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Cupcake Bakery Mystery #13
For Batter or Worse
The Fairy Tale Cupcake crew must discover the truth behind a death sprinkled with suspicion before Mel and Joe can say I do", in the thirteenth Cupcake Bakery Mystery from New York Times bestselling author Jenn McKinlay.
Life is sweet and business is booming at the Fairy Tale Cupcakes bakery--and the fact that Mel and Joe are getting married is the icing on the cake. Their reception will be held at the swanky resort where Oz works as the pastry chef. The wedding planning is all fun-fetti and games until Mel and Joe meet the head chef at the resort who has been making Oz's life miserable. When the eccentric chef insults Mel's bakery, Oz gets into a blowout argument with the culinary prima donna.
Things turn extra sour when the chef is murdered, and Oz is the police's main suspect. As the countdown to the wedding day begins, Mel, Joe, and the rest of the Fairy Tale Cupcake crew must sift through clues to catch the real killer and clear Oz's name before their wedding plans are totally battered and baked.
Life is sweet and business is booming at the Fairy Tale Cupcakes bakery--and the fact that Mel and Joe are getting married is the icing on the cake. Their reception will be held at the swanky resort where Oz works as the pastry chef. The wedding planning is all fun-fetti and games until Mel and Joe meet the head chef at the resort who has been making Oz's life miserable. When the eccentric chef insults Mel's bakery, Oz gets into a blowout argument with the culinary prima donna.
Things turn extra sour when the chef is murdered, and Oz is the police's main suspect. As the countdown to the wedding day begins, Mel, Joe, and the rest of the Fairy Tale Cupcake crew must sift through clues to catch the real killer and clear Oz's name before their wedding plans are totally battered and baked.
260 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 4, 2021
131 people are currently reading
1370 people want to read
About the author
Jenn McKinlay
70 books5,252 followersJenn is the New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of several mystery and romance series. She is also the winner of the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award for romantic comedy and the Fresh Fiction award for best cozy mystery. A TEDx speaker, she is always happy to talk books, writing, reading, and the creative process to anyone who cares to listen. She lives in sunny Arizona in a house that is overrun with books, pets, and her husband’s guitars.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 282 reviews
March 11, 2025
In the 13th book in Jenn McKinlay's Cupcake Bakery Mysteries, For Batter or Worse, Mel is finally marrying Joe. We've seem them get together, break up, get back together, postpone the wedding, and now it's finally here... except Angie is 8 months pregnant, and a murderer kills someone and blames it on Oz, Mel's assistant baker who recently struck out on his own at a new hotel to be its pastry chef. Fun times as we get to know the hotel cast, meet more of Joe's brothers, and witness the shenanigans explode in hysterics. Had I not seen that another book was published after this one, I might have thought this was the end, as so much came together with little left open for the future. But I'm sure McKinlay has a lot more up her sleeve, and now I'm ready to read the 14th which was just released last month! Can't wait.
November 6, 2021
4.5 cups of coffee!!
June 3, 2021
The Cupcake Bakery Mystery series is in the top 3 of my all-time favorite cozy mystery series, and just happen to be the first I ever read. I went through them like I had been starving for reading (and I was at that point in my life). And here we are at book 13!
Some may say that a series that runs too long will get stale. Those people have never read the Cupcake Bakery Mysteries by Jenn McKinlay. The very opposite of stale, FOR BATTER OR WORSE, is fresh and fabulous, and the perfect addition to this series. Once I sank my teeth into the first page, I devoured the rest of the book in one setting, and was instantly hungry for the next installment.
FOR BATTER OR WORSE is the book we’ve been waiting for. The marriage of Mel and Joe! Or is it? ;-) Things are never as easy as it seems for the Fairytale Cupcake crew. But they always manage to bounce back. The characters in this series just keep getting better and better. Author McKinlay is so great at letting the characters grow. We find out something new about one of them in each volume, and this one is no different.
As for the mystery in, FOR BATTER OR WORSE, wow! I mean, I was all over the place trying to figure this one out. Everything that seemed crystal clear at one moment, became thick as frosting the next. With more twists and turns than the swirled icing on a cupcake, I kept running in circles with my guesses. Seriously, each time I had the villain guessed, I was proven so very wrong. Brava, Ms. McKinlay.
Returning fans to this series are going to love, FOR BATTER OR WORSE. If you haven’t read the series, please, don’t wait any longer. You have no idea what you’ve been missing!
