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Country Store Mystery #9
No Grater Crime
Robbie Jordan's Pans 'N Pancakes boasts delicious eats and the best vintage cookware finds in South Lick, Indiana. And now, for a limited time, there's a new special featured on the menu--murder!
Ever since meeting the wary owners of an antique shop opening across the street, Robbie has been scrambling to manage weird incidences plaguing her café and country store. Pricey items vanish from shelves without explanation, a fully equipped breakfast food truck starts lingering around the area each morning, and loyal diners mysteriously fall ill. When an elderly man dies after devouring an omelet packed with poisonous mushrooms, Robbie must temporarily close down Pans 'N Pancakes and search for the killer with a real zest for running her out of business--or else.
Ever since meeting the wary owners of an antique shop opening across the street, Robbie has been scrambling to manage weird incidences plaguing her café and country store. Pricey items vanish from shelves without explanation, a fully equipped breakfast food truck starts lingering around the area each morning, and loyal diners mysteriously fall ill. When an elderly man dies after devouring an omelet packed with poisonous mushrooms, Robbie must temporarily close down Pans 'N Pancakes and search for the killer with a real zest for running her out of business--or else.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 24, 2021
492 people are currently reading
3011 people want to read
About the author
Maddie Day
29 books1,552 followersMaddie Day is a pseudonym for Agatha Award-winning mystery author Edith Maxwell.
As Maddie Day, Edith writes the Country Store Mysteries, from Kensington, set in southern Indiana. Maddie lived in the area some years ago and loves writing the adventures of Robbie Jordan, a country store owner and chef in South Lick, Indiana.
She also writes the Cozy Capers Book Group Mysteries, with bike shop owner Mackenzie Almeida and her cozy mystery book group solving murders in a fictional Cape Cod village.
Her new Cece Barton Mysteries series, set northern California wine country, releases in fall, 2023
Please see Edith Maxwell's author page for more information about her other mystery series and her award-winning short stories.
As Maddie Day, Edith writes the Country Store Mysteries, from Kensington, set in southern Indiana. Maddie lived in the area some years ago and loves writing the adventures of Robbie Jordan, a country store owner and chef in South Lick, Indiana.
She also writes the Cozy Capers Book Group Mysteries, with bike shop owner Mackenzie Almeida and her cozy mystery book group solving murders in a fictional Cape Cod village.
Her new Cece Barton Mysteries series, set northern California wine country, releases in fall, 2023
Please see Edith Maxwell's author page for more information about her other mystery series and her award-winning short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
March 16, 2025
No Grater Crime is the 9th book in Maddie Day's always-pleasing Country Store Mysteries. In this caper, a couple with a grudge against Robbie's Aunt Adele opens an antique shop across the street from Pans and Pancakes, Robbie's country store, kitchen, and B&B. Their daughter parks her food truck in the lot nearby, and then a shipment from their son-in-law's food distributor leaves one of Robbie's customers dead of a poisonous mushroom. Could it all be a coincidence, or is someone after Robbie again? The suspects were aplenty, and when the Health Board shut down the kitchen, I was devastated. How would she recover? Then we learned that the new neighbor's extended family includes the mother of Robbie's soon-to-be stepson, and the woman is not thrilled about her ex-husband's nuptials. Is she involved? As the story unfolds, I found myself eagerly turning pages. The characters and setting always keep my interest... the series is top notch, and of the nine so far, only one was slightly disappointing. The rest have been fantastic, and now I'm ready for the 10th which is officially published in about a week.
August 25, 2021
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
Things are going pretty well for transplanted Californian Robbie Jordan in benighted South Lick Indiana, when neighbors move in to the store next door. Things immediately start going wrong. Stuff disappears, there's a food poisoning incident in her restaurant, and she has to shut down. A food truck mysteriously parks across the street.
She investigates to clear her name.
Not bad, but makes it plain why people from other states might not like people from California.
Things are going pretty well for transplanted Californian Robbie Jordan in benighted South Lick Indiana, when neighbors move in to the store next door. Things immediately start going wrong. Stuff disappears, there's a food poisoning incident in her restaurant, and she has to shut down. A food truck mysteriously parks across the street.
She investigates to clear her name.
Not bad, but makes it plain why people from other states might not like people from California.
