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Barks & Beans Cafe Cozy Mystery #4
Spilled Milk
Welcome to the Barks & Beans Cafe, a quaint place where folks pet shelter dogs while enjoying a cup of java...and where murder sometimes pays a visit.
The fall flea market has arrived in Macy's small mountain town, and she's taking a day off work to check out the local wares. As she and her Great Dane, Coal, wander through the booths, Macy's more than a little taken aback to discover that her enigmatic tattooed barista, Kylie, is selling antique weapons at the event.
She's even more shocked when Coal sniffs out a dead body...and the man appears to have been struck down by one of Kylie's swords.
As rumors begin to circulate, the Barks & Beans Cafe also takes a hit. Customers are reluctant to order their mochas from a murderess. Macy stands by her employee, but even she believes there's a whole lot more to Kylie's history than the woman lets on. To make matters worse, Macy's brother Bo is out of the country, leaving the cafe's future in her hands.
And then her ex-husband Jake shows up, begging to make amends.
With the past rearing its ugly head, Macy has to ignore Jake's distractions, appease the angst of her nervous customers, and convince Kylie to trust her, all before an elusive killer strikes again.
Join siblings Macy and Bo Hatfield as they sniff out crimes in their hometown...with plenty of dogs along for the ride! The Barks & Beans Cafe cozy mystery series features a small town, an amateur sleuth, and no swearing or graphic scenes.
The fall flea market has arrived in Macy's small mountain town, and she's taking a day off work to check out the local wares. As she and her Great Dane, Coal, wander through the booths, Macy's more than a little taken aback to discover that her enigmatic tattooed barista, Kylie, is selling antique weapons at the event.
She's even more shocked when Coal sniffs out a dead body...and the man appears to have been struck down by one of Kylie's swords.
As rumors begin to circulate, the Barks & Beans Cafe also takes a hit. Customers are reluctant to order their mochas from a murderess. Macy stands by her employee, but even she believes there's a whole lot more to Kylie's history than the woman lets on. To make matters worse, Macy's brother Bo is out of the country, leaving the cafe's future in her hands.
And then her ex-husband Jake shows up, begging to make amends.
With the past rearing its ugly head, Macy has to ignore Jake's distractions, appease the angst of her nervous customers, and convince Kylie to trust her, all before an elusive killer strikes again.
Join siblings Macy and Bo Hatfield as they sniff out crimes in their hometown...with plenty of dogs along for the ride! The Barks & Beans Cafe cozy mystery series features a small town, an amateur sleuth, and no swearing or graphic scenes.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 19, 2021
78 people are currently reading
173 people want to read
About the author
Heather Day Gilbert
40 books867 followersHeather Day Gilbert, an RWA Daphne du Maurier Award-winning author and 2-time ECPA Christy Award finalist, enjoys writing contemporary mysteries/psychological thrillers and Viking historicals. She brings authentic family relationships to the page, and she particularly delights in heroines who take a stand to protect those they love. Avid readers say Heather's realistic characters—no matter what century—feel like best friends. When she's not plotting stories, this native West Virginian can often be found hanging out with her husband and four children, playing video games, or reading Agatha Christie novels.
Find out more at heatherdaygilbert.com.
Find out more at heatherdaygilbert.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
September 8, 2023
Note: This review has no spoilers for this book; but it does presuppose that those who read it will have read the four full-length novels that precede it in the series. I would definitely advise reading the series in order.
When we finished this installment of the Barks and Beans Cafe' series, which we're reading together, my wife Barb (who's not on Goodreads), commenting on the appeal of the series as a whole to her, said that it's "simple, down-to-earth, country." She added words to the effect that much of its appeal comes from the basic likability of protagonist Macy Hatfield (who genuinely cares about others, and it shows), the small-town atmosphere, and the implicit message of the value of family and community. (And being an Appalachian native herself, the setting is a major plus for her.) Her comments do encapsulate a great deal of what the series has going for it, though I think its appeal would extend to readers in any geographic location, with or without an Appalachian connection or an actual rural or small-town background of their own. My star rating reflects what Barb would give it, since she's more the target audience --though I like the series too, and personally liked this particular book the best of those I've read so far (though it has enough similarity to the others that my general comments in most of those reviews would also apply to this one).
For this adventure, Macy's brother Bo plays a much less prominent role than usual. He's in South America, and mostly incommunicado, for much of the book. As the first book ultimately revealed, he has a DEA background (from which he's "retired," sort of, but not so much so as not to keep his hand in at times!). Now, he's been called into a deep-cover mission to (hopefully) finally get the goods on Leo Moreau, the arch-criminal mastermind who's been his nemesis since his DEA days, and whose doings have formed a constant plot strand through the first four novels as well. But continuing character Kylie Baer, the Hatfield siblings' heavily-tattooed barista at Barks and Beans, plays a much bigger role than usual, and we get to know the usually taciturn and stand-offish young woman much better than heretofore. (Some mystery fans might wish that she were the series sleuth here! :-) Of course, Kylie wouldn't relish the circumstances that bring her so much to the fore here: early on, she happens to emerge as the leading suspect in the murder of her younger sister's detested boyfriend, who's found with one of her antique swords in his back....