Some may say that a series that runs too long will get stale. Those people have never read the Cupcake Bakery Mysteries by Jenn McKinlay. The very opposite of stale, FOR BATTER OR WORSE, is fresh and fabulous, and the perfect addition to this series. Once I sank my teeth into the first page, I devoured the rest of the book in one setting, and was instantly hungry for the next installment.
FOR BATTER OR WORSE is the book we’ve been waiting for. The marriage of Mel and Joe! Or is it? ;-) Things are never as easy as it seems for the Fairytale Cupcake crew. But they always manage to bounce back. The characters in this series just keep getting better and better. Author McKinlay is so great at letting the characters grow. We find out something new about one of them in each volume, and this one is no different.
As for the mystery in, FOR BATTER OR WORSE, wow! I mean, I was all over the place trying to figure this one out. Everything that seemed crystal clear at one moment, became thick as frosting the next. With more twists and turns than the swirled icing on a cupcake, I kept running in circles with my guesses. Seriously, each time I had the villain guessed, I was proven so very wrong. Brava, Ms. McKinlay.
Returning fans to this series are going to love, FOR BATTER OR WORSE. If you haven’t read the series, please, don’t wait any longer. You have no idea what you’ve been missing!
March 19, 2022
Oh my God! I can't wait for the next one!
May 7, 2021
Mel and Joe’s wedding day is fast approaching. For their reception, they’ve picked the resort where Oz has landed the job of head pastry chef. However, things are not going well for Oz there as the head chef is proving to be an egomaniac. One day, Mel and Angie witness a very public fight between Oz and the head chef. Then, a couple of days later, Mel and Joe find Oz bending over the dead body of the chef. Mel doesn’t need anything else on her to do list, but can she figure out who the killer is before she walks down the aisle?
If you were worried that Oz was leaving the series after the events of the previous book, this proves that he will still very much be part of the series. He gets some interesting character growth, in fact. The rest of the gang is all present, and I enjoyed laughing at their antics as they worked to solve the case. The mystery is filled with plenty of suspects and red herrings, and I only began to figure things out right before Mel put it all together. I loved the final chapter. If the book makes you hungry, you’ll be happy with the four recipes at the end. Once again, fans will devour this book and be ready for Mel’s next adventure.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
If you were worried that Oz was leaving the series after the events of the previous book, this proves that he will still very much be part of the series. He gets some interesting character growth, in fact. The rest of the gang is all present, and I enjoyed laughing at their antics as they worked to solve the case. The mystery is filled with plenty of suspects and red herrings, and I only began to figure things out right before Mel put it all together. I loved the final chapter. If the book makes you hungry, you’ll be happy with the four recipes at the end. Once again, fans will devour this book and be ready for Mel’s next adventure.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
June 19, 2021
Laughter and a few sniffles wrapped around a wedding, a impending birth, friendship, family and a murder! One of those doesn't fit with the rest, but in this book it fits perfectly!!! A well plotted mystery is just what the bride didn't order in the days leading up to her wedding, but it is exactly what she got and that is good for us as the readers! Great characters, wonderful and engaging plot that hits you right in the feels to activate both your funny bone and your heart! I absolutely can't wait to read what comes next for these characters, although I should say listen as the audiobook was the route that I chose and the narrator did an outstanding job of bringing the wonderful cast and story to life!
May 8, 2021
I feel like it’s been a while since I’ve read a book in this series but maybe that’s because I’ve been missing it. So when FOR BATTER OR WORSE fell into my hands, I gobbled it up right away!
If you’re new to the series, I would suggest starting from the beginning only because the romance and the friendship of the main characters in this series do develop over time. That being said, the actual mystery plots are standalone and are always solved at the end of the book. But if you’d like to see the growth of the main characters, I would suggest starting with book one. I say this because the relationship between all the characters is actually one of my favorite things about this series.
So in addition to the great mystery, I do think that this series has a lot to offer. It has comedy and romance, as well as the solid mystery. Typically speaking, the mysteries in this series are on the lighter side, but I don’t think that means it’s not as engaging. It just has a different tone than some other mysteries in the genre. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read more from Jenn McKinlay!
