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A Mallory Beck Cozy Culinary Caper #2
Murder at the Church Picnic: A Mallory Beck Cozy Culinary Caper
Perfect for fans of Molly Fitz and Christy Barritt...
Murder has such a sting!
If anyone had told Mallory Beck she would become Honeysuckle Grove’s next amateur sleuth, she would have thought they were ten walnuts short of a brownie. Her late husband had been the mystery novelist with a penchant for the suspicious. She was born for the muffin pan, not the binoculars, and yet here she was, having just solved her first murder case. It had all started with delivering a casserole to a grieving family and finished with the help of a sarcastic teenager, a cop with kind-hearted green eyes, and a cat with a hunch.
Maybe she should have thought twice about delivering another casserole. But this one was for the potluck at the annual church picnic, and what could possibly go wrong at a picnic?
Find out when you order this cozy culinary caper now!
Murder has such a sting!
If anyone had told Mallory Beck she would become Honeysuckle Grove’s next amateur sleuth, she would have thought they were ten walnuts short of a brownie. Her late husband had been the mystery novelist with a penchant for the suspicious. She was born for the muffin pan, not the binoculars, and yet here she was, having just solved her first murder case. It had all started with delivering a casserole to a grieving family and finished with the help of a sarcastic teenager, a cop with kind-hearted green eyes, and a cat with a hunch.
Maybe she should have thought twice about delivering another casserole. But this one was for the potluck at the annual church picnic, and what could possibly go wrong at a picnic?
Find out when you order this cozy culinary caper now!
180 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 18, 2020
About the author
Denise Jaden
84 books495 followersBestselling author Denise Jaden loves cozy socks, cozy cats, and cozy mysteries. She’s the author of several young adult novels, nonfiction books for writers, and cozy mysteries that will make you laugh out loud while dangling at the edge of your seat.
Prior to becoming an author, Denise worked at everything from mushroom farming to acting and Polynesian dancing. Now she does most of her writing in a holding tent in the background of one of the many film sets in and around Vancouver. Sign up for updates, exclusive bonuses, and find out more about Denise, her books, and her crazy cat at DeniseJaden.com
Prior to becoming an author, Denise worked at everything from mushroom farming to acting and Polynesian dancing. Now she does most of her writing in a holding tent in the background of one of the many film sets in and around Vancouver. Sign up for updates, exclusive bonuses, and find out more about Denise, her books, and her crazy cat at DeniseJaden.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
October 25, 2021
Book 2 Mallory and her new 15 year old friend Amber ( in Book 1). Mallory was showing how to cook. Her mother was always medicated so Mallory decided to become her adult figure in her life. Mallory husband died 8 months ago. And Mallory needed a friend. The festive Alex ( was Mallory crush along time ago when she briefly lived there with her dad when she was young) Amber got her to go to Church more and get out. Well at the Church ⛪Picnic in Bateman Park there was another group there to have a wedding. A wedding planner started yelling at Pastor Jeff and Troy the treasurer of church that they need to get out of there because they had it booked. When the Bride Candi and the groom Dave and their family came Candi started yelling them all. The bride's family looked rich and fashion conscience but the groom family looked plain. Mallory thought that was kinda weird. Lacey Candi sister was one of the bridesmaids and Candi yelled at her and said I did not really even want you to come. Then Candi could not breathe and died. They all thought it was a allergic reaction to a her sting. But that was not the case. These books in series are great. Love the relationship with Mallory in Amber. The Kitty Hunch was getting to love Mallory ( he was Her husband cat he was a mystery Author) and when Mallory would start telling Hunch about murders the kitty would listen to her intently it seemed just like with her deceased husband.I will be reading all of Denise Jaden books in this series
November 8, 2020
This story picks up soon after the events in Murder at Mile Marker 18. Mallory and Amber are working hard on the cooking lessons and take a casserole to the church picnic where Mallory is right there when a murder occurs. She once again uses her skills that she learned while helping her late husband research his mystery novels. I love this about Mallory. She also tries to keep Alex in the loop about everything she finds (another thing I love about her). Hunch was seriously hurt in the last story so he's still recovering and not able to help Mallory as much but I adore their growing relationship. Wonderful characters in a great setting. So many suspects and a good many twists. I couldn't put this down. I needed to know who and why. Really looking forward to the next installment.
November 9, 2020
I would definitely recommend this book to any avid cozy mystery fan. Dealing with loss and trying to move on in your life is always hard. Finding the right people to help you through it all, can even be harder. You may find them in the weirdest of places and situations. Who doesn't love a little mystery to bring that spark back into your life? I can't wait to read Denise's next book in this series. What is Mallory up to next?
December 1, 2020
This is the second book in the Mallory Beck cozy murder series and I loved it! Mallory is one who is naturally curious about murders because she had helped her deceased husband by doing research for the murder mysteries he was famous for. So when a bride to be drops dead at the same park where Mallory is at for a church picnic, who wouldn’t want to know whodunnit! As usual her two best friends to consult about it are Alex and Amber. Of course you better not leave Hunch out unless you want to get scratched up as a result of your negligence!
Denise tells a story that is both entertaining and exciting as this foursome puts their heads together to sniff out clues that will expose the guilty party. It’s fun to let the clues add up as suspects are questioned and see if you can determine the culprit before the revealing takes place!
I highly recommend this new cozy series to fans old and young alike who also like cats because Hunch is definitely NOT a dog!
There is only one book before this one so please get Murder at Mile Marker 18 either before this one or at the same time so you can be at the same page we all are who are anxiously awaiting book three to come out now!
Do yourself a favor and get started on this wonderful series today-your “self” will thank you for it for it is a series I know you I’ll love as much as all her readers already do! Come join the club-the more the merrier!
Denise tells a story that is both entertaining and exciting as this foursome puts their heads together to sniff out clues that will expose the guilty party. It’s fun to let the clues add up as suspects are questioned and see if you can determine the culprit before the revealing takes place!
I highly recommend this new cozy series to fans old and young alike who also like cats because Hunch is definitely NOT a dog!
There is only one book before this one so please get Murder at Mile Marker 18 either before this one or at the same time so you can be at the same page we all are who are anxiously awaiting book three to come out now!
Do yourself a favor and get started on this wonderful series today-your “self” will thank you for it for it is a series I know you I’ll love as much as all her readers already do! Come join the club-the more the merrier!
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August 6, 2022Just over a week before this book goes out to the world! I'm excited (and a little nervous!) Here's a little excerpt from the first chapter. Let me know what you think!
ALMOST NINE MONTHS AND I still felt like a flake of eggshell in a bowl of yolks every time I attended a social gathering alone. At least today I’d made an extra effort to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions. Even if I did something brainless like leave the house without brushing my hair or putting on pants, I’d be meeting Amber, my new fifteen-year-old BFF, who, with any hope, wouldn’t let me traipse through a public park in my underwear.