June 28, 2021
No Grater Crime is the 9th book in the Country Store Mystery series by author Maddie Day. I have been reading this series since the first book debuted and always look forward to another visit to South Lick Indiana. Part of the draw for me is the Midwestern setting. Ms. Day once again transports her readers to the area with the descriptions, dialogue, dialects, and references to actual cities/towns to provide a reference. The characters are just terrific. She has done a great job evolving and developing both Robbie Jordan as well a the cast of secondary characters. This time around, her readers are in store for a treat as Robbie and Abe head down the aisle. I have enjoyed how their romance has progressed yet it has not detracted from the mysteries. Robbie is becoming a stepmother, and Ms. Day has done a terrific job of including Abe's son along the way. However, as with all things having to do with Robbie, murder is also on the menu. This time it hits close to home and jeopardizes her restaurant and her reputation.
Not one to take something sitting down, Robbie knows that in order to feel like she has some control over the circumstances, she must try to determine who is behind the events. As the mystery unravels, Robbie becomes more and more uncomfortable with the new "neighbors" across the street. For me, I thought the mystery was not quite as complex as what I am used to in this series. From the outset, the suspects felt too obvious to me and just grew stronger as I read deeper into the book. While I was mostly correct in my guess as to the culprit, I was not totally right - so there is that. I also felt that the motive for the crimes was not fully fleshed out at the end.
That said, this is a terrific series and I will keep returning to South Lick to see what the author has in store as Robbie and Abe adjust to married life and whatever else might come their way.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington Books, through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Not one to take something sitting down, Robbie knows that in order to feel like she has some control over the circumstances, she must try to determine who is behind the events. As the mystery unravels, Robbie becomes more and more uncomfortable with the new "neighbors" across the street. For me, I thought the mystery was not quite as complex as what I am used to in this series. From the outset, the suspects felt too obvious to me and just grew stronger as I read deeper into the book. While I was mostly correct in my guess as to the culprit, I was not totally right - so there is that. I also felt that the motive for the crimes was not fully fleshed out at the end.
That said, this is a terrific series and I will keep returning to South Lick to see what the author has in store as Robbie and Abe adjust to married life and whatever else might come their way.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington Books, through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
September 18, 2021
Dollycas’s Thoughts
There is a new business in South Lick, an antique store right across the street from Robbie Jordan’s Pans ‘N Pancakes. She hopes it won’t cut into her vintage cookware sales. But sales aren’t her problem right now, shoplifting is. While she and her employees were busy serving food someone walked off with a batch of graters she just picked up at the Scottsburg Antique Fair. Robbie knows who the thief is but hesitates to make a scene.
Robbie strives to serve her customers the highest quality of food possible so she is shocked to learn a group of them took ill after eating at her establishment. Worse, one man whose health is already compromised dies. The health department closes Pans ‘N Pancakes down while they investigate. Robbie does her own investigation and figures out the mushrooms were the problem. Her wholesaler delivered poisonous ones and Robbie and her staff had no clue there weren’t the usual variety they typically use. Strange that as soon as Robbie’s business is shut down a food truck pulls up next to the new antique store and starts serving her customers. That is just one too many coincidences for Robbie. She knows who is responsible she just has to prove it.
My mother ran a restaurant similar to Robbie’s so this story really hit home for me. Competition is one thing, sabotage with foodstuffs is completely another. Many businesses wouldn’t be able to come back from such a serious matter. Robbie is blessed to have such a loyal group of customers and friends. As you can see Maddie Day has written a story that hit me at an emotional level which she continues to do time and time again.
The mystery is more complicated than complex. The suspects are a small pool and it is just a matter of pinning the right person down. They all had the opportunity but true motives were unclear. Robbie withheld the theft of the graters from Lieutenant Buck Bird who eats most of her menu every time he sets foot in the place. That may have ruffled some feathers earlier in the book and changed the outcome. I was just surprised she didn’t tell him right away. I did enjoy following all the clues though. I was on the right track but a left turn changed everything near the conclusion of the mystery.
I love that this series is set in the Midwest and the characters ring true to almost everyone right out my front door. I have sincerely enjoyed Robbie and the rest of the characters from the start of the series. They continue to grow and new members of the supporting cast are added in each book along the way. In fact, Robbie is engaged to be married to a man with a teenage son. Robbie has nurtured a relationship with the young man and that becomes very important in this story. I really admire the way the author has treated these characters and the way these relationships grew over several stories. It feels natural and is really heartwarming. It also sets up a fantastic ending.