Read my alternate review on Fresh Fiction
April 7, 2021
FOR BATTER OR WORSE, the thirteenth book in the Cupcake Bakery Mystery series by Jenn McKinlay, is another scrumptious addition to a yummy series! For fans, this is a much-awaited book as it looks like Mel will finally make her way down the aisle to wed Joe. However, as you might suspect, there are all sorts of hurdles to overcome to get it done and no one creates those hurdles better than Ms. McKinlay. First and foremost, is the imminent birth of Mel’s best friend’s baby. The soon-to-be mother, Angie, is not only Mel’s future sister-in-law but is her matron-of-honor. Could the newest family member upstage the nuptials? Next, Oz (Mel’s pastry chef for the wedding feast), is accused of murdering the head chef at the swanky resort chosen for the wedding and reception. Oz, formerly Mel and Angie’s employee at their Fairy Tale Cupcake bakery, has struck out to make it on his own in the highly pressurized kitchen of the resort. The head chef is clearly a bully and there’s no surprise when tempers flare between the two men.
Mel, knowing that Oz is innocent no matter the circumstantial evidence, is determined to clear his name in time for him to create his culinary magic and bake her nuptial cupcakes. As she investigates, there are plenty of people at the resort who had reasons to hate the head chef. There are clues to keep a sharp reader on their toes, but true to Ms. McKinley’s books, this is one to sit back and enjoy the ride. Filled with heartwarming friendships and close family ties, there’s humor to keep the mystery lighthearted and fun. It has been such a delight watching the characters grow and develop over the course of the series, and seeing their lives change as they would in the real world. While FOR BATTER OR WORSE can easily be read as a standalone, this is a great series to start at the beginning and binge the fun to catch up.
Naturally owning a cupcake bakery and ordering cupcakes to serve at the wedding reception, there are so many mouthwatering flavors described throughout the book. Ms. McKinlay doesn’t disappoint as she comes through with several tantalizing cupcake recipes at the back of the book to tempt readers into baking.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Mel, knowing that Oz is innocent no matter the circumstantial evidence, is determined to clear his name in time for him to create his culinary magic and bake her nuptial cupcakes. As she investigates, there are plenty of people at the resort who had reasons to hate the head chef. There are clues to keep a sharp reader on their toes, but true to Ms. McKinley’s books, this is one to sit back and enjoy the ride. Filled with heartwarming friendships and close family ties, there’s humor to keep the mystery lighthearted and fun. It has been such a delight watching the characters grow and develop over the course of the series, and seeing their lives change as they would in the real world. While FOR BATTER OR WORSE can easily be read as a standalone, this is a great series to start at the beginning and binge the fun to catch up.
Naturally owning a cupcake bakery and ordering cupcakes to serve at the wedding reception, there are so many mouthwatering flavors described throughout the book. Ms. McKinlay doesn’t disappoint as she comes through with several tantalizing cupcake recipes at the back of the book to tempt readers into baking.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 7, 2021
For Batter or Worse is the 13th book in the Cupcake Bakery Mystery series and my favorite in the series to date. The fact that we are thirteen books into the series and fans are still delighted with each new book is a testament to the talented Ms. McKinlay and the charming, enchanting world she has created with this series. These characters are some of my favorite cozy mystery characters. They are fun, engaging, and well written. As a reader, I have been privileged to watch them grow, develop, and now they feel like old friends. This book had a nostalgic feel to it. Everyone's lives are moving in the right direction. Angie and Tate are on the precipice of becoming parents and Joe and Mel are finally (fingers crossed) getting married. Readers have been looking forward to this for several books and Ms. McKinlay did not disappoint. What still stands and shines through is the core friendship between Mel, Angie, and Tate but they have opened their circle to include a great cast of secondary characters. The author also delivers her trademark wit and humor which shines through.
Of course, this is Mel, which means nothing is going to go smooth. This time around, Oz is the main suspect in the murder of a less than likable Chef at the resort where he works. I love that Oz was a part of this story as I was worried after the previous book. The pace is spot on and Mel once again works her magic to help Uncle Stan find the right killer and wrap everything up before she walks down the aisle.
If you are new to this series, I would suggest that you start with the first book and work your way through the series, to watch the characters grow and develop. I will return to this series for as long as the author continues to write this series.
Of course, this is Mel, which means nothing is going to go smooth. This time around, Oz is the main suspect in the murder of a less than likable Chef at the resort where he works. I love that Oz was a part of this story as I was worried after the previous book. The pace is spot on and Mel once again works her magic to help Uncle Stan find the right killer and wrap everything up before she walks down the aisle.
If you are new to this series, I would suggest that you start with the first book and work your way through the series, to watch the characters grow and develop. I will return to this series for as long as the author continues to write this series.