I collected the cheesy bacon and potato casserole from my kitchen and then said goodbye to Hunch, a cat with an attitude if I’d ever met one. He had recently broken his leg and dislocated his hip, so I was trying to have some grace for his bristly attitude. I compensated for his growls with my perkiest voice.
“I’ll only be gone a couple of hours,” I singsonged to him.
Cooper, my late husband and Hunch’s true owner, used to talk to him aloud constantly. In fact, with Cooper, it had usually been less like talking to a cat and more like some kind of intelligent three-point discussion. I hadn’t quite gotten comfortable with having conversations with my feline roommate yet, but then again, I didn’t need his help in plotting my next mystery novel like Cooper had.
“Maybe I’ll even bring Amber back with me,” I told Hunch, and this earned me an uptick of his whiskers.
Amber had been visiting me almost every day since we’d solved the murder of her dad together and brought the guilty parties to justice. She always came around under the guise of a cooking lesson—I’d promised to teach her how to prepare everything from baked sourdough to ratatouille, and in fact, she’d assembled today’s casserole pretty much on her own with only my instructions from the kitchen table. I’d simply popped it into the oven this morning to warm it up, filling my kitchen with the scents of savory sharp cheddar and apple-smoked bacon. Amber had wanted to make a casserole with bacon in it, and while I was as big of a fan of crispy pork as the next girl, we’d had to play around a little with the recipe so the salty flavor hadn’t overpowered the rest. We’d started with nugget potatoes, but in the end, I’d suggested adding a couple of Yukon gold and Vitelotte purple potatoes to round out the flavors and add some vibrant color.
In truth, Amber probably did only show up for the cooking lessons. Me? I’d do almost anything for the company, and Hunch, I was fairly certain, would do almost anything to have someone other than me in his lair.
I left my cantankerous cat in my wake and headed for Cooper’s Jeep with Amber’s casserole in hand. After my husband’s death, I’d driven his Jeep for months, trying to find the powerful feeling he’d claimed to have gotten from driving it, but today I chose it because of the FOR SALE sign posted prominently in the back window. I didn’t often spend much of the daytime out in public, but today at the park would be the perfect opportunity to get lots of eyes on it. Surprisingly, posting the FOR SALE sign in the vehicle had made me feel the strongest I had felt in the last eight and a half months since I lost my true strength—Cooper.
I took deep breaths to steady myself on my ten-minute drive to Bateman Park. I kept telling myself it shouldn’t take this much bravery to simply leave my house. It would certainly have been easy—too easy—to back out on attending the annual church picnic if I hadn’t made a commitment to Amber. She had originally asked me to go with her because she didn’t think her mom would be up for it. As of last night, though, it turned out her mom wanted to go, and so that left me still feeling committed, but meeting her there instead of picking her up. I hoped these solo outings would eventually get easier with time and practice.
I turned the corner onto Bateman Road and discovered my next problem. Finding parking might prove as difficult as interpreting my cat’s growls. The picnic was supposed to start at eleven, in lieu of today’s church service, and it was already five to. I didn’t like to be late, especially with someone meeting me, but nevertheless, I turned the corner and drove farther from the park in search of a space big enough for this giant gas guzzler.
I should have expected as much on such a beautiful day, but most of the time, my brain still wasn’t as quick on the uptake about normal life situations as it used to be. As I wove around various back streets, I passed plenty of people walking toward the park, arms loaded with lawn chairs, blankets, and food. I recognized one couple—Marv and Donna Mayberry—which only served to increase my already racing heart. Chatting with couples after losing your spouse felt a little like driving a three-wheeled car. Marv worked long hours, so it was more common to have one-on-one time with Donna, but apparently not today. Some people strolling toward the park wore dresses and suits, and I looked down at my peach T-shirt and denim capris, wondering if there was some kind of church picnic dress code I wasn’t aware of.
At least Amber would be here somewhere, and I couldn’t in my wildest dreams imagine her showing up to the park in a fancy dress. I’d yet to see her in something more formal than a hoodie and cut-offs. It was just a matter of finding her. Up the next block, I finally found a space big enough for the Jeep.
Cooper had kept a couple of lawn chairs in the back of his Jeep for as long as he’d owned it. They hadn’t been used in over a year, but it was time to get the creaks out of at least one of them. I’d come back for the other if Amber hadn’t brought her own. Thankfully, they had backpack straps on them, so I grabbed the red one on top and slung it onto my back. Then I reached for my purse, complete with suntan lotion and bug spray, and finally for the warm casserole. The scent of salty goodness wafted up toward me as I adjusted the lid. Now that it was fresh out of the oven, the flavors had baked into one another, the melted cheese had rounded it out, and it smelled amazing.
Foot traffic thickened as I strode closer toward Bateman Park, and I kept my eyes peeled for Amber and her mom. They both had auburn hair and were both striking in different ways—Amber with her big-eyed attitude and her mom with her bouffant hairstyle—so they shouldn’t be hard to spot.
Before I could find them, I rounded a small hill to get into the park, and a flurry of activity captured my attention. Tables were being assembled with food under one of the two giant park shelters, kids chased each other around the playground, and at least a dozen carnival games were being erected between the food shelter and a big open field. I’d been happy when Amber told me our contribution to the day would be food because that sounded much more up my alley than setting up and manning a ring toss or a kiddie pool fishing pond.
I surveyed the nearly one hundred heads of those either helping set up or involved in clustered conversations, but Amber and her mom weren’t among them. The giant shelter on my left consisted of a large wooden gazebo with a cement floor and a half dozen picnic tables under the overhang. The tables wouldn’t have nearly enough seating for our congregation, but other church members busily set up oblong tables and chairs from the church basement all around the perimeter of the shelter.
The one other shelter in the park stood about fifty feet away, and this one had rows of white chairs lined up in front of the cement area and white tulle decorating the front rafters of the shelter. A nearby table overflowed with wrapped gifts. It looked like preparations for a wedding. Two men in suits straightened the twenty-or-so rows of chairs, and many of the formally-dressed folks I’d seen on the sidewalk milled around that side of the park. I let out a breath, glad I hadn’t dressed inappropriately for the picnic after all.
As I headed for the church’s picnic shelter where the hot food had been placed, a nearby commotion caught my eye. Pastor Jeff was in the midst of a hushed argument with a lady I didn’t recognize. She couldn’t have been more than five feet tall, but what she lacked in height, she made up for with her large pregnant belly, stretched tight under a pale pink dress.
She flapped her arms to the sides, and as I moved closer, I started to make out the problem. “The bride and groom expected to have the whole park to themselves. It’s their special day and they’ll be here any minute! I’m their wedding planner. How do you think this is going to look for me?”