No Grater Crime is filled with wonderful characters and delicious food. I am not a mushroom eater so now kitchen sink omelet for me though. Each visit to South Lick seems to end too soon. I can hardly wait for Batter Off Dead to be released in February 2022.
There is a new business in South Lick, an antique store right across the street from Robbie Jordan’s Pans ‘N Pancakes. She hopes it won’t cut into her vintage cookware sales. But sales aren’t her problem right now, shoplifting is. While she and her employees were busy serving food someone walked off with a batch of graters she just picked up at the Scottsburg Antique Fair. Robbie knows who the thief is but hesitates to make a scene.
Robbie strives to serve her customers the highest quality of food possible so she is shocked to learn a group of them took ill after eating at her establishment. Worse, one man whose health is already compromised dies. The health department closes Pans ‘N Pancakes down while they investigate. Robbie does her own investigation and figures out the mushrooms were the problem. Her wholesaler delivered poisonous ones and Robbie and her staff had no clue there weren’t the usual variety they typically use. Strange that as soon as Robbie’s business is shut down a food truck pulls up next to the new antique store and starts serving her customers. That is just one too many coincidences for Robbie. She knows who is responsible she just has to prove it.
My mother ran a restaurant similar to Robbie’s so this story really hit home for me. Competition is one thing, sabotage with foodstuffs is completely another. Many businesses wouldn’t be able to come back from such a serious matter. Robbie is blessed to have such a loyal group of customers and friends. As you can see Maddie Day has written a story that hit me at an emotional level which she continues to do time and time again.
The mystery is more complicated than complex. The suspects are a small pool and it is just a matter of pinning the right person down. They all had the opportunity but true motives were unclear. Robbie withheld the theft of the graters from Lieutenant Buck Bird who eats most of her menu every time he sets foot in the place. That may have ruffled some feathers earlier in the book and changed the outcome. I was just surprised she didn’t tell him right away. I did enjoy following all the clues though. I was on the right track but a left turn changed everything near the conclusion of the mystery.
I love that this series is set in the Midwest and the characters ring true to almost everyone right out my front door. I have sincerely enjoyed Robbie and the rest of the characters from the start of the series. They continue to grow and new members of the supporting cast are added in each book along the way. In fact, Robbie is engaged to be married to a man with a teenage son. Robbie has nurtured a relationship with the young man and that becomes very important in this story. I really admire the way the author has treated these characters and the way these relationships grew over several stories. It feels natural and is really heartwarming. It also sets up a fantastic ending.
No Grater Crime is filled with wonderful characters and delicious food. I am not a mushroom eater so now kitchen sink omelet for me though. Each visit to South Lick seems to end too soon. I can hardly wait for Batter Off Dead to be released in February 2022.
September 30, 2021
A delightful murder mystery that leads you down multiple paths as you try to untwist the mystery of who did it! A wonderful audio series to listen to as the narrator does a great job of bringing the characters to life. This cozy mystery is definitely a must read/listen as it is well plotted, excellently developed and the setting is a wonderful midwestern setting. I can't wait to see what happens next for this cast of characters.
August 18, 2021
No Grater Crime by Maddie Day is the 9th A Country Store Mystery. It can be read as a standalone if you are new to the series (but you will be missing out on some cute country cozy mysteries). Robbie Jordan is getting married in a month and still has some details to finalize. Her life becomes complicated when customers become ill after eating her mushroom omelet. Her restaurant is shut down leaving Robbie with unanswered questions and a dead patron. To top it off, some of her vintage implements have disappeared and a food truck opens across the street. No Grater Crime is a cute story that is action packed. I have been looking forward to Robbie and Abe’s wedding. They are such a sweet couple. I thought the author captured the area with her word imagery (of South Lick, Indiana) plus the dialects, dialogue, and references to nearby cities. It is funny how people call items by different names depending on what area of the country they are from. One example is soda. When I lived in Ohio, we called it pop. When I moved to Florida, I was told it was soda. I like that the author includes different examples. The mystery was interesting. There are multiple suspects in this whodunit that easily could have done the deed including Abe’s ex-wife. I had a good time following the mystery and seeing how it turned it (I love to solve the crimes). I would have liked a more thorough wrap-up. I was also baffled as to why Robbie never reported the missing items. It seemed odd. The ending will delight fans of the series. No Grater Crime is an enticing tale with mortal mushrooms, a purloined utensil, a lookie-loo, food truck trouble, and a wonderful wedding.