September 1, 2021
And we're done! Of course they couldn't just have a normal wedding because that wouldn't be cute enough, but it's fine, they got married and it was actually all I wanted. The late stage thing was entirely unneeded, but again, it's fine. Mostly very glad to have read this series, equally glad to be finished
May 22, 2021
Thirteen books in the making and we finally have Joe and Mel's wedding. Did I cry while reading this book? Yes, yes I did. I have so much love for this series and these characters. I will never get tired of this series. Mel's former employee, Oz, is accused of murdering the chef at his new employment.
With their wedding approaching, Mel and Joe are determined to prove Oz's innocence. I loved all the Mel and OZ scenes. The DeLaura brothers are the best group of brothers ever. I need more in this series. I don't want it to end.
With their wedding approaching, Mel and Joe are determined to prove Oz's innocence. I loved all the Mel and OZ scenes. The DeLaura brothers are the best group of brothers ever. I need more in this series. I don't want it to end.
December 17, 2021
Oh no..poor Oz..he's the main suspect in the murder of his new boss.
And Mel's wedding plans are in overdrive. Will she be able to solve the mystery before walking down the aisle?
And it's about time for Ray & Tara to start up. They need their own story/book in the series.
Another good addition to the cupcake mysteries.
And a wonderfully sweet ending just like her cupcakes.
And Mel's wedding plans are in overdrive. Will she be able to solve the mystery before walking down the aisle?
And it's about time for Ray & Tara to start up. They need their own story/book in the series.
Another good addition to the cupcake mysteries.
And a wonderfully sweet ending just like her cupcakes.
March 24, 2021
A thank you to netgalley.com for allowing me to read the book for an honest review.
We're approaching the big day, Mel and Joe's wedding. When Mel and Joe show up for their cupcake tasting at the resort, where Oz is the head pastry chef, they're just in time to see an argument between Oz and the Head Chef Miles. Later when Oz finds Miles with his head bashed in, he's the prime suspect. With the wedding coming soon, will Mel find out who killed the head chef before Oz is arrested? will the wedding actually take place?
The books in this series have been up and down and this is an "up" one. I enjoyed the mystery, the bit of romance and overall the interplay between the characters. I heard one person describe cozy series as "visiting my friends" and I really think reading each new book fits the description.
#netgally #forbatterorworse
We're approaching the big day, Mel and Joe's wedding. When Mel and Joe show up for their cupcake tasting at the resort, where Oz is the head pastry chef, they're just in time to see an argument between Oz and the Head Chef Miles. Later when Oz finds Miles with his head bashed in, he's the prime suspect. With the wedding coming soon, will Mel find out who killed the head chef before Oz is arrested? will the wedding actually take place?
The books in this series have been up and down and this is an "up" one. I enjoyed the mystery, the bit of romance and overall the interplay between the characters. I heard one person describe cozy series as "visiting my friends" and I really think reading each new book fits the description.
#netgally #forbatterorworse
October 28, 2021
Love this series!
Do MC’s resemble their authors because Mel is starting to make #badbreakfastchoices. I loved this book, these are some of my favorite characters and I loved all the happily ever afters in this book including the resolution of the murder. The only downside is I now have to wait for the next book to be published.
**disclaimer**
Forever a #readforkimberly series. This book may not have been on the actual TBR but it would have been.
Do MC’s resemble their authors because Mel is starting to make #badbreakfastchoices. I loved this book, these are some of my favorite characters and I loved all the happily ever afters in this book including the resolution of the murder. The only downside is I now have to wait for the next book to be published.
**disclaimer**
Forever a #readforkimberly series. This book may not have been on the actual TBR but it would have been.
October 12, 2021
I've loved this series from the very beginning and even though this is book #13, it still read as fresh as the first book. This one focuses on Oz, a young baker who moved on from Mel and Angie's bakery in the last book. I was afraid we wouldn't hear much about him after he left, but was pleasantly surprised that he was the focus of this one. Can't wait for the next book!
June 12, 2021
I really liked this one! It was fun to see more of Oz and how different Angie is while pregnant. && of course Mel and Joe ❤
While it would be okay to read as a stand alone, I recommend you read this series in order to really get the back story on the characters.
While it would be okay to read as a stand alone, I recommend you read this series in order to really get the back story on the characters.
October 21, 2023
Lots of twists for our cupcake bakers, but enjoyable and satisfying!