This novel is paced and plotted very well, and presented in the straightforward, engaging style that's characteristic of the series. The mystery elements hold up to scrutiny. (As usual, pay attention to minor details; they may prove to be significant!) I actually guessed the identity of the principal baddie as soon as he/she was introduced, and foresaw the main outline of what was going on, though not some details; but that's only because I've read a lot in the mystery genre and understand some of its dynamics, not because the author ineptly telegraphs it. (She doesn't; my wife was in the dark until the big reveal.) Our small-town West Virginia setting continues to be effectively evoked; Coal and Waffles will appeal to dog lovers (and Stormy will please the cat persons in the reading community), and the interpersonal relationships outside of and around the mystery plot add texture. (These will see one significant development, but no spoilers!) At first, I felt that one not initially very likable character mellows and shows a more mature than expected side too quickly; but I ultimately put this down to the fact that first impressions can mislead us.
Gilbert consciously (and skillfully) tailors this whole series to the tastes and expectations of "cozy" mystery fans in particular. For any of the latter who've discovered this series (and there are quite a few who have; this author has several series, in two genres, but this is the most popular of them!), and who have followed the previous installments, this one won't disappoint in the slightest.
When we finished this installment of the Barks and Beans Cafe' series, which we're reading together, my wife Barb (who's not on Goodreads), commenting on the appeal of the series as a whole to her, said that it's "simple, down-to-earth, country." She added words to the effect that much of its appeal comes from the basic likability of protagonist Macy Hatfield (who genuinely cares about others, and it shows), the small-town atmosphere, and the implicit message of the value of family and community. (And being an Appalachian native herself, the setting is a major plus for her.) Her comments do encapsulate a great deal of what the series has going for it, though I think its appeal would extend to readers in any geographic location, with or without an Appalachian connection or an actual rural or small-town background of their own. My star rating reflects what Barb would give it, since she's more the target audience --though I like the series too, and personally liked this particular book the best of those I've read so far (though it has enough similarity to the others that my general comments in most of those reviews would also apply to this one).
For this adventure, Macy's brother Bo plays a much less prominent role than usual. He's in South America, and mostly incommunicado, for much of the book. As the first book ultimately revealed, he has a DEA background (from which he's "retired," sort of, but not so much so as not to keep his hand in at times!). Now, he's been called into a deep-cover mission to (hopefully) finally get the goods on Leo Moreau, the arch-criminal mastermind who's been his nemesis since his DEA days, and whose doings have formed a constant plot strand through the first four novels as well. But continuing character Kylie Baer, the Hatfield siblings' heavily-tattooed barista at Barks and Beans, plays a much bigger role than usual, and we get to know the usually taciturn and stand-offish young woman much better than heretofore. (Some mystery fans might wish that she were the series sleuth here! :-) Of course, Kylie wouldn't relish the circumstances that bring her so much to the fore here: early on, she happens to emerge as the leading suspect in the murder of her younger sister's detested boyfriend, who's found with one of her antique swords in his back....
This novel is paced and plotted very well, and presented in the straightforward, engaging style that's characteristic of the series. The mystery elements hold up to scrutiny. (As usual, pay attention to minor details; they may prove to be significant!) I actually guessed the identity of the principal baddie as soon as he/she was introduced, and foresaw the main outline of what was going on, though not some details; but that's only because I've read a lot in the mystery genre and understand some of its dynamics, not because the author ineptly telegraphs it. (She doesn't; my wife was in the dark until the big reveal.) Our small-town West Virginia setting continues to be effectively evoked; Coal and Waffles will appeal to dog lovers (and Stormy will please the cat persons in the reading community), and the interpersonal relationships outside of and around the mystery plot add texture. (These will see one significant development, but no spoilers!) At first, I felt that one not initially very likable character mellows and shows a more mature than expected side too quickly; but I ultimately put this down to the fact that first impressions can mislead us.
Gilbert consciously (and skillfully) tailors this whole series to the tastes and expectations of "cozy" mystery fans in particular. For any of the latter who've discovered this series (and there are quite a few who have; this author has several series, in two genres, but this is the most popular of them!), and who have followed the previous installments, this one won't disappoint in the slightest.
June 19, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this cozy mystery! Yummy coffee drinks, and dogs everywhere, and happy endings are what I love. The main characters are great people, and most of the secondary characters are loyal and good help, or friends. I absolutely adore the intelligent Great Dane. And, Smoky, Bo’s kitten is a mischievous little imp! I look forward to reading the next exciting story in this series.
May 15, 2021
Spilled Milk is the fourth book in the Barks and Beans Cafe Cozy Mystery. I can't say enough good things about this series things except that I missed Bo in this book since he was in South America getting rid of the bad guys! This series keep getting better, and I just want it to continue forever which I know isn't realistic... but I digress.