Pastor Jeff pushed his hands toward the ground and spoke in his usual calming and authoritative tone. “I understand your concern, Mrs. Winters, and I have no idea where the mix-up happened, but let’s just take a deep breath and see what we can do.” Pastor Jeff angled away from the pregnant lady, toward where the carnival games were being assembled. He quickly located his wife and called, “Emily? Let’s try to keep all the games closer to the playground, all right?”
Between Pastor Jeff and his wife stood Marv and Donna Mayberry. They were one of the first couples Cooper and I had met at Honeysuckle Grove Community Church. Donna leaned into her husband and whispered something, likely an embellished rumor. And just like that, the giant game of telephone that always seemed to start with gossiping Donna Mayberry had begun.
“I don’t care how much you move those games,” the pregnant wedding planner said in an exasperated tone to Pastor Jeff. “The Bankses and the Albrights are still not going to appreciate kids running through their ceremony, and all the noise a church picnic will generate. They’re not going to want these people they don’t know hanging around their wedding!” She flapped her arms again. Pastor Jeff took a breath, about to speak, but she interrupted him. “Look, I don’t know how the municipal office could think this park is big enough for both a wedding and a church picnic, but it’s just not. I’m calling them right this second to sort this out.”
I couldn’t imagine the municipal office being open on a Sunday, but she pulled out a cell phone and marched away with it, not giving Pastor Jeff a chance to respond. That left our pastor staring straight at me, the only other person in the immediate vicinity. The deep grooves of his face told me he wanted to find a solution as much as the wedding planner did.
And like the last time I’d seen Pastor Jeff looking helpless, I wanted to do what I could to take that pained look off of his face.
“What can I do to help?” I asked.
ALMOST NINE MONTHS AND I still felt like a flake of eggshell in a bowl of yolks every time I attended a social gathering alone. At least today I’d made an extra effort to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions. Even if I did something brainless like leave the house without brushing my hair or putting on pants, I’d be meeting Amber, my new fifteen-year-old BFF, who, with any hope, wouldn’t let me traipse through a public park in my underwear.
I collected the cheesy bacon and potato casserole from my kitchen and then said goodbye to Hunch, a cat with an attitude if I’d ever met one. He had recently broken his leg and dislocated his hip, so I was trying to have some grace for his bristly attitude. I compensated for his growls with my perkiest voice.
“I’ll only be gone a couple of hours,” I singsonged to him.
Cooper, my late husband and Hunch’s true owner, used to talk to him aloud constantly. In fact, with Cooper, it had usually been less like talking to a cat and more like some kind of intelligent three-point discussion. I hadn’t quite gotten comfortable with having conversations with my feline roommate yet, but then again, I didn’t need his help in plotting my next mystery novel like Cooper had.
“Maybe I’ll even bring Amber back with me,” I told Hunch, and this earned me an uptick of his whiskers.
Amber had been visiting me almost every day since we’d solved the murder of her dad together and brought the guilty parties to justice. She always came around under the guise of a cooking lesson—I’d promised to teach her how to prepare everything from baked sourdough to ratatouille, and in fact, she’d assembled today’s casserole pretty much on her own with only my instructions from the kitchen table. I’d simply popped it into the oven this morning to warm it up, filling my kitchen with the scents of savory sharp cheddar and apple-smoked bacon. Amber had wanted to make a casserole with bacon in it, and while I was as big of a fan of crispy pork as the next girl, we’d had to play around a little with the recipe so the salty flavor hadn’t overpowered the rest. We’d started with nugget potatoes, but in the end, I’d suggested adding a couple of Yukon gold and Vitelotte purple potatoes to round out the flavors and add some vibrant color.
In truth, Amber probably did only show up for the cooking lessons. Me? I’d do almost anything for the company, and Hunch, I was fairly certain, would do almost anything to have someone other than me in his lair.
I left my cantankerous cat in my wake and headed for Cooper’s Jeep with Amber’s casserole in hand. After my husband’s death, I’d driven his Jeep for months, trying to find the powerful feeling he’d claimed to have gotten from driving it, but today I chose it because of the FOR SALE sign posted prominently in the back window. I didn’t often spend much of the daytime out in public, but today at the park would be the perfect opportunity to get lots of eyes on it. Surprisingly, posting the FOR SALE sign in the vehicle had made me feel the strongest I had felt in the last eight and a half months since I lost my true strength—Cooper.
I took deep breaths to steady myself on my ten-minute drive to Bateman Park. I kept telling myself it shouldn’t take this much bravery to simply leave my house. It would certainly have been easy—too easy—to back out on attending the annual church picnic if I hadn’t made a commitment to Amber. She had originally asked me to go with her because she didn’t think her mom would be up for it. As of last night, though, it turned out her mom wanted to go, and so that left me still feeling committed, but meeting her there instead of picking her up. I hoped these solo outings would eventually get easier with time and practice.
I turned the corner onto Bateman Road and discovered my next problem. Finding parking might prove as difficult as interpreting my cat’s growls. The picnic was supposed to start at eleven, in lieu of today’s church service, and it was already five to. I didn’t like to be late, especially with someone meeting me, but nevertheless, I turned the corner and drove farther from the park in search of a space big enough for this giant gas guzzler.
I should have expected as much on such a beautiful day, but most of the time, my brain still wasn’t as quick on the uptake about normal life situations as it used to be. As I wove around various back streets, I passed plenty of people walking toward the park, arms loaded with lawn chairs, blankets, and food. I recognized one couple—Marv and Donna Mayberry—which only served to increase my already racing heart. Chatting with couples after losing your spouse felt a little like driving a three-wheeled car. Marv worked long hours, so it was more common to have one-on-one time with Donna, but apparently not today. Some people strolling toward the park wore dresses and suits, and I looked down at my peach T-shirt and denim capris, wondering if there was some kind of church picnic dress code I wasn’t aware of.
At least Amber would be here somewhere, and I couldn’t in my wildest dreams imagine her showing up to the park in a fancy dress. I’d yet to see her in something more formal than a hoodie and cut-offs. It was just a matter of finding her. Up the next block, I finally found a space big enough for the Jeep.
Cooper had kept a couple of lawn chairs in the back of his Jeep for as long as he’d owned it. They hadn’t been used in over a year, but it was time to get the creaks out of at least one of them. I’d come back for the other if Amber hadn’t brought her own. Thankfully, they had backpack straps on them, so I grabbed the red one on top and slung it onto my back. Then I reached for my purse, complete with suntan lotion and bug spray, and finally for the warm casserole. The scent of salty goodness wafted up toward me as I adjusted the lid. Now that it was fresh out of the oven, the flavors had baked into one another, the melted cheese had rounded it out, and it smelled amazing.
Foot traffic thickened as I strode closer toward Bateman Park, and I kept my eyes peeled for Amber and her mom. They both had auburn hair and were both striking in different ways—Amber with her big-eyed attitude and her mom with her bouffant hairstyle—so they shouldn’t be hard to spot.