May 3, 2021
For Batter or Worse by Jenn McKinlay is the 13th A Cupcake Bakery Mystery. This is a sweet addition to a scrumptious series. It is finally time for Joe and Mel’s wedding (hooray), but a murder may put a crimp in the big day. I thought For Batter or Worse was well-written with developed characters and it moved along at quick pace. I love the snappy dialogue between the characters. I find the movie quotes (the game they play) delightful. I have enjoyed following Mel and Angie since the beginning of this scrummy series. There is a delightful cast of characters that includes Angie, Mel, Tate, Joe, Oz, and Marty. The DeLaura brothers are a hoot. I laughed often while reading about their antics. Marty is another humorous character. The detailed descriptions of the cupcakes will have you salivating and heading for the closest bakery. The mystery is well-plotted with several suspects, misdirection, and a tantalizing twist. I had fun solving this zestful whodunit. I like the romance between Uncle Stan and Mel’s mother, Joyce. I wonder if wedding bells are in their future. There are some special moments in this story. I just loved the ending. If you are new to the series, I would not recommend starting with For Batter or Worse. A Cupcake Bakery Mystery series is one I highly recommend reading in order. For Batter or Worse has lovable characters, laugh out-loud humor, scrumptious cupcakes, and an enticing mystery. This is one cozy mystery you do not want to miss. For Batter or Worse is a tasty tale with delectable delights, marriage arrangements, a pregnant partner, a frantic friend, bothersome and brilliant brothers, and an exultant ending.
July 4, 2021
"Wow, I just realized you're going to be a DeLaura and I'm not," Angie Harper said.
Finally! We get to the wedding of Mel and Joe. Of course with Mel involved you know it will not go smoothly. Former Fairy Take Cupcake employee, Oz, is now the pastry chef at the resort where Mel and Joe will be married. An encounter with the head chef leaves Oz as the prime suspect when the chef if found murdered.
I love so much about this series! The characters speak to me and I feel like I am a part of the family when I am with them. The bakery makes me swoon and I want to try every recipe in the book. Mel and Joe have waited years for this day and it should be perfect. I have always been an Oz fan and this book made me love him even more.
A very pregnant Angie cracks me up. Who knew the firecracker of the bunch would become a mellow and Zen mom to be.
The murder was well thought out and gave me plenty of red herrings to nibble along the way trying to find the killer. Sometimes the answer is right in front of you.
I loved the ending of the book and shed a few tears as I read it. I can't wait to see where the next book will take us.
Finally! We get to the wedding of Mel and Joe. Of course with Mel involved you know it will not go smoothly. Former Fairy Take Cupcake employee, Oz, is now the pastry chef at the resort where Mel and Joe will be married. An encounter with the head chef leaves Oz as the prime suspect when the chef if found murdered.
I love so much about this series! The characters speak to me and I feel like I am a part of the family when I am with them. The bakery makes me swoon and I want to try every recipe in the book. Mel and Joe have waited years for this day and it should be perfect. I have always been an Oz fan and this book made me love him even more.
A very pregnant Angie cracks me up. Who knew the firecracker of the bunch would become a mellow and Zen mom to be.
The murder was well thought out and gave me plenty of red herrings to nibble along the way trying to find the killer. Sometimes the answer is right in front of you.
I loved the ending of the book and shed a few tears as I read it. I can't wait to see where the next book will take us.
May 29, 2025
Things are going well with the bakery, and Mel is about to get married to Joe, and Angie is pregnant. Oz is starting his career, working under an obnoxious chef. Of course, guess who gets filleted, with Oz as the prime suspect?
Pretty decent, although there is some obvious illusion of progress here.
Pretty decent, although there is some obvious illusion of progress here.
May 20, 2021
https://openbooksociety.com/article/f...
For Batter or Worse
Cupcake Bakery Mystery
By Jenn McKinlay
ISBN 9780593333372
jennmckinlay.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
The Fairy Tale Cupcake crew must discover the truth behind a death sprinkled with suspicion before Mel and Joe can say I do”, in the thirteenth Cupcake Bakery Mystery from New York Times bestselling author Jenn McKinlay.
Life is sweet and business is booming at the Fairy Tale Cupcakes bakery–and the fact that Mel and Joe are getting married is the icing on the cake. Their reception will be held at the swanky resort where Oz works as the pastry chef. The wedding planning is all fun-fetti and games until Mel and Joe meet the head chef at the resort who has been making Oz’s life miserable. When the eccentric chef insults Mel’s bakery, Oz gets into a blowout argument with the culinary prima donna.