March 14, 2022
Spilled Milk
Barks and Beans Cafe Cozy Mystery, Book #4
Heather Day Gilbert
5 Stars
Welcome to the Barks & Beans Cafe, a quaint place where folks pet shelter dogs while enjoying a cup of java...and where murder sometimes pays a visit.
The fall flea market has arrived in Macy's small mountain town, and she's taking a day off work to check out the local wares. As she and her Great Dane, Coal, wander through the booths, Macy's more than a little taken aback to discover that her enigmatic tattooed barista, Kylie, is selling antique weapons at the event.
She's even more shocked when Coal sniffs out a dead body...and the man appears to have been struck down by one of Kylie's swords.
As rumors begin to circulate, the Barks & Beans Cafe also takes a hit. Customers are reluctant to order their mochas from a murderess. Macy stands by her employee, but even she believes there's a whole lot more to Kylie's history than the woman lets on. To make matters worse, Macy's brother Bo is out of the country, leaving the cafe's future in her hands.
And then her ex-husband Jake shows up, begging to make amends.
With the past rearing its ugly head, Macy has to ignore Jake's distractions, appease the angst of her nervous customers, and convince Kylie to trust her, all before an elusive killer strikes again.
Join siblings Macy and Bo Hatfield as they sniff out crimes in their hometown...with plenty of dogs along for the ride! The Barks & Beans Cafe cozy mystery series features a small town, an amateur sleuth, and no swearing or graphic scenes. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. The Barks and Beans Cafe is doing well and Macy’s life is going pretty well. She goes to a flea market and sees her barista there selling antique weapons, she did not know she was so knowledgeable about them. When she and Cole find a dead body with one of the barista’s knives nearby Macy knows she has to find out who really killed him because she knows that her barista did not do it.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through most of the book I could picture things in my mind’s eye as they were happening. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The mystery is well plotted and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. You need all your detective skills to solve this one.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
Barks and Beans Cafe Cozy Mystery, Book #4
Heather Day Gilbert
5 Stars
Welcome to the Barks & Beans Cafe, a quaint place where folks pet shelter dogs while enjoying a cup of java...and where murder sometimes pays a visit.
The fall flea market has arrived in Macy's small mountain town, and she's taking a day off work to check out the local wares. As she and her Great Dane, Coal, wander through the booths, Macy's more than a little taken aback to discover that her enigmatic tattooed barista, Kylie, is selling antique weapons at the event.
She's even more shocked when Coal sniffs out a dead body...and the man appears to have been struck down by one of Kylie's swords.
As rumors begin to circulate, the Barks & Beans Cafe also takes a hit. Customers are reluctant to order their mochas from a murderess. Macy stands by her employee, but even she believes there's a whole lot more to Kylie's history than the woman lets on. To make matters worse, Macy's brother Bo is out of the country, leaving the cafe's future in her hands.
And then her ex-husband Jake shows up, begging to make amends.
With the past rearing its ugly head, Macy has to ignore Jake's distractions, appease the angst of her nervous customers, and convince Kylie to trust her, all before an elusive killer strikes again.
Join siblings Macy and Bo Hatfield as they sniff out crimes in their hometown...with plenty of dogs along for the ride! The Barks & Beans Cafe cozy mystery series features a small town, an amateur sleuth, and no swearing or graphic scenes. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. The Barks and Beans Cafe is doing well and Macy’s life is going pretty well. She goes to a flea market and sees her barista there selling antique weapons, she did not know she was so knowledgeable about them. When she and Cole find a dead body with one of the barista’s knives nearby Macy knows she has to find out who really killed him because she knows that her barista did not do it.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through most of the book I could picture things in my mind’s eye as they were happening. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The mystery is well plotted and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. You need all your detective skills to solve this one.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
May 28, 2021
Love these series. This is the 4th book. Macy and Bo sister and brother own a a coffee and dog adoption cafe. Barks and Beans Where you can adopt dogs and drink coffee while making a match of the dog you choose or the dog chooses you. No had to go away on a DEA suspicion but Macy told him no that he was retired but No wanted to find out this mafia type man Leo that wanted No and Macy dead. But Leo wife ratted him out. Kylie and coffee barista (Barks and Beans cafe)has secrets and she always had a shield set up. Macy went to flee market and saw that Kylie was a sword and knife collector that she was selling. Someone died from one of her swords and it was Kylie everyone suspected of the murder. But Macy did not believe. Chelsea was Kylie younger sis and it was her boyfriend that got stabbed. He was a drug dealer and Kylie always took care of Chelsea and wanted the best for her. Because their parents were drunks.There are 3murders in this book. It is friends and family story sticking by each other. This one is a twisted web of drug trafficking and other serious subject that are very real some of it
April 16, 2021
‘Celebrating a man’s death seemed a little extreme.’