Before I could find them, I rounded a small hill to get into the park, and a flurry of activity captured my attention. Tables were being assembled with food under one of the two giant park shelters, kids chased each other around the playground, and at least a dozen carnival games were being erected between the food shelter and a big open field. I’d been happy when Amber told me our contribution to the day would be food because that sounded much more up my alley than setting up and manning a ring toss or a kiddie pool fishing pond.
I surveyed the nearly one hundred heads of those either helping set up or involved in clustered conversations, but Amber and her mom weren’t among them. The giant shelter on my left consisted of a large wooden gazebo with a cement floor and a half dozen picnic tables under the overhang. The tables wouldn’t have nearly enough seating for our congregation, but other church members busily set up oblong tables and chairs from the church basement all around the perimeter of the shelter.
The one other shelter in the park stood about fifty feet away, and this one had rows of white chairs lined up in front of the cement area and white tulle decorating the front rafters of the shelter. A nearby table overflowed with wrapped gifts. It looked like preparations for a wedding. Two men in suits straightened the twenty-or-so rows of chairs, and many of the formally-dressed folks I’d seen on the sidewalk milled around that side of the park. I let out a breath, glad I hadn’t dressed inappropriately for the picnic after all.
As I headed for the church’s picnic shelter where the hot food had been placed, a nearby commotion caught my eye. Pastor Jeff was in the midst of a hushed argument with a lady I didn’t recognize. She couldn’t have been more than five feet tall, but what she lacked in height, she made up for with her large pregnant belly, stretched tight under a pale pink dress.
She flapped her arms to the sides, and as I moved closer, I started to make out the problem. “The bride and groom expected to have the whole park to themselves. It’s their special day and they’ll be here any minute! I’m their wedding planner. How do you think this is going to look for me?”
Pastor Jeff pushed his hands toward the ground and spoke in his usual calming and authoritative tone. “I understand your concern, Mrs. Winters, and I have no idea where the mix-up happened, but let’s just take a deep breath and see what we can do.” Pastor Jeff angled away from the pregnant lady, toward where the carnival games were being assembled. He quickly located his wife and called, “Emily? Let’s try to keep all the games closer to the playground, all right?”
Between Pastor Jeff and his wife stood Marv and Donna Mayberry. They were one of the first couples Cooper and I had met at Honeysuckle Grove Community Church. Donna leaned into her husband and whispered something, likely an embellished rumor. And just like that, the giant game of telephone that always seemed to start with gossiping Donna Mayberry had begun.
“I don’t care how much you move those games,” the pregnant wedding planner said in an exasperated tone to Pastor Jeff. “The Bankses and the Albrights are still not going to appreciate kids running through their ceremony, and all the noise a church picnic will generate. They’re not going to want these people they don’t know hanging around their wedding!” She flapped her arms again. Pastor Jeff took a breath, about to speak, but she interrupted him. “Look, I don’t know how the municipal office could think this park is big enough for both a wedding and a church picnic, but it’s just not. I’m calling them right this second to sort this out.”
I couldn’t imagine the municipal office being open on a Sunday, but she pulled out a cell phone and marched away with it, not giving Pastor Jeff a chance to respond. That left our pastor staring straight at me, the only other person in the immediate vicinity. The deep grooves of his face told me he wanted to find a solution as much as the wedding planner did.
And like the last time I’d seen Pastor Jeff looking helpless, I wanted to do what I could to take that pained look off of his face.
“What can I do to help?” I asked.
November 17, 2020
Mallory Beck had no desire to become Honeysuckle Grove’s next free-lance detective, yet she started off her first case with delivering a casserole to a grieving family and ended up solving the crime with the help of the sarcastic teenager Amber, the cop with kind-hearted green eyes going by “Alex” now, and a cat named Hunch. So there should be no issue with delivering another casserole, right? This one was for the potluck at the annual church picnic at Bateman Park, so everything should be just fine, except for the double-booked church picnic and park wedding venues. And then the bride-to-be, Candi Banks, drops dead at the same park where everyone has gathered for the church picnic and panic ensues! Mallory will need to gather her troops and find out who helped the bride into the hereafter with a toxic plant!
This was the second story in this cozy series with lots of humor throughout. I liked the characters, their interactions, and the pacing of the story line. Grab your copy and see how Mallory handles her second big case!
This was the second story in this cozy series with lots of humor throughout. I liked the characters, their interactions, and the pacing of the story line. Grab your copy and see how Mallory handles her second big case!
February 19, 2021
One Sentence Summary: Mallory expected to have a fun time at the church picnic with her young friend Amber, but a wedding was scheduled at the park at the same time as the picnic, making for one very unhappy bride and the perfect opportunity for murder.
I adored the first book in this series, Murder at Mile Marker 18, so was thrilled when Denise Jaden immediately offered the second book for me to review. I love a good cozy, and, seriously, extra points for culinary cozies that also provide recipes. The first book was so much fun, the characters so great together, and the grumpy cat so cute that I couldn't jump on this one fast enough. For as short as these mysteries seem to be (or maybe I just devour them so fast they seem short), there's really a ton packed on, and, boy, do they deliver!
The Plot: A Great Follow-Up to the First Book
Murder at the Church Picnic picks up right where Murder at Mile Marker 18 left off. At the end of the first book, Amber had invited Mallory to attend a church picnic with her, along with a casserole. Of course, Mallory is still mourning her husband's death, so going out is a little nerve wracking for her, so it's a good thing Amber has enough spunk for the both of them.
But things quickly get out of hand when it turns out a wedding was scheduled for the same time and place as the picnic. The pastor tries his best to soothe the angry bride, but she's young, wealthy, and spoiled, so demands things go her way. Which also leaves open a huge opportunity for an angry someone to carry out a seemingly perfect murder with everyone watching.
As the faithful and loving widow of a popular mystery writer, Mallory can't seem but get herself involved, especially since her teenage friend Amber, her cop (and childhood crush) friend Alex, and her late husband's stubborn and hostile cat Hunch all seem ready to pull her in.
There's nothing I didn't love about this next installment in the series. Well, okay, I wish it had been longer and I wish Alex had been given more page time, but, other than that, the story, the mystery, was perfect. The thing about this series is that it seems to happen very quickly. Mallory unexpectedly finds herself falling into a crime and her cat makes her solve it (really, he does, and it's so much fun to read about his exchanges with Mallory) and then the case spirals from there like a whirlpool. Absolutely no scene is superfluous and neither does the story seem to slow down and take a deep breath. A shallow breather is given now and then so Mallory, and the reader, can process everything with the cat and sometimes a human, and then it's a headlong dive back into it. It makes this a very quick read, but also leaves me feeling quite satisfied that I got a full mystery with plenty of red herrings and just enough leads.