July 22, 2021
Maddie Day is a talented author who infuses her books with passion, love, and mysteries that can take your breath away. Book nine in the “A Country Store Mystery” series, No Grater Crime embodies all of Maddie’s talents in one story. Pans 'N Pancakes, Robbies, cafe, is at the heart of this installment. Readers will enjoy spending more time at the store with the crew and friends while Robbie works to solve a murder.
When a customer dies suspiciously after eating at Pans 'N Pancakes, fingers are pointing directly at Robbie, but she suspects it has something to do with her new neighbors, who also happen to hold a grudge against her aunt. Top that off with finding out that her soon-to-be husband, Abe’s ex is related to the neighbor’s, and she has her hands full and her mind a jumble. The cafe is closed down, there is a thief in their midst, and her wedding is just around the corner. Suspects are quickly identified, but the motive is elusive. You can guarantee there won’t be any dishes at the wedding that contain mushrooms, and hopefully, no murders either.
Readers will enjoy the action in this book and turn the pages eagerly. The characters, including the killer, have issues that can’t be fixed with good food, no matter how much Robbie wishes it could. The relationships throughout this series give readers a sense of family and home, and this addition is no different. Pans 'N Pancakes, Robbie’s cafe, makes you want to find a place just like it and spend time eating and enjoying the community atmosphere every day. The killer is revealed, although their identity does not come as a big surprise after Robbie once again puts herself in peril. Robbie wraps everything up as she and Abe finally walk down the aisle. This is a well-written, engaging mystery that has heart, enjoyment and will make readers hungry. Readers will love No Grater Crime as much as they have the rest of the series, and I, along with other fans, look forward to the next chapter in Robbie’s life.
When a customer dies suspiciously after eating at Pans 'N Pancakes, fingers are pointing directly at Robbie, but she suspects it has something to do with her new neighbors, who also happen to hold a grudge against her aunt. Top that off with finding out that her soon-to-be husband, Abe’s ex is related to the neighbor’s, and she has her hands full and her mind a jumble. The cafe is closed down, there is a thief in their midst, and her wedding is just around the corner. Suspects are quickly identified, but the motive is elusive. You can guarantee there won’t be any dishes at the wedding that contain mushrooms, and hopefully, no murders either.
Readers will enjoy the action in this book and turn the pages eagerly. The characters, including the killer, have issues that can’t be fixed with good food, no matter how much Robbie wishes it could. The relationships throughout this series give readers a sense of family and home, and this addition is no different. Pans 'N Pancakes, Robbie’s cafe, makes you want to find a place just like it and spend time eating and enjoying the community atmosphere every day. The killer is revealed, although their identity does not come as a big surprise after Robbie once again puts herself in peril. Robbie wraps everything up as she and Abe finally walk down the aisle. This is a well-written, engaging mystery that has heart, enjoyment and will make readers hungry. Readers will love No Grater Crime as much as they have the rest of the series, and I, along with other fans, look forward to the next chapter in Robbie’s life.
August 19, 2021
"No Grater Crime” the 9th book in the Country Store Mystery series by Maddie Day. I just love this series! Lindi loves it too! Robbie Jordan's Pans 'N Pancakes boasts delicious eats and the best vintage cookware finds in South Lick, Indiana. And now, for a limited time, there's a new special featured on the menu--murder!
This is the fifth book I have read in the series and I was able to follow along easily so it can be read as a stand alone. I really enjoyed it and practically read in one sitting.
I love the setting of South Lick, Indiana and I love Robbie and her staff at Pans N Pancakes they are like a big family. There were some nasty characters this time with touches on mental illness, and just plain old meanness. But through it all you still felt the good in most of South Lick. We learned more about Sean - Abe’s son and BFF Lou’s sister this go around too which was nice.
There were enough twists to keep me intrigued and wanting to know how it ends. The plot and story were good and seemed to flow at a good pace. I did suspect the killer but what a surprise ending. I’m looking forward to seeing how Robbie, Abe and Sean blend households in the next book.
I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys a cozy filled with down home characters and a small town atmosphere.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
This is the fifth book I have read in the series and I was able to follow along easily so it can be read as a stand alone. I really enjoyed it and practically read in one sitting.