I just love this cozy mystery series! Sibling duo Bo and Macy Hatfield are quite good at solving crimes. They have opened up a wonderful cafe with a section for shelter dogs to hang out in. Hence the name Barks and Beans Cafe. By the way, I would really enjoy having lunch there one day.
Things are going along fine when Bo and Macy’s best barista falls under suspicion of murder (there always is a murder or two involved), and then Macy’s ex-husband shows up with all his charming ways. With Bo out of town, can Macy manage to solve all the goings on before landing her own-self in deep water?
I was provided a copy of this book by the author. I was not expected to leave a positive review.
I just love this cozy mystery series! Sibling duo Bo and Macy Hatfield are quite good at solving crimes. They have opened up a wonderful cafe with a section for shelter dogs to hang out in. Hence the name Barks and Beans Cafe. By the way, I would really enjoy having lunch there one day.
Things are going along fine when Bo and Macy’s best barista falls under suspicion of murder (there always is a murder or two involved), and then Macy’s ex-husband shows up with all his charming ways. With Bo out of town, can Macy manage to solve all the goings on before landing her own-self in deep water?
I was provided a copy of this book by the author. I was not expected to leave a positive review.
February 22, 2025
"It was a person. And that person was most likely dead, because he was lying flat on his face, with a sword protruding from a bloody wound in his back."
Dead body number one. Unfortunately for the little town of Lewisburg, West Virginia the count would continue to climb; each and every one with loosely or tightly connected to Bo and Macy Hatfield's barista, Kylie Baer. But a frazzled employee isn't Macy's only dilemma; her brother has to make an extended trip out of town, her ex-husband, aka Jake-the-Snake, shows up oozing way too much charm, and Kylie's little sister Chelsea is bound to know more than she's saying.
No one needs to waste time crying over spilled milk, but the future just has to look a lot brighter, right? Enjoy this cozy "cozy" with its coffee-induced selection of personalities!
When you finish a book before you even realize that you have turned the last page, it must be something special! And it is!
Dead body number one. Unfortunately for the little town of Lewisburg, West Virginia the count would continue to climb; each and every one with loosely or tightly connected to Bo and Macy Hatfield's barista, Kylie Baer. But a frazzled employee isn't Macy's only dilemma; her brother has to make an extended trip out of town, her ex-husband, aka Jake-the-Snake, shows up oozing way too much charm, and Kylie's little sister Chelsea is bound to know more than she's saying.
No one needs to waste time crying over spilled milk, but the future just has to look a lot brighter, right? Enjoy this cozy "cozy" with its coffee-induced selection of personalities!
When you finish a book before you even realize that you have turned the last page, it must be something special! And it is!
April 24, 2021
“Someone else just showed up dead—and this time, the body was in my front yard."
“To be forewarned is to be forearmed.”
“The Barks & Beans Cafe must go on!"
Another fantastic Heather Day Gilbert cozy mystery featuring Macy Hatfield. Heather Day Gilbert has such an authentic voice in her books; she makes you feel like you are in the mountains of West Virginia. Great new characters in this one as well as more storylines for existing characters. I loved all the red herrings in this one and I spent all of the book having no clue. I had an inkling about something but nope, not even close. It was a satisfying ending to be sure and once again, looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
“To be forewarned is to be forearmed.”
“The Barks & Beans Cafe must go on!"
Another fantastic Heather Day Gilbert cozy mystery featuring Macy Hatfield. Heather Day Gilbert has such an authentic voice in her books; she makes you feel like you are in the mountains of West Virginia. Great new characters in this one as well as more storylines for existing characters. I loved all the red herrings in this one and I spent all of the book having no clue. I had an inkling about something but nope, not even close. It was a satisfying ending to be sure and once again, looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
October 9, 2021
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Macy had planned a quiet day for herself and her Great Dane Coal checking out the wares at the local flea market. She is totally surprised to see her barista, Kylie, has a booth selling antique weapons. After visiting with her for a few minutes she moves on to a few more booths and then wanders into the antique car show. She is almost run over by a guy in a hoodie going somewhere in a hurry. As she ventured further into the car show Coal starts to whine and pulled Macy toward one of the cars. When she peered through the windows she noticed something in the backseat. She quickly figured out it was a person . . . a very dead person . . . with a bloody sword stuck in his back.
Could Kylie be involved in the death? The sword looks like one she had at her booth. She is high on the police suspect list and people are hearing rumors. So much so that customers are avoiding Kylie at Barks and Beans. They have a big event coming up at the cafe and with her brother Bo out of town she needs all hands on deck. She also has a huge thorn in her side, her ex-husband has come to town to make amends but she is sure he is up to something.
So Macy has a lot of things brewing in her life. The cafe, her ex, and the murder. Can the killer be caught before more blood is spilled?
I am so captivated by this series and its characters. Macy and Bo have a strong bond. In this installment, though he is away on a secret assignment. More little crystals of knowledge about his other job are dropped in this story. I was happy he could check in with Macy a few times by phone. She was comforted by those calls and didn’t mention the murder but he does have other sources. Macy did an excellent job of keeping everything running at the cafe. Her employees are well-trained and she trusts them which gives them the confidence to do their jobs well. Kylie though is a tough nut to crack but Macy worked hard to bring down some walls. Meeting her sister answered many questions.