In this second installment of the series, Mallory is mostly on her own while Amber starts school and Alex is working hard on making detective. I liked how it incorporated the things she would know as the widow of a mystery writer to help her solve it and made her rely more on herself and her knowledge. The case was a lot of fun with a lot of threads tied around it tugging in so many different directions. Like with the first book, I never felt like I was a step ahead of Mallory and loved coming to realizations alongside her, which was probably due in part to the quick pace. Similar to the first book, it was relatively easy to figure out who did it, but there was just enough, if not a little more, danger to keep things interesting.
The Characters: More Focused on Mallory
With Amber starting school and Alex busy trying to make detective, Mallory is mostly on her own, so it was nice to spend more time with her. Though she's still grieving her husband's death, she's trying harder to get out more, mostly thanks to Amber, but also because she seems cautiously nosy and has a hard time stopping it. I got the feeling she genuinely wanted to be helpful and to have a task to keep her going, but she did have a lot of good questions and a need to know what really happened.
I did miss Amber and Alex in Murder at the Church Picnic, though I was delighted they were still just as charming and Amber was still very much a take charge kind of personality. With them off page most of the time, it gave Hunch the cat more to do. I adored all of Mallory's conversations with the cat. There's a cute, albeit begrudging, affection between the two, but only when Hunch gets a whiff of a mystery. He's definitely aptly named and the perfect sidekick for Mallory, especially in this novel.
The Setting: Expanded the Town Just Enough
As in the first book, Murder at the Church Picnic is set in the same town in West Virginia and I really felt like the town opened up a little more. Mallory spent more time out and about trying to solve the mystery and so found herself in rather interesting parts of town. There were all the usual kinds of places, the church, the park, even a community college. But a more rural area was also introduced where a family high on Mallory's suspect list lives very simply. It was fun to read about all the different parts of the town and get to know it a little better. It was also nice to see Mallory getting out more and going further afield without Amber.
Overall: A Delightful Cozy with Just Enough Danger
Murder at the Church Picnic was just as much fun as the first book. I especially loved that the danger was really front and center, making it feel a little more dangerous than the first book where the murder had already taken place. I loved getting to know Mallory better, though I wish there had been more food, but Hunch's scenes are not to be missed and kept me happy. This was a fun, quick cozy read with a mystery that had just enough threads to keep things interesting without tipping over into unmanageable. Overall, it's artfully done and I can't wait to see what the next book has in store for Mallory, Amber, and Alex.
Thank you to Denise Jaden for a review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
I adored the first book in this series, Murder at Mile Marker 18, so was thrilled when Denise Jaden immediately offered the second book for me to review. I love a good cozy, and, seriously, extra points for culinary cozies that also provide recipes. The first book was so much fun, the characters so great together, and the grumpy cat so cute that I couldn't jump on this one fast enough. For as short as these mysteries seem to be (or maybe I just devour them so fast they seem short), there's really a ton packed on, and, boy, do they deliver!
The Plot: A Great Follow-Up to the First Book
Murder at the Church Picnic picks up right where Murder at Mile Marker 18 left off. At the end of the first book, Amber had invited Mallory to attend a church picnic with her, along with a casserole. Of course, Mallory is still mourning her husband's death, so going out is a little nerve wracking for her, so it's a good thing Amber has enough spunk for the both of them.
But things quickly get out of hand when it turns out a wedding was scheduled for the same time and place as the picnic. The pastor tries his best to soothe the angry bride, but she's young, wealthy, and spoiled, so demands things go her way. Which also leaves open a huge opportunity for an angry someone to carry out a seemingly perfect murder with everyone watching.
As the faithful and loving widow of a popular mystery writer, Mallory can't seem but get herself involved, especially since her teenage friend Amber, her cop (and childhood crush) friend Alex, and her late husband's stubborn and hostile cat Hunch all seem ready to pull her in.
There's nothing I didn't love about this next installment in the series. Well, okay, I wish it had been longer and I wish Alex had been given more page time, but, other than that, the story, the mystery, was perfect. The thing about this series is that it seems to happen very quickly. Mallory unexpectedly finds herself falling into a crime and her cat makes her solve it (really, he does, and it's so much fun to read about his exchanges with Mallory) and then the case spirals from there like a whirlpool. Absolutely no scene is superfluous and neither does the story seem to slow down and take a deep breath. A shallow breather is given now and then so Mallory, and the reader, can process everything with the cat and sometimes a human, and then it's a headlong dive back into it. It makes this a very quick read, but also leaves me feeling quite satisfied that I got a full mystery with plenty of red herrings and just enough leads.
In this second installment of the series, Mallory is mostly on her own while Amber starts school and Alex is working hard on making detective. I liked how it incorporated the things she would know as the widow of a mystery writer to help her solve it and made her rely more on herself and her knowledge. The case was a lot of fun with a lot of threads tied around it tugging in so many different directions. Like with the first book, I never felt like I was a step ahead of Mallory and loved coming to realizations alongside her, which was probably due in part to the quick pace. Similar to the first book, it was relatively easy to figure out who did it, but there was just enough, if not a little more, danger to keep things interesting.
The Characters: More Focused on Mallory
With Amber starting school and Alex busy trying to make detective, Mallory is mostly on her own, so it was nice to spend more time with her. Though she's still grieving her husband's death, she's trying harder to get out more, mostly thanks to Amber, but also because she seems cautiously nosy and has a hard time stopping it. I got the feeling she genuinely wanted to be helpful and to have a task to keep her going, but she did have a lot of good questions and a need to know what really happened.
I did miss Amber and Alex in Murder at the Church Picnic, though I was delighted they were still just as charming and Amber was still very much a take charge kind of personality. With them off page most of the time, it gave Hunch the cat more to do. I adored all of Mallory's conversations with the cat. There's a cute, albeit begrudging, affection between the two, but only when Hunch gets a whiff of a mystery. He's definitely aptly named and the perfect sidekick for Mallory, especially in this novel.
The Setting: Expanded the Town Just Enough
As in the first book, Murder at the Church Picnic is set in the same town in West Virginia and I really felt like the town opened up a little more. Mallory spent more time out and about trying to solve the mystery and so found herself in rather interesting parts of town. There were all the usual kinds of places, the church, the park, even a community college. But a more rural area was also introduced where a family high on Mallory's suspect list lives very simply. It was fun to read about all the different parts of the town and get to know it a little better. It was also nice to see Mallory getting out more and going further afield without Amber.
Overall: A Delightful Cozy with Just Enough Danger
Murder at the Church Picnic was just as much fun as the first book. I especially loved that the danger was really front and center, making it feel a little more dangerous than the first book where the murder had already taken place. I loved getting to know Mallory better, though I wish there had been more food, but Hunch's scenes are not to be missed and kept me happy. This was a fun, quick cozy read with a mystery that had just enough threads to keep things interesting without tipping over into unmanageable. Overall, it's artfully done and I can't wait to see what the next book has in store for Mallory, Amber, and Alex.