Things turn extra sour when the chef is murdered, and Oz is the police’s main suspect. As the countdown to the wedding day begins, Mel, Joe, and the rest of the Fairy Tale Cupcake crew must sift through clues to catch the real killer and clear Oz’s name before their wedding plans are totally battered and baked. (from Goodreads)
Review:
This is one of the most exciting novels in the series, and I enjoyed every minute of it! The characters are an eclectic mix of well-defined personalities. The mystery is plotted and executed flawlessly, as is the surrounding preparation for the day of Melanie’s – Mel’s major event as well as Angie and Tate’s upcoming special delivery. And the cupcakes from Fairy Tale cupcakes? They sound amazing! For those who love to bake, there are recipes for several of the featured cupcakes.
Oz has grown and matured during the time he worked for Mel and Angie, partners at Fairy Tale Brownies along with Tate, Angie’s husband. Oz attended and graduated from culinary school and has his own baking kitchen now at Sun Dial Resort. He will be baking the cupcakes for Mel and Joe’s wedding reception, only a couple weeks away.
Yes, Mel and county assistant DA Joe are getting married, a day she feared would never come. She had a crush on him for nearly 20 years before they began to date! Mel’s mom has called him “Dear Joe” ever since. Angie and Mel have their own milestone event – their first baby is due about four weeks after the wedding. Angie is confident they won’t need a backup matron of honor and best man.
They just might need to rely on a backup baker, though, due to totally unanticipated events. Mel has made several trips to the resort to finalize things with the event coordinator and Oz. After hearing Miles, the executive chef, cause problems for Oz a few days earlier, Mel and Joe stopped in the bakery kitchen to see how he was doing. Mel was stunned to see Miles lying on the floor with blood around his head, and Oz leaning over him with blood on his hands. They believed what Oz told them, but there were a couple other people willing to see Oz wearing an orange jumpsuit, accused of the murder, one of them being the wife of the resort owner. Fortunately, Mel has much experience helping find killers over the past few years, and when it comes to her friends, she doesn’t give up.
Author Jenn McKinlay presents an excellent cast of characters! I especially enjoy Mel, Angie, and Oz, all of whom have changed in so many ways since first being in the series. “The brothers”, comprised of six of Angie’s seven brothers and Mel’s almost brothers-in-laws, are quirky and unique. It is fun to see them in action to protect a friend and get to the truth. While this reader could almost picture the characters physically, their attitudes give the third, living dimension to their appearance.
The mystery, as others in the series, has enough plot twists and turns that the reader begins to feel as if riding a tilt-a-whirl. The pace is perfect; as often feels in real life, time speeds up as the big event nears. The murder must be solved before the wedding day! I couldn’t guess who the bad guy was almost until the actual reveal. Honestly, I didn’t realize that professional kitchens were such hotbeds of creative, edgy chefs! Maybe it’s a good thing I can’t cook. . . The story ends very well, with even more surprises that make the wedding day incredibly memorable. I highly recommend this mystery, and the series!
For Batter or Worse
Cupcake Bakery Mystery
By Jenn McKinlay
ISBN 9780593333372
jennmckinlay.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
The Fairy Tale Cupcake crew must discover the truth behind a death sprinkled with suspicion before Mel and Joe can say I do”, in the thirteenth Cupcake Bakery Mystery from New York Times bestselling author Jenn McKinlay.
Life is sweet and business is booming at the Fairy Tale Cupcakes bakery–and the fact that Mel and Joe are getting married is the icing on the cake. Their reception will be held at the swanky resort where Oz works as the pastry chef. The wedding planning is all fun-fetti and games until Mel and Joe meet the head chef at the resort who has been making Oz’s life miserable. When the eccentric chef insults Mel’s bakery, Oz gets into a blowout argument with the culinary prima donna.
Things turn extra sour when the chef is murdered, and Oz is the police’s main suspect. As the countdown to the wedding day begins, Mel, Joe, and the rest of the Fairy Tale Cupcake crew must sift through clues to catch the real killer and clear Oz’s name before their wedding plans are totally battered and baked. (from Goodreads)
Review:
This is one of the most exciting novels in the series, and I enjoyed every minute of it! The characters are an eclectic mix of well-defined personalities. The mystery is plotted and executed flawlessly, as is the surrounding preparation for the day of Melanie’s – Mel’s major event as well as Angie and Tate’s upcoming special delivery. And the cupcakes from Fairy Tale cupcakes? They sound amazing! For those who love to bake, there are recipes for several of the featured cupcakes.