Of course, there are some 4 legged characters too. The lovable Coal stole my heart a long time ago. Summer brings in a group of pups each day in hopes they will be adopted. The success rate has been really good. The exception being Waffles, a unique dog that has been placed and returned several times. It was nice to see him again in this story and this time might just be the charm. Bo’s kitten is staying with Macy while Bo is out of town and he is none too happy about it.
This mystery was excellent. The body count does rise and there are twists on top of twists. I was pulled deeply into the story honing in on a few suspects but I was wrong, wrong, wrong. The ending was very exciting, I truly was on the edge of my seat.
Heather Day Gilbert wraps her awesome characters in a story with a perfect balance of intrigue, drama, romance, and humor. Spilled Milk is a great addition to this series. I do recommend you read them all in order but each story is written to stand on its own. The next book in this series, Trouble Brewing will be released on October 18.
Macy had planned a quiet day for herself and her Great Dane Coal checking out the wares at the local flea market. She is totally surprised to see her barista, Kylie, has a booth selling antique weapons. After visiting with her for a few minutes she moves on to a few more booths and then wanders into the antique car show. She is almost run over by a guy in a hoodie going somewhere in a hurry. As she ventured further into the car show Coal starts to whine and pulled Macy toward one of the cars. When she peered through the windows she noticed something in the backseat. She quickly figured out it was a person . . . a very dead person . . . with a bloody sword stuck in his back.
Could Kylie be involved in the death? The sword looks like one she had at her booth. She is high on the police suspect list and people are hearing rumors. So much so that customers are avoiding Kylie at Barks and Beans. They have a big event coming up at the cafe and with her brother Bo out of town she needs all hands on deck. She also has a huge thorn in her side, her ex-husband has come to town to make amends but she is sure he is up to something.
So Macy has a lot of things brewing in her life. The cafe, her ex, and the murder. Can the killer be caught before more blood is spilled?
I am so captivated by this series and its characters. Macy and Bo have a strong bond. In this installment, though he is away on a secret assignment. More little crystals of knowledge about his other job are dropped in this story. I was happy he could check in with Macy a few times by phone. She was comforted by those calls and didn’t mention the murder but he does have other sources. Macy did an excellent job of keeping everything running at the cafe. Her employees are well-trained and she trusts them which gives them the confidence to do their jobs well. Kylie though is a tough nut to crack but Macy worked hard to bring down some walls. Meeting her sister answered many questions.
Of course, there are some 4 legged characters too. The lovable Coal stole my heart a long time ago. Summer brings in a group of pups each day in hopes they will be adopted. The success rate has been really good. The exception being Waffles, a unique dog that has been placed and returned several times. It was nice to see him again in this story and this time might just be the charm. Bo’s kitten is staying with Macy while Bo is out of town and he is none too happy about it.
This mystery was excellent. The body count does rise and there are twists on top of twists. I was pulled deeply into the story honing in on a few suspects but I was wrong, wrong, wrong. The ending was very exciting, I truly was on the edge of my seat.
Heather Day Gilbert wraps her awesome characters in a story with a perfect balance of intrigue, drama, romance, and humor. Spilled Milk is a great addition to this series. I do recommend you read them all in order but each story is written to stand on its own. The next book in this series, Trouble Brewing will be released on October 18.
April 19, 2021
A feel-good cozy mystery!
The Barks & Beans Café—small-town Lewisville’s place to gather for fantastic coffee and the chance to mingle with (and perhaps adopt) lovable dogs from the nearby animal shelter.
In the middle of plans for the café’s one-year anniversary, Macy Hatfield’s brother and business partner, Bo, is called away for “one last duty” for his former drug enforcement boss.
Macy can handle this on her own, right? Her loyal staff members, and her friend Summer from the animal shelter, are on board to help.
Except her best barista is suddenly a murder suspect. And her ex-husband slithers into town. And Bo’s cat is a nightmare houseguest.
Readers familiar with the series know Macy has a helping heart. She has to support Kylie and clear her name despite the girl’s distant attitude. And despite the rebellious younger sister Kylie is supporting.
If you’re new to the series you can start here, but it’d be more fun to start at the beginning with No Filter. Each story is self-contained, although there’s a long-term plot thread as well as developing relationships.
I like the characters—human and animal—and the light-hearted vibe even though the body count is rising. This is a mystery I could read at bedtime, be fully engaged in the story, and not risk bad dreams. I don’t know if “feel-good mystery” is a genre, but the label fits for this one. I was smiling when I finished.
The Barks & Beans novels are clean, mainstream cozy mysteries set in small-town West Virginia. Spilled Milk is book four. Up next will be Trouble Brewing.
Author Heather Day Gilbert writes cozy mysteries, romantic suspense, and Viking historicals. Check out her website for more information: heatherdaygilbert.com.