Thank you to Denise Jaden for a review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 15, 2020
This is the second book on the series. So in this book, Mallory, Amber and Hunch are trying to help the police figure out who killed a woman at the park where the church was having a picnic. I like the fact that Mallory and Amber are still hanging out and cooking together. The two of them are really good for each other in dealing with and moving forward from their losses. Hunch is still recovering from his injuries from the first book. He is one of my favorite characters. I'm also loving the caring, Officer Alex Martinez. He is always there for Mallory. She can definitely use a bit of help in this book, as she gets in way over her head again. I really enjoyed this story. It was a lovely cozy mystery that kept me quite entertained. Can't wait to see what happens next.
I did receive a copy of this book from Booksprout and this is my honest review.
I did receive a copy of this book from Booksprout and this is my honest review.
November 16, 2020
Mallory finds herself back in a town she lived in briefly while growing up
The death of her husband leaves a crotchety old cat for company - except for a teenager whose father’s murder Mallory helped resolved, the only other connections Mallory seems to have are her seventh grade crush Alex, and a bizarre collection of folks from the Community Church
Given the apparent tendency of this charming little town to occasionally kill their own, a pastor and a police officer are not bad buddies to have
An apparent picnic scheduling snafu leaves a few victims- at least one fatal
If Mallory isn’t careful, she might find herself a victim to
Strong friendships and torturous felines
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The death of her husband leaves a crotchety old cat for company - except for a teenager whose father’s murder Mallory helped resolved, the only other connections Mallory seems to have are her seventh grade crush Alex, and a bizarre collection of folks from the Community Church
Given the apparent tendency of this charming little town to occasionally kill their own, a pastor and a police officer are not bad buddies to have
An apparent picnic scheduling snafu leaves a few victims- at least one fatal
If Mallory isn’t careful, she might find herself a victim to
Strong friendships and torturous felines
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 23, 2020
Even better than the first book in the series, which I loved!
This story is fun, entertaining, and even more exciting than the first in the series, Murder at Mile Marker 18. I did not think that would be possible. My admiration and empathy for Mallory Beck have grown even more. Her courage, ingenuity, resourcefulness, and resolve have expanded and deepened as I followed her through this new and even more challenging adventure.
I didn’t anticipate the intricate plot twists and turns. I love a book that can take me on an unexpected and exciting ride.
Equally important was the blossoming relationships continued from the first book. I was hoping that this would be the case. It adds facets and depth to Mallory’s personality and this series. Hunch adds such a delightful touch to the book, and I consider him a full-fledged member of this crime-solving team.
I cannot wait to see what happens next!
This story is fun, entertaining, and even more exciting than the first in the series, Murder at Mile Marker 18. I did not think that would be possible. My admiration and empathy for Mallory Beck have grown even more. Her courage, ingenuity, resourcefulness, and resolve have expanded and deepened as I followed her through this new and even more challenging adventure.
I didn’t anticipate the intricate plot twists and turns. I love a book that can take me on an unexpected and exciting ride.
Equally important was the blossoming relationships continued from the first book. I was hoping that this would be the case. It adds facets and depth to Mallory’s personality and this series. Hunch adds such a delightful touch to the book, and I consider him a full-fledged member of this crime-solving team.
I cannot wait to see what happens next!
November 19, 2020
What was supposed to be a nice family day at the park to raise money ends up a total disaster and someone dead! Seems that the park was overbooked and the young bride isn't about to give up her 'perfect wedding'. Just as she is trying to get someone...the police, involved she falls down and is dead! Everyone thought it was a bee sting...she is deadly allergic, but they found out later that was not the case. Now Mallory is on another murder case with her young BFF Amber and Officer Alex. Can they find out who is the killer and why? I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book from Booksprout.
November 17, 2020
WoW! "Murder At The Church Picnic" - The second book in the series with Mallory Beck, Amber Montrose, Hunch and Alex is once again a terrific cozy mystery. If you enjoy cozies with lots of drama, suspects and lady sleuths this book is for you. I can hardly wait for the next in this series. I did receive an advanced readers copy of this book, but the review is all mine. Denise Jaden keeps you turning the pages! No spoilers in this review.
November 17, 2020
Denise was kind enough to gift me a review copy of Murder at the Church Picnic. While Cozy Mysteries are not my usual fare, I have to say I enjoyed this book from the start!
Denise is an excellent writer; her works flow effortlessly, and this one is no exception
If you enjoy books in this genre, you'll LOVE Murder at the Church Picnic.
Denise is an excellent writer; her works flow effortlessly, and this one is no exception
If you enjoy books in this genre, you'll LOVE Murder at the Church Picnic.
November 19, 2020
This is the 2nd book I've read written by Denise Jaden; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
November 16, 2020
This is the 2nd book in this series. I believe that the storyline was good and the plot carried well. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in a good read no matter the age. I received this ARC in exchange for a voluntary honest review which I have freely written here
November 18, 2020
I loved the characters. I found them extremely entertaining. I think that this was a perfect cozy mystery. It allowed me to escape reality.
I received this as an arc from booksprout and freely left this review.
I received this as an arc from booksprout and freely left this review.
November 19, 2020
A really wonderful cozy mystery. Mallory is a amazing character. Loved reading this book...
Author Denise Jaden has done a amazing job on writing this book. Highly recommend...
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Author Denise Jaden has done a amazing job on writing this book. Highly recommend...
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 25, 2020
Murder at the Church Picnic is the second book in A Mallory Beck Cozy Culinary Caper series and is a great addition to the series. This book has wonderful characters, murder, mystery, friendship, and a furry feline. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 12, 2020
A wedding was scheduled at the same time as the church picnic. The bride causes a scene and is later murdered. Mallory uses all her skills to investigate the mystery. I especially liked the mentoring partnership Mallory has with Amber.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 23, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. It was very entertaining. It is tge second book in this series. It was very well written and the characters were awesome. I can not wait to read more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 22, 2020
A perfect read for those who love a great cozy mystery. The characters are fun and engaging and easy to love. The story pulls you in and keeps you turning the pages. Definitely recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2020
Already a slow beginning but was expecting more of a twist with this mystery but instead it was just way to obvious and predictable. May be a good mystery for teens though since Mallory's sidekick is teenager Amber but being use to ones with more twist and turns, it fell short for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 28, 2023
https://openbooksociety.com/article/m...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Murder at the Church Picnic is the second book in the delightful Mallory Beck Cozy Culinary Caper series by Denise Jaden. Mallory Beck (the amateur sleuth) along with her new friend from a prior murder she solved, 15-year-old Amber (whom lost her father in the first book), embark upon another adventure in trying to solve a tragedy that occurred at a church picnic. Mallory is giving Amber cooking lessons (lucky for Amber that Mallory has a culinary degree) and still working through the gambit of emotions when one loses a spouse (writer Cooper Beck) prematurely – just nine months ago. I really feel that the two together are helping each other with their own personal losses.