Oz has grown and matured during the time he worked for Mel and Angie, partners at Fairy Tale Brownies along with Tate, Angie’s husband. Oz attended and graduated from culinary school and has his own baking kitchen now at Sun Dial Resort. He will be baking the cupcakes for Mel and Joe’s wedding reception, only a couple weeks away.
Yes, Mel and county assistant DA Joe are getting married, a day she feared would never come. She had a crush on him for nearly 20 years before they began to date! Mel’s mom has called him “Dear Joe” ever since. Angie and Mel have their own milestone event – their first baby is due about four weeks after the wedding. Angie is confident they won’t need a backup matron of honor and best man.
They just might need to rely on a backup baker, though, due to totally unanticipated events. Mel has made several trips to the resort to finalize things with the event coordinator and Oz. After hearing Miles, the executive chef, cause problems for Oz a few days earlier, Mel and Joe stopped in the bakery kitchen to see how he was doing. Mel was stunned to see Miles lying on the floor with blood around his head, and Oz leaning over him with blood on his hands. They believed what Oz told them, but there were a couple other people willing to see Oz wearing an orange jumpsuit, accused of the murder, one of them being the wife of the resort owner. Fortunately, Mel has much experience helping find killers over the past few years, and when it comes to her friends, she doesn’t give up.
Author Jenn McKinlay presents an excellent cast of characters! I especially enjoy Mel, Angie, and Oz, all of whom have changed in so many ways since first being in the series. “The brothers”, comprised of six of Angie’s seven brothers and Mel’s almost brothers-in-laws, are quirky and unique. It is fun to see them in action to protect a friend and get to the truth. While this reader could almost picture the characters physically, their attitudes give the third, living dimension to their appearance.
The mystery, as others in the series, has enough plot twists and turns that the reader begins to feel as if riding a tilt-a-whirl. The pace is perfect; as often feels in real life, time speeds up as the big event nears. The murder must be solved before the wedding day! I couldn’t guess who the bad guy was almost until the actual reveal. Honestly, I didn’t realize that professional kitchens were such hotbeds of creative, edgy chefs! Maybe it’s a good thing I can’t cook. . . The story ends very well, with even more surprises that make the wedding day incredibly memorable. I highly recommend this mystery, and the series!
June 25, 2021
At the Fairy Tale Cupcakes bakery, Mel and Angie have a lot going on. Mel and Joe’s wedding is just around the corner, and Angie is due to give birth around the same time. And in the latest addition to the series, For Batter or Worse, things are getting to be crazier and crazier. When a chef at a high-end resort is killed, Oz is the prime suspect, and if readers know anything about this series, they know that Mel is not going to stand by and do nothing.
Mel, Angie, and Oz are lovely characters. They have a way of making readers smile and worry at the same time. Uncle tan is a good cop, and he never lets you down. Other characters are charming, helpful, and loveable. The victim in this book is a heartless chef who thinks he is the end-all and be-all of the industry. The suspects, one of which is a killer, don’t agree with his characterization of his ego. The Fairy Tale Cupcakes bakery location doesn’t play a significant role in this new addition, but it is still a place readers will want to spend time visiting, and of course, eating the yummy creations.
There is plenty of evidence to keep readers guessing; some misdirection and red herrings will help keep them turning the page. There is enough action to hold the attention, and the suspense of finding our who-dun-it, and whether or not Mel and Joe make it down the aisle at long last is thrilling. Unveiling the killer is done in a great scene and gives readers satisfaction. Oz is cleared, and everyone is happy. The ending was predictable, but that isn’t a bad thing. Even though The Fairy Tale Cupcakes bakery didn’t cater Mel’s wedding, Oz made the delicious creations stand out and put smiles of delight on everyone’s face. And, of course, Angie gives everyone another reason to celebrate. I am happy to recommend For Batter or Worse to readers looking for a delightfully interesting and fun read.
Mel, Angie, and Oz are lovely characters. They have a way of making readers smile and worry at the same time. Uncle tan is a good cop, and he never lets you down. Other characters are charming, helpful, and loveable. The victim in this book is a heartless chef who thinks he is the end-all and be-all of the industry. The suspects, one of which is a killer, don’t agree with his characterization of his ego. The Fairy Tale Cupcakes bakery location doesn’t play a significant role in this new addition, but it is still a place readers will want to spend time visiting, and of course, eating the yummy creations.