I love the setting of South Lick, Indiana and I love Robbie and her staff at Pans N Pancakes they are like a big family. There were some nasty characters this time with touches on mental illness, and just plain old meanness. But through it all you still felt the good in most of South Lick. We learned more about Sean - Abe’s son and BFF Lou’s sister this go around too which was nice.
There were enough twists to keep me intrigued and wanting to know how it ends. The plot and story were good and seemed to flow at a good pace. I did suspect the killer but what a surprise ending. I’m looking forward to seeing how Robbie, Abe and Sean blend households in the next book.
I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys a cozy filled with down home characters and a small town atmosphere.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
June 12, 2021
Pans ‘N Pancakes sounds like the perfect place to enjoy a great meal, catch up with old friends, and do a little shopping in the vintage kitchen area.
This is everything Robbie Jordan has wished for, and once she marries her hunky fiancé Abe, her life will be complete.
Unfortunately for Robbie, her world starts to crumble, beginning with a possible case of food poisoning, and ending with murder.
No Grater Crime is the perfect addition to this series by the very talented Maddie Day.
It’s well done stories like this one that keeps me reading cozy mysteries.
I definitely recommend this series to anyone who simply loves a good whodunnit. I can’t wait to see what the world has in store for Robbie next.
#NoGraterCrime #NetGalley
This is everything Robbie Jordan has wished for, and once she marries her hunky fiancé Abe, her life will be complete.
Unfortunately for Robbie, her world starts to crumble, beginning with a possible case of food poisoning, and ending with murder.
No Grater Crime is the perfect addition to this series by the very talented Maddie Day.
It’s well done stories like this one that keeps me reading cozy mysteries.
I definitely recommend this series to anyone who simply loves a good whodunnit. I can’t wait to see what the world has in store for Robbie next.
#NoGraterCrime #NetGalley
October 18, 2021
I didn’t finish this book. Decided to abandon it because in this volume the author decided to air some of her political leanings and views. If I wanted to read about politics I would simply read the news.
Too bad because I enjoyed the series, the stories the characters. I won’t be continuing with any books that lean in any direction with regard to controversial or political topics.
I read to get away from all that crap.
Too bad because I enjoyed the series, the stories the characters. I won’t be continuing with any books that lean in any direction with regard to controversial or political topics.
I read to get away from all that crap.
August 23, 2021
No Grater Crime
A Country Store Mystery, Book #9
Maddie Day
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Robbie Jordan’s Pans ’N Pancakes boasts delicious eats and the best vintage cookware finds in South Lick, Indiana. And now, for a limited time, there’s a new special featured on the menu—murder!
Ever since meeting the wary owners of an antique shop opening across the street, Robbie has been scrambling to manage weird incidences plaguing her café and country store. Pricey items vanish from shelves without explanation, a fully equipped breakfast food truck starts lingering around the area each morning, and loyal diners mysteriously fall ill. When an elderly man dies after devouring an omelet packed with poisonous mushrooms, Robbie must temporarily close down Pans ’N Pancakes and search for the killer with a real zest for running her out of business—or else.
Includes Recipes for You to Try! (Amazon)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. Robbie is taking care of Pans ‘N Pancakes and finishing up plans for her wedding. She also has to keep an eye on the new owners of an antique shop that is opening soon. Some of her cookware has gone missing and a diner is killed after eating an omelet. She will have to figure out what is happening before it ruins her wedding day.
The writing style flows smoothly and it defines the characters by their actions and words. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and the descriptions pulled me into the story and took me on a great ride. The mystery is well plotted and there were enough clues to sift and suspects to consider.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I cannot wait to find out what happens next.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
A Country Store Mystery, Book #9
Maddie Day
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Robbie Jordan’s Pans ’N Pancakes boasts delicious eats and the best vintage cookware finds in South Lick, Indiana. And now, for a limited time, there’s a new special featured on the menu—murder!
Ever since meeting the wary owners of an antique shop opening across the street, Robbie has been scrambling to manage weird incidences plaguing her café and country store. Pricey items vanish from shelves without explanation, a fully equipped breakfast food truck starts lingering around the area each morning, and loyal diners mysteriously fall ill. When an elderly man dies after devouring an omelet packed with poisonous mushrooms, Robbie must temporarily close down Pans ’N Pancakes and search for the killer with a real zest for running her out of business—or else.