Amber, with assistance from Mallory, has made a casserole to take to a church picnic in Bateman Park. And let me tell you, the description of the casserole has me jonesing for this particular casserole (with three types of potatoes: nugget, a couple of Yukon gold and vitelotte purple potatoes (with a characteristic nutty flavor and smell of chestnuts) and apple-smoked bacon – can you say yummy)! Everything should have been good, except for the fact that the venue at the park was double booked – for the church picnic and a park wedding. Yikes – that spells trouble in a major way (poor Pastor Jeff – trying to placate the bridal party). Unfortunately for the bride-to-be, Candi, she did not make it down the isle to wedded bliss. This certainly played havoc with the church fundraising picnic as well! Did Candi die from a bee sting or was Candi murdered… and on her wedding day? And there you have it – a mystery to be solved!
Another character which I am happy to see again – Hunch, who is recovering from a broken leg and dislocated hip (poor kitty) and this just added to his surly attitude since his human, Cooper, passed away. I can hardly wait for the day when he actually warms up just a wee bit to Mallory. Of course – being a smart individual – I will not hold my breath ☺. His assistance in the solving of the mystery was invaluable. I am delighted at the continued development of the personal relationships that began in book one and are continuing in book two (especially the potential for a romance in the future with Alex? Time will tell).
The depth of these relationships adds to the complexity of this delightful cozy mystery series.
The plot twists and turns kept me engaged throughout and a bit stumped – just the way I like my cozy mysteries. I tend to be light on details here as I want each reader to enjoy the journey as much as I did.
I must also expound upon my enjoyment of Denise Jaden’s writing, which flows well and kept me interested in her storytelling. I cannot wait until I get to start book 3, Murder at the Town Hall.
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Murder at the Church Picnic is the second book in the delightful Mallory Beck Cozy Culinary Caper series by Denise Jaden. Mallory Beck (the amateur sleuth) along with her new friend from a prior murder she solved, 15-year-old Amber (whom lost her father in the first book), embark upon another adventure in trying to solve a tragedy that occurred at a church picnic. Mallory is giving Amber cooking lessons (lucky for Amber that Mallory has a culinary degree) and still working through the gambit of emotions when one loses a spouse (writer Cooper Beck) prematurely – just nine months ago. I really feel that the two together are helping each other with their own personal losses.
Amber, with assistance from Mallory, has made a casserole to take to a church picnic in Bateman Park. And let me tell you, the description of the casserole has me jonesing for this particular casserole (with three types of potatoes: nugget, a couple of Yukon gold and vitelotte purple potatoes (with a characteristic nutty flavor and smell of chestnuts) and apple-smoked bacon – can you say yummy)! Everything should have been good, except for the fact that the venue at the park was double booked – for the church picnic and a park wedding. Yikes – that spells trouble in a major way (poor Pastor Jeff – trying to placate the bridal party). Unfortunately for the bride-to-be, Candi, she did not make it down the isle to wedded bliss. This certainly played havoc with the church fundraising picnic as well! Did Candi die from a bee sting or was Candi murdered… and on her wedding day? And there you have it – a mystery to be solved!
Another character which I am happy to see again – Hunch, who is recovering from a broken leg and dislocated hip (poor kitty) and this just added to his surly attitude since his human, Cooper, passed away. I can hardly wait for the day when he actually warms up just a wee bit to Mallory. Of course – being a smart individual – I will not hold my breath ☺. His assistance in the solving of the mystery was invaluable. I am delighted at the continued development of the personal relationships that began in book one and are continuing in book two (especially the potential for a romance in the future with Alex? Time will tell).
The depth of these relationships adds to the complexity of this delightful cozy mystery series.
The plot twists and turns kept me engaged throughout and a bit stumped – just the way I like my cozy mysteries. I tend to be light on details here as I want each reader to enjoy the journey as much as I did.
I must also expound upon my enjoyment of Denise Jaden’s writing, which flows well and kept me interested in her storytelling. I cannot wait until I get to start book 3, Murder at the Town Hall.
April 18, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. This is the second book in the series and I enjoyed it just as much as the first. So glad I discovered this series.
This book continues on from the first book with Mallory promise to attend a church picnic with her teenage friend Amber. Don't worry you don't need to have read the first book to enjoy, as each book is a standalone mystery and despite the church connection it's not religious or preachy in away. So sit back and get caught up in a good mystery.
I like the characters and am glad Mallory and Amber are still helping each other with there grief (it's not sad, so don't let that put you off either, it's just how they met in the first book and formed a friendship) not to mention helping Alex the not quite detective investigate.
The mystery was good with a lot going on and a number of suspects to keep you guessing. I had no clue who the killer was but it played out at quick pace and come together nicely. Looking forward to the next audio book.
Amber talks Mallory into joining her at the church picnic in the park, only to discover the park in chaos. With the church gathering one side and a wedding on the other, the park is not big enough for both of the children running around with nerf guns . Unable to reschedule the church event the pastor tries to find a compromise but the bride is not happy or willing to back down. That is until she is stung by a bee, when her EpiPen doesn't work she is taken to hospital. It's only after her death that it is discovered that it wasn't a bee sting. When the pastor is struck by the same weapon it seems like the death was a lot more premeditated than first thought. With Alex still being hampered by his boss, Mallory sets out to help him investigate by taking casseroles from the church to the grieving family members. Can she help him discover who would want me he bride dead?
I like the narrator. She helpedt to bring the characters to life before your very eyes and make the story so easy to picture.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
This book continues on from the first book with Mallory promise to attend a church picnic with her teenage friend Amber. Don't worry you don't need to have read the first book to enjoy, as each book is a standalone mystery and despite the church connection it's not religious or preachy in away. So sit back and get caught up in a good mystery.
I like the characters and am glad Mallory and Amber are still helping each other with there grief (it's not sad, so don't let that put you off either, it's just how they met in the first book and formed a friendship) not to mention helping Alex the not quite detective investigate.
The mystery was good with a lot going on and a number of suspects to keep you guessing. I had no clue who the killer was but it played out at quick pace and come together nicely. Looking forward to the next audio book.
Amber talks Mallory into joining her at the church picnic in the park, only to discover the park in chaos. With the church gathering one side and a wedding on the other, the park is not big enough for both of the children running around with nerf guns . Unable to reschedule the church event the pastor tries to find a compromise but the bride is not happy or willing to back down. That is until she is stung by a bee, when her EpiPen doesn't work she is taken to hospital. It's only after her death that it is discovered that it wasn't a bee sting. When the pastor is struck by the same weapon it seems like the death was a lot more premeditated than first thought. With Alex still being hampered by his boss, Mallory sets out to help him investigate by taking casseroles from the church to the grieving family members. Can she help him discover who would want me he bride dead?
I like the narrator. She helpedt to bring the characters to life before your very eyes and make the story so easy to picture.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
February 13, 2022
Great book!!!!