[Review copy provided by the publisher. I was not required to write a review, and my opinions are my own.]
The Barks & Beans Café—small-town Lewisville’s place to gather for fantastic coffee and the chance to mingle with (and perhaps adopt) lovable dogs from the nearby animal shelter.
In the middle of plans for the café’s one-year anniversary, Macy Hatfield’s brother and business partner, Bo, is called away for “one last duty” for his former drug enforcement boss.
Macy can handle this on her own, right? Her loyal staff members, and her friend Summer from the animal shelter, are on board to help.
Except her best barista is suddenly a murder suspect. And her ex-husband slithers into town. And Bo’s cat is a nightmare houseguest.
Readers familiar with the series know Macy has a helping heart. She has to support Kylie and clear her name despite the girl’s distant attitude. And despite the rebellious younger sister Kylie is supporting.
If you’re new to the series you can start here, but it’d be more fun to start at the beginning with No Filter. Each story is self-contained, although there’s a long-term plot thread as well as developing relationships.
I like the characters—human and animal—and the light-hearted vibe even though the body count is rising. This is a mystery I could read at bedtime, be fully engaged in the story, and not risk bad dreams. I don’t know if “feel-good mystery” is a genre, but the label fits for this one. I was smiling when I finished.
The Barks & Beans novels are clean, mainstream cozy mysteries set in small-town West Virginia. Spilled Milk is book four. Up next will be Trouble Brewing.
Author Heather Day Gilbert writes cozy mysteries, romantic suspense, and Viking historicals. Check out her website for more information: heatherdaygilbert.com.
[Review copy provided by the publisher. I was not required to write a review, and my opinions are my own.]
May 11, 2021
Spilled Milk is another excellent addition to Heather Day Gilbert's Barks & Beans Cafe series. I love cozy mysteries and the setting of the cafe where one can get a cup of java and a puppy fix at the same time is so inviting. With her brother Bo out of the country on a fairly secret mission, Macy is pretty much on her own when the cafe's best barista is the main suspect in not just one murder but two. And then a third body shows up. How is Macy going to prove Kylie's innocence? Lots of action--a few "wow, I didn't see that coming" moments, some quirky characters--Macy's ex even shows up, murders to solve, and don't forget Coal, the ever-present Great Dane--what more could a cozy mystery lover ask for. One might ask for some romance and yep, that's there too! I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.
April 22, 2021
Another Interesting Barks &Beans
This was another interest ing Barks & Beans filled with plenty of suspense twists and turns.
I loved the storyline and cast of characters.
This was another interest ing Barks & Beans filled with plenty of suspense twists and turns.
I loved the storyline and cast of characters.
May 14, 2021
I was eager to get my hands on the newest Barks and Beans book, Spilled Milk, and I was not disappointed! In this book, it feels like Macy Hatfield is going it alone a bit, since her brother, Bo, is out of town on some rather dangerous business. This time the mystery surrounds one of her very own employees at the café, Kylie, whose collectible sword was found in the back of someone at the local flea market. Things go from bad to worse when Macy’s ex Jake shows up.
There are so many fun pieces to this story – Macy’s neighbor Vera made me smile, as well as one notoriously behaved dog finally (hopefully!) finding his forever home. Characters that you want together are finally getting together, and even Macy’s own happy ending seems like it might be on the horizon. Not that I’ll be happy to see this series end, but it is fun to see things appear to work out the way you want them. And Jake the Snake was as odious as I always knew he’d be!
The mystery is spot on, and while my thoughts did go to one certain character as the culprit, I actually bounced back and forth a bit. Kylie is a tough nut to crack as well, but Macy’s steadfastness won her over. Just a warning, you might want a latte by the end of the book – I know I did! I’m so glad that book five is coming out in October, and we’ll soon see what Macy and company get into next.
There are so many fun pieces to this story – Macy’s neighbor Vera made me smile, as well as one notoriously behaved dog finally (hopefully!) finding his forever home. Characters that you want together are finally getting together, and even Macy’s own happy ending seems like it might be on the horizon. Not that I’ll be happy to see this series end, but it is fun to see things appear to work out the way you want them. And Jake the Snake was as odious as I always knew he’d be!
The mystery is spot on, and while my thoughts did go to one certain character as the culprit, I actually bounced back and forth a bit. Kylie is a tough nut to crack as well, but Macy’s steadfastness won her over. Just a warning, you might want a latte by the end of the book – I know I did! I’m so glad that book five is coming out in October, and we’ll soon see what Macy and company get into next.
October 4, 2021
This series has such a fun setting - a coffee shop with dogs. Although I'm not certain I would actually visit a place like this in real life (I'm not a huge dog lover, but anyway... ;) ), I have thoroughly enjoyed each book in this series.
And then there's the main character - Macy Hatfield. I like her, I do, although I can't wait to see what the author has up her sleeve for this gal! It's fun seeing her solve these mysteries.