Includes Recipes for You to Try! (Amazon)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. Robbie is taking care of Pans ‘N Pancakes and finishing up plans for her wedding. She also has to keep an eye on the new owners of an antique shop that is opening soon. Some of her cookware has gone missing and a diner is killed after eating an omelet. She will have to figure out what is happening before it ruins her wedding day.
The writing style flows smoothly and it defines the characters by their actions and words. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and the descriptions pulled me into the story and took me on a great ride. The mystery is well plotted and there were enough clues to sift and suspects to consider.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I cannot wait to find out what happens next.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
September 5, 2021
A good series with characters we have come to love, a fun setting and of course a serious mystery. The mystery this time hits at Robbie's livelihood and has a devastating effect on people she has come to love. Although she should be busy planning her wedding, Robbie knows she has to get to the bottom of things if life as she knows is going to proceed, and her wedding can go on as planned!!!
October 10, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. The second half really had me engaged .. especially at the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2021
I have loved Maddie Day’s series, A Country Story Mystery, since I fell into the first book. The newest and ninth in the series, No Grater Crime. is my favorite since that wonderful first encounter with Robbie Jordan as she began her adventure Pans ‘N Pancakes in South Lick, Indiana. Since that first book I have drooled over tons of meals, delighted in the new friends I made, and fallen not so slowly in love with Abe, the kind of guy that real life should put in front of every good woman so she has to trip over him to miss him.
A new competing business can’t seriously phase Robbie with her loyal base until something makes a whole group of clients ill and the health department closes her down. She knows that none of her staff were careless and is determine to track down how something dangerous got into her food. Once the source is revealed, she works to find out if an accidental mix up was behind the poisonings or if someone wants to destroy her business. Even wedding plans can’t compete with the idea that she and her restaurant could end up with a permanent black-eye.
Maddie Day has mentioned the wedding so it is no spoiler to share that the wedding was perfect for Abe and Robbie and capped off a rough month in the best possible way. I hope this is just a new beginning for Robbie and Abe, but if it is the end of the series, it is a glorious one.
I requested an ARC via NetGalley and was excited to have the request approved. I love the series and No Grate Crime is the best so far!
#NetGalley #MaddieDay #NoGraterCrime #
A new competing business can’t seriously phase Robbie with her loyal base until something makes a whole group of clients ill and the health department closes her down. She knows that none of her staff were careless and is determine to track down how something dangerous got into her food. Once the source is revealed, she works to find out if an accidental mix up was behind the poisonings or if someone wants to destroy her business. Even wedding plans can’t compete with the idea that she and her restaurant could end up with a permanent black-eye.
Maddie Day has mentioned the wedding so it is no spoiler to share that the wedding was perfect for Abe and Robbie and capped off a rough month in the best possible way. I hope this is just a new beginning for Robbie and Abe, but if it is the end of the series, it is a glorious one.
I requested an ARC via NetGalley and was excited to have the request approved. I love the series and No Grate Crime is the best so far!
#NetGalley #MaddieDay #NoGraterCrime #
December 29, 2024
These characters were an awesome treat to read. This was my first time reading a book from this series and I finished it in a day. I love the characters, even the ones you know you are supposed to hate. I also really enjoyed the different slang terms. I am from the Midwest and I never heard some of them but now I think I will. This is a truly enjoyable read and I can't wait to read more.
Thank you Kensington Books and NetGalley for the advanced read.
Thank you Kensington Books and NetGalley for the advanced read.
March 28, 2023
This mystery was an enjoyable one, but the book loses a star for the author's habit of using fatphobic and food shaming language. In this one, she makes snide comments about a character's health, when the only "evidence" of bad health is the character's weight. She also praises one characters disordered eating as healthy. I can do without all of it, but enjoy the characters in this series so can't seem to give it up.
June 25, 2021
Such a fun series and this one didn’t disappoint. A wedding! Murder! Mystery galore. Enjoy this one in one quick read.
July 19, 2022
A little too much political/social issue stuff for me.
November 20, 2021
https://openbooksociety.com/article/n...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Jeanie
This is one of the best mysteries in the series! The crime is very personal this time and kept me guessing and second-guessing at every twist and turn. Characters are dynamic in that they change and grow through life experiences. The setting of springtime in Indiana sounds so appealing, especially as the author invites us to see and hear the birds on Robbie’s bicycle travels.