This series is getting better each book!!!!
Mallory is very curious person, and one of these days she won't get out of her jams!
As long as Alex Martinez is around she should be alright.
This gets bad when there are two parties show up at the same park area that is supposed to be for only one.
The church picnic and a wedding was supposed to be only one or the other. As the church people were setting up all the activities for the children, the bride of the wedding party is furious at seeing all these people in shorts and tee shirts, kids running around. Candidate the bride starts yelling at Mrs. Winters the wedding planner why all these people are there.
Pastor Jeff is confused about why the whole area was not rented when they the whole area every year. Troy the church Treasurer was supposed to rent the area, he tries to explain, but things get out of hand, and the bride ends up hurt, and everything stops with both wedding and church picnic stop and pack up and go. People start to question what happened and why, who would do such a thing.
With Mallory there helping at the church picnic, she feels the need to start helping and so does Amber her teenage sleuth partner, to ask questions to find answers to help police officer Alex Martinez solve the case.
Mallory does it again, getting in great danger.
You read to find out.
This series is getting better each book!!!!
Mallory is very curious person, and one of these days she won't get out of her jams!
As long as Alex Martinez is around she should be alright.
This gets bad when there are two parties show up at the same park area that is supposed to be for only one.
The church picnic and a wedding was supposed to be only one or the other. As the church people were setting up all the activities for the children, the bride of the wedding party is furious at seeing all these people in shorts and tee shirts, kids running around. Candidate the bride starts yelling at Mrs. Winters the wedding planner why all these people are there.
Pastor Jeff is confused about why the whole area was not rented when they the whole area every year. Troy the church Treasurer was supposed to rent the area, he tries to explain, but things get out of hand, and the bride ends up hurt, and everything stops with both wedding and church picnic stop and pack up and go. People start to question what happened and why, who would do such a thing.
With Mallory there helping at the church picnic, she feels the need to start helping and so does Amber her teenage sleuth partner, to ask questions to find answers to help police officer Alex Martinez solve the case.
Mallory does it again, getting in great danger.
You read to find out.
October 26, 2021
I so enjoyed reading the first book in this series, "Murder at Mile Marker 18," that I immediately started reading the second book. I was not disappointed.
This time Mallory promised Amber to go to the church picnic. When she arrives she noticed another party was also using the venue. It was a wedding. The bride was very upset that her wedding was going to be ruined by the people at the church picnic with the kids running around. She gets into a heated argument with the church member who booked the same venue on the same day as her wedding and all of a sudden the bride falls to the ground. Every one thinks she was stung by a bee as she was allergic to bee stings. She dies en-route to the hospital and upon examination of her body they find out it wasn't a bee sting. She was murdered!
Once again, Mallory, Amber, officer Alex Martinez, along with Hunch the cat start looking into the murder.
Another great read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Highly recommend it! On to book 3.
This time Mallory promised Amber to go to the church picnic. When she arrives she noticed another party was also using the venue. It was a wedding. The bride was very upset that her wedding was going to be ruined by the people at the church picnic with the kids running around. She gets into a heated argument with the church member who booked the same venue on the same day as her wedding and all of a sudden the bride falls to the ground. Every one thinks she was stung by a bee as she was allergic to bee stings. She dies en-route to the hospital and upon examination of her body they find out it wasn't a bee sting. She was murdered!
Once again, Mallory, Amber, officer Alex Martinez, along with Hunch the cat start looking into the murder.
Another great read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Highly recommend it! On to book 3.
August 23, 2021
This book is way out of my comfort zone, but I read it as part of a reading challenge. For someone who regularly enjoys the cozy mystery genre, this one will undoubtedly rate higher. The writing is comfortable and decent, with a story that's easy to follow.
The plot is nice and fast-paced, with a low to moderate intrigue level. The characters are colorful, but not necessarily believable. There is a LOT that occurs with regard to the protagonist and her 15-year-old sidekick that felt fairly stretched and worth of an eye roll or two. However, it is a light and quick read that fits well in the cozy mystery genre and is admittedly a good palate cleanser.
I won't be continuing with the series simply because this isn't a genre I gravitate towards, but it would be a decent series for those who are looking for a cozy read.
The plot is nice and fast-paced, with a low to moderate intrigue level. The characters are colorful, but not necessarily believable. There is a LOT that occurs with regard to the protagonist and her 15-year-old sidekick that felt fairly stretched and worth of an eye roll or two. However, it is a light and quick read that fits well in the cozy mystery genre and is admittedly a good palate cleanser.
I won't be continuing with the series simply because this isn't a genre I gravitate towards, but it would be a decent series for those who are looking for a cozy read.
September 28, 2021
The 2nd book in this lovely cozy mystery series sees Mallory meeting Amber and her Mum at the local park for a Church picnic. However, as usual, things don't goi ro plan, starting with the fact the park is also booked for a wedding of a local, wealthy family.
When a member of the bridal party is found dead, Mallory is yet again called upon to help by her friend from schooldays and now Police Officer, Alex Martinez.
Of course, Amber gets involved, (after losing her Father recently, and her Mum not really participating in life at the present time) she spends alot of her time with Mallory and Hunch, Mallory's Cat. Hunch is a talented Cat as he helped to solve Amber's Dad's murder.
Really good storyline to this book, twists and turns towards the end of it.
I really enjoy reading these books, easily read in a couple of hours and are best read in order of publication.
When a member of the bridal party is found dead, Mallory is yet again called upon to help by her friend from schooldays and now Police Officer, Alex Martinez.
Of course, Amber gets involved, (after losing her Father recently, and her Mum not really participating in life at the present time) she spends alot of her time with Mallory and Hunch, Mallory's Cat. Hunch is a talented Cat as he helped to solve Amber's Dad's murder.
Really good storyline to this book, twists and turns towards the end of it.
I really enjoy reading these books, easily read in a couple of hours and are best read in order of publication.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2025
Sequels are often disappointing, but not in this case. I think I enjoyed book two even better than book one. Widowed Mallory and teenaged Amber continue to bond over cooking, while trying to solve a murder that happened right in front of them at the church picnic. I thought I had the murderer picked out by the end of chapter two. Boy, was I wrong!
A good, entertaining read with likeable characters and just enough suspense. My only complaint? It's too short. Good thing I've already bought book three.
A good, entertaining read with likeable characters and just enough suspense. My only complaint? It's too short. Good thing I've already bought book three.
March 24, 2026
This was a great little book. I found it because for a reading challenge I needed a book with a picnic basket on the front - which was harder to find than I realized. But I stumbled upon this book and it was a gem! It is well written, and a good mystery, and some good characters. This is a second book in a series - and while it was fine to read it without reading the first, it might have helped a little bit with background on the characters. But only a little. Author did a good job not adding too much to this book to make it impossible to follow if you don't read in order.
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