There is plenty of evidence to keep readers guessing; some misdirection and red herrings will help keep them turning the page. There is enough action to hold the attention, and the suspense of finding our who-dun-it, and whether or not Mel and Joe make it down the aisle at long last is thrilling. Unveiling the killer is done in a great scene and gives readers satisfaction. Oz is cleared, and everyone is happy. The ending was predictable, but that isn’t a bad thing. Even though The Fairy Tale Cupcakes bakery didn’t cater Mel’s wedding, Oz made the delicious creations stand out and put smiles of delight on everyone’s face. And, of course, Angie gives everyone another reason to celebrate. I am happy to recommend For Batter or Worse to readers looking for a delightfully interesting and fun read.
February 15, 2021
Lucky number 13 in the Cupcake Bakery Mysteries comes in as a real winner! I’ve read this entire series and I can’t tell you how nice it is to slip back in with the Fairytale Cupcake’s crew for another murder mystery.
Mel and Joe are finally getting married. Oh, we’ve had some challenges getting these two to the altar, but hell of it isn’t happening this time! Well, you know, unless there’s maybe a murder or something.
Of course there’s a murder! At the reception site, no less. When one of their own is accused and there’s no way that our familiar foodie family will let that fly.
I honestly think this is one of the best of the series, all of the characters are on point. The callbacks to past books in the series are flawless, the addition of plausible suspects is subtle and keeps you guessing. Only the odd “murder weapon” we find out about at the end is a little out there but it was still a good book. I didn’t have it picked right, and I love when I can’t figure out who dunnit before they tell you!
McKinlay includes mouthwatering cupcake recipes as well as her very sharp writing skills to each of her mysteries. I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves cozies. They’re excellent!
Thank you to @netgalley and @berkleypub for a review copy of this book. I am giving this review of my own accord.
Mel and Joe are finally getting married. Oh, we’ve had some challenges getting these two to the altar, but hell of it isn’t happening this time! Well, you know, unless there’s maybe a murder or something.
Of course there’s a murder! At the reception site, no less. When one of their own is accused and there’s no way that our familiar foodie family will let that fly.
I honestly think this is one of the best of the series, all of the characters are on point. The callbacks to past books in the series are flawless, the addition of plausible suspects is subtle and keeps you guessing. Only the odd “murder weapon” we find out about at the end is a little out there but it was still a good book. I didn’t have it picked right, and I love when I can’t figure out who dunnit before they tell you!
McKinlay includes mouthwatering cupcake recipes as well as her very sharp writing skills to each of her mysteries. I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves cozies. They’re excellent!
Thank you to @netgalley and @berkleypub for a review copy of this book. I am giving this review of my own accord.
May 6, 2021
Awww, we finally get our wedding, but you know of course their is no way the Cupcake crew is going to have a major event without also having a murder! With the wedding within days, Angie almost ready to have her baby everyone is looking for smooth sailing but with Oz making their wedding cupcakes at the resort where he is head Bakery Chef things get out of control quickly. When a bully Executive Chef gets into it with Oz, it's no surprise he's considered a suspect when the chef is murdered. Can Mel help Oz get cleared before her wedding? Will the wedding go off as planned? Definitely worth the read to find out!!!
June 14, 2021
I loved this one! It's finally time for Mel and dear Joe to get married! The cupcake tasting was so descriptive and yummy sounding. I wish I was there for that! I enjoyed seeing a different side of a few characters. We get more of Oz and learn some new stuff about him. Then Angie is extremely pregnant and has changed her views on life so not to pass on bad vibes to her little. The murder at Oz's new job had a ton of suspects. I actually thought the murderer was going to be someone else! I loved how it all went down. Then the ending was sweet and teary-eyed!! I need the next book now please 😊😊
May 10, 2021
I love this series and the way that characters have grown as it has continued. The story was entertaining and the sleuthing was front and center, with several storylines getting wrapped up and new ones starting. Can't wait for the next one!
June 13, 2021
Loved the mystery of this one as well as catching up with characters that feel like friends. Great narration by one of my favorite narrators. Perfect Sunday read.
February 16, 2022
Yay, they finally got married! Can't wait to see what happens next!
June 13, 2021
So many emotions! I just love this series and all the characters. This one brought the series full circle for me. 💗
December 3, 2022
This book is about the marriage of Mel and Joe. Also about Angie and Tate and the baby. Mel and Joe are having their reception at the resort where Oz works. When the head chef is murdered the chief suspect seems to be Oz but the whole gang works to find the real killer. The book was a quick easy read.
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