Robbie and Abe’s wedding is only about a month away, and ideally, she should be putting last minute preparations in place. Her perfect wedding dress has been selected, and Aunt Adele’s sheep farm is providing the perfect venue for the wedding and reception. Instead, a crisis at her country store and restaurant, Pans ‘N Pancakes, keeps her attention.
Adele and Robbie went to an antique fair in another town, and Robbie hoped to find more vintage kitchenware to sell in her country store. While there, they ran into a man who had held a serious grudge against Adele for over twenty years, Francis, and his second wife, Hattie. Hattie said they were opening a high-end antique shop in South Lick, and it is in the recently renovated old home Robbie’s store. Francis and Hattie had been owners of FH Foods, the wholesaler that Robbie and many restaurants in the area purchased from. Their son-in-law now runs it.
Trouble started the next day. Francis and Hattie came in for breakfast, and all the graters Robbie purchased at the antique fair were gone. Neither Robbie nor her staff, Danna and Turner, had sold even one of them. Robbie did notice that the huge, quilted bag Hattie carried looked quite full, but could not see what was in it. She determined to keep a close eye on Hattie in the future.
Their wholesaler, FH Foods, had not delivered enough of some items to cover their breakfast shift, including potatoes and mushrooms. They had more business than usual for a Sunday morning, including a tour van that brought about twenty tourists who thoroughly enjoyed their meal. Buck, our favorite local lieutenant with the huge appetite seemed somewhat unwell when he left. Despite his cast iron tummy, he had indigestion.
Buck and his cousin Wanda, a detective for the local sheriff’s department, came in for lunch. He and Wanda were getting information on their phones from a doctor at an urgent care facility in a nearby town. Several tourists had gone in feeling poorly. The one thing they had in common was having had the mushroom omelet at Robbie’s. All except one would be fine. An elderly man had been sent to the university hospital where he later died. The health department shut down Robbie’s dream business. Not long after, Buck told Robbie she needed to get an attorney, as the elderly man’s children wanted Robbie charged – with negligent homicide.
The day after Robbie was shut down, a food truck called KK’s Sandos opened for business across the street, in front of new antique shop. While it was typically the only day of the week Robbie is closed to have a day off, it seems unusual that it opens now, especially when Krystal, Francis’s daughter, is the operator of the truck and is serving breakfast and lunch, as Robbie typically would.
If I were in the Midwest, I would have to look twice if I saw two young women bicycling together to see if it was Robbie and her friend Lou. They could step off the pages into real life; it feels as if Robbie, Adele, and others in South Lick are like old friends with this reader. They are active, hard-working, and do not fit into a mold of a typical small town, Midwest person.
This very compelling read includes elements that make it a real page-turner! Robbie keeps herself on track for their wedding and trying to reopen her restaurant while continuing to seek the bad guy. There are several possible suspects, but would any of them risk their livelihoods and for what gain? I was startled to see who the bad guy really was and why. All loose ends were tied up, and I am looking forward to the next in series! I highly recommend this cozy mystery; it can be read as a standalone or as part of the series.
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Jeanie
This is one of the best mysteries in the series! The crime is very personal this time and kept me guessing and second-guessing at every twist and turn. Characters are dynamic in that they change and grow through life experiences. The setting of springtime in Indiana sounds so appealing, especially as the author invites us to see and hear the birds on Robbie’s bicycle travels.
Robbie and Abe’s wedding is only about a month away, and ideally, she should be putting last minute preparations in place. Her perfect wedding dress has been selected, and Aunt Adele’s sheep farm is providing the perfect venue for the wedding and reception. Instead, a crisis at her country store and restaurant, Pans ‘N Pancakes, keeps her attention.
Adele and Robbie went to an antique fair in another town, and Robbie hoped to find more vintage kitchenware to sell in her country store. While there, they ran into a man who had held a serious grudge against Adele for over twenty years, Francis, and his second wife, Hattie. Hattie said they were opening a high-end antique shop in South Lick, and it is in the recently renovated old home Robbie’s store. Francis and Hattie had been owners of FH Foods, the wholesaler that Robbie and many restaurants in the area purchased from. Their son-in-law now runs it.
Trouble started the next day. Francis and Hattie came in for breakfast, and all the graters Robbie purchased at the antique fair were gone. Neither Robbie nor her staