in a bit of strife more often than not. This is a characteristic that I often find very frustrating in any fictional character, so my not being particularly fond of this book may stem from that pet peeve more than anything.
All things considered, this is a well written cozy mystery. I do think that many people would enjoy it, and maybe I might even give it another go at some point in the future
February 25, 2020
As one of my new favorite series, I was excited to return to Nantucket Island and Stella’s candle shop, the Wick & Flame. As the story opens, Stella, and her mother Millie, are in Paris attending a perfume industry conference where her mother is a guest speaker. While Stella has a talent for creating unique candle scents, Millie creates unique perfume scents.
They are enjoying Paris, eating, shopping, and making a new friend from the conference. All is going well until Stella witnesses a stabbing of a man also attending the conference. Stella and Millie return home to Nantucket with welcomed relief, until several events happen leaving Stella anxious that the violent death of the young man has followed them home. When her candle store is broken into, her mother attacked from behind, and anonymous note claiming her mother has a vial smuggled out of Paris, that threatens her mother’s life, Stella knows it’s time to get involved. Stella is determined to uncover the secrets of the perfume vial while keeping her mother safe.
This is the second book in the Nantucket Candle Maker series and an excellent addition. Ms. Brecher takes you to Nantucket Island as she artfully gives descriptions of the area. Stella, is a capable protagonist that can rely on her friends to give help when needed. The plot was intriguing, as it took several turns with a variety of suspects. The ending, was one that caught me off guard. This delightful series has all the characteristics of charming cozy and is a delightful read. I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher Kensington through Netgalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
They are enjoying Paris, eating, shopping, and making a new friend from the conference. All is going well until Stella witnesses a stabbing of a man also attending the conference. Stella and Millie return home to Nantucket with welcomed relief, until several events happen leaving Stella anxious that the violent death of the young man has followed them home. When her candle store is broken into, her mother attacked from behind, and anonymous note claiming her mother has a vial smuggled out of Paris, that threatens her mother’s life, Stella knows it’s time to get involved. Stella is determined to uncover the secrets of the perfume vial while keeping her mother safe.
This is the second book in the Nantucket Candle Maker series and an excellent addition. Ms. Brecher takes you to Nantucket Island as she artfully gives descriptions of the area. Stella, is a capable protagonist that can rely on her friends to give help when needed. The plot was intriguing, as it took several turns with a variety of suspects. The ending, was one that caught me off guard. This delightful series has all the characteristics of charming cozy and is a delightful read. I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher Kensington through Netgalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
February 12, 2020
Stella is Nantucket's local Candle lady, but as the story begins, she is in France with her mother, and they are play-acting the concept of the fancy Parisian ladies. On a side note, the city wasn't for me, but I could still empathize with Stella's excitement. She rarely got to spend quality time with her mother, who has a severe case of wanderlust. There was the sly mention of the unknown father again in this, and I smell a future book focusing on the revelations that might go with that back story. The glitzy work cum vacation ends with a dead body and a hastily wrapped up return to their hometown. Once there, it seems like the trouble followed them all the way. The plot was a little outlandish but made more sense than some cozies with random reasons for the lead digging around trying to solve the case. There are multiple suspects, many odd occurrences and a lot more revelations about the people involved than I thought we would be given by the time the end rolled around.
The writing and narrative styles continue to make the series and the inhabitants feel three dimensional, and any reasoning they gave for the story going the way can be deemed acceptable.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience of this book.
The writing and narrative styles continue to make the series and the inhabitants feel three dimensional, and any reasoning they gave for the story going the way can be deemed acceptable.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience of this book.
March 1, 2020
This was a fast paced mystery and a wild fun ride. I loved the characters especially the relationship between mother and daughter but there were a few moments that just seemed ...I'm not sure but just kinda unreal. It didn't take away my enjoyment of the story at all though. I loved Tinker the kitty! Animals are just over the top in mystery stories for me.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
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