Heather Gilbert writes such wonderful mysteries, and this one was no exception. Fun, action, and some true-to-life characters combine to make this a top-notch cozy novel.
I look forward to reading the next one!
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
And then there's the main character - Macy Hatfield. I like her, I do, although I can't wait to see what the author has up her sleeve for this gal! It's fun seeing her solve these mysteries.
Heather Gilbert writes such wonderful mysteries, and this one was no exception. Fun, action, and some true-to-life characters combine to make this a top-notch cozy novel.
I look forward to reading the next one!
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
May 4, 2021
“Ms. Gilbert’s writing is brilliant, her characters real and fun, her stories a delight to read, and I look forward to the next book in this series, Spilled Milk.” (from my review of Fair Trade, 10 November 2020, https://robinsnest212.wordpress.com/2... )
Macy Hatfield has become a good friend by now, practically family. I always enjoy going along for the ride on one of her adventures. Her tenacity, her sense of justice, her knack for reading people. And of course her love of dogs! (Although this reviewer is 100% a cat person.)
Ms. Gilbert twists and weaves so many threads into her stories—I could feel the energy leaping off the page.
Macy encounters first one victim and then another, with strong evidence pointing at her friend, what Macy uncovers is not her friend’s guilt, but a [SPOILER] in Kylie’s past—and in the process, they both uncover a nwew friendship.
Macy follows one clue after another until she comes face to face [SPOILER].
Bo was out of the picture for Macy’s adventure this time. But we meet Jake in this story and all I can say is, what a rat! And as her heart weighs her choices I truly wasn’t sure which fella she would choose. I will say, I agree with her choice!
With just the right balance of tension and humor, mystery and romance, this story keeps the reader guessing. And I gotta say, I did not see that ending coming!
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
The Barks & Beans Cafe cozy mystery series in order:
Book 1: No Filter
Book 2: Iced Over
Book 3: Fair Trade
Book 4: Spilled Milk
Book 5: Trouble Brewing (coming in October)
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Saturday, #TRD, Book Review, Spilled Milk, Heather Day Gilbert, Barks & Beans Café Cozy Mystery
Macy Hatfield has become a good friend by now, practically family. I always enjoy going along for the ride on one of her adventures. Her tenacity, her sense of justice, her knack for reading people. And of course her love of dogs! (Although this reviewer is 100% a cat person.)
Ms. Gilbert twists and weaves so many threads into her stories—I could feel the energy leaping off the page.
Macy encounters first one victim and then another, with strong evidence pointing at her friend, what Macy uncovers is not her friend’s guilt, but a [SPOILER] in Kylie’s past—and in the process, they both uncover a nwew friendship.
Macy follows one clue after another until she comes face to face [SPOILER].
Bo was out of the picture for Macy’s adventure this time. But we meet Jake in this story and all I can say is, what a rat! And as her heart weighs her choices I truly wasn’t sure which fella she would choose. I will say, I agree with her choice!
With just the right balance of tension and humor, mystery and romance, this story keeps the reader guessing. And I gotta say, I did not see that ending coming!
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
The Barks & Beans Cafe cozy mystery series in order:
Book 1: No Filter
Book 2: Iced Over
Book 3: Fair Trade
Book 4: Spilled Milk
Book 5: Trouble Brewing (coming in October)
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Saturday, #TRD, Book Review, Spilled Milk, Heather Day Gilbert, Barks & Beans Café Cozy Mystery
May 19, 2022
I started reading this immediately after finishing the previous book. I rarely do that. I usually need to switch up genres after every book, but I can't get enough of this series. I kinda wish I could live in these books, lol. The characters, the dogs, the whole atmosphere is just so great! Plus, it's so much fun trying to solve the mysteries right alongside Macy.
This story's intriguing mystery found Kylie, one of the Barks & Beans employees, as the prime suspect. And I've gotta say, I was so surprised by the reveal. I really enjoyed getting to know Kylie better too. She's been pretty closed off, so it was nice to see her open up some more.
I did miss Bo in this book. For the majority of the time, he's off tending to something else. Something very important, but I did miss him, all the same. Other than that, this was another fantastic addition to the series and I'm looking forward to checking out the next book.
This story's intriguing mystery found Kylie, one of the Barks & Beans employees, as the prime suspect. And I've gotta say, I was so surprised by the reveal. I really enjoyed getting to know Kylie better too. She's been pretty closed off, so it was nice to see her open up some more.
I did miss Bo in this book. For the majority of the time, he's off tending to something else. Something very important, but I did miss him, all the same. Other than that, this was another fantastic addition to the series and I'm looking forward to checking out the next book.
April 30, 2021
Spilled milk, spilled secrets...spilled blood! Macy Hatfield just may have to face all three when Kylie, the talented but tough barista at her coffee shop/dog parlor becomes a suspect in a murder investigation.
Thanks to her compassionate and caffeinated crusade to clear her young barista’s name, Macy is more endearing than ever in this latest adventure in the Barks & Beans Cafe Mystery Series. The cast of colorful secondary characters—including art dealers, drug dealers, and a knife-wielding barista—is equally engaging. And, as with the other books in the series, the plot of Spilled Milk is a frothy swirl of humor, perplexing mystery, and pulse-pounding tension.
Spilled Milk is a delicious cozy mystery and I highly recommend it.
Thanks to her compassionate and caffeinated crusade to clear her young barista’s name, Macy is more endearing than ever in this latest adventure in the Barks & Beans Cafe Mystery Series. The cast of colorful secondary characters—including art dealers, drug dealers, and a knife-wielding barista—is equally engaging. And, as with the other books in the series, the plot of Spilled Milk is a frothy swirl of humor, perplexing mystery, and pulse-pounding tension.
Spilled Milk is a delicious cozy mystery and I highly recommend it.
April 26, 2021
Macy and Coal are back, but with Bo out of town, they are on their own when murder comes to their small West Virginia town.
As we’ve learned in the previous books, Macy has a good heart and cares about her employees, so when stand-offish Kylie is the prime suspect in the murders, she naturally defends the girl.
Heather Day Gilbert kept me guessing in this one. Add in the arrival of Macy’s ex, and things were most definitely tension filled and the story moved quickly.
And that ending? Let’s just say it’s what I’ve been waiting for!
As we’ve learned in the previous books, Macy has a good heart and cares about her employees, so when stand-offish Kylie is the prime suspect in the murders, she naturally defends the girl.
Heather Day Gilbert kept me guessing in this one. Add in the arrival of Macy’s ex, and things were most definitely tension filled and the story moved quickly.
And that ending? Let’s just say it’s what I’ve been waiting for!
June 7, 2021
This review will not do justice to how good Heather Gilbert’s books are. I was hooked the from her first book and now I’m obsessed. The characters feel like real people who I’ve come to love. The mysteries in these books pull you in and wrap around your mind so that your so caught up in them your heart is pounding and your gasping out loud! I have to say these books are my favorite above all books I’ve ever read in any genre. I seriously feel so lost when I read the end and I’m no longer part of that world. You have to grab these books, I promise you will not be disappointed!
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
April 20, 2021
Fun, believable story!
Ms. Gilbert is a great storyteller. I love Macy, Bo, and the rest of the Barks & Beans crew. It was great getting to know Kylie better in this book. My only wish is that the next one would come out sooner!
Ms. Gilbert is a great storyteller. I love Macy, Bo, and the rest of the Barks & Beans crew. It was great getting to know Kylie better in this book. My only wish is that the next one would come out sooner!
April 22, 2021
this is another great story in the series. who is killing people and will her brother comes home soon. she is left to run everything since he is out of the country, then her ex shows up . and poor waffles is back but who will want and lover her? will she go back to Jack or will it be Dylan or will Titan show up. looking forward to the next story
April 21, 2021
Excellent cozy mystery
This was a superb mystery that was interesting, a real page turner!I read it in one day. So glad there is more in this series, full of romance, excitement and fun!
This was a superb mystery that was interesting, a real page turner!I read it in one day. So glad there is more in this series, full of romance, excitement and fun!
Read
May 28, 2021I love this cozy mystery series! As with the previous installments, Spilled Milk served up plenty of action, twists, colorful characters, and a briskly-paced plot that kept me turning the pages to the end. This time, I had no clue who the villain was, not even a guess! I can't wait for the next book in the series to release.
January 23, 2023
This was probably my favorite book from the series so far! I hate that Bo is out of town and can’t help them solve a murder case. I love that it is all linked together and that the case helps Bo out. I hate that all the girls are captured and hurt but I love that summer calls Titan to help them. I love that he finally asks Macy out. I hate that her ex husband comes causing trouble and gets her to sign over her share of money from his business. I loved the whole case and can’t wait to keep reading!
November 18, 2023
This is definitely my favorite in the series so far. The storyline was fresh and satisfying and the characters (new and old) were fascinating. Wish I could give it more than 5 stars!
April 14, 2021
I just love this book and this series! I read the whole thing in one sitting! I’m always looking forward to reading what kind of adventures Macy and Bo end up getting into. I can’t wait to read the next book!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
April 15, 2021
I loved this book and the entire series! This is a well written book that hooks you on the first page. It is full of suspense, drama and a mystery to solve. If you like cozy mystery's grab this book! You will love it.
I received a complimentary copy and all opinions expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy and all opinions expressed are my own.
April 25, 2021
Great book
This is a great series. I love the characters especially Coal and Stormy. I can't wait to see what happens next.
This is a great series. I love the characters especially Coal and Stormy. I can't wait to see what happens next.
May 11, 2021
I really enjoyed this!
What a great story!! The author really has a way with her characters and story line! This is a great series and I am looking forward to the next one!!
What a great story!! The author really has a way with her characters and story line! This is a great series and I am looking forward to the next one!!
June 8, 2021
Fascinating weaving of characters from previous books in the series without detracting from the current mystery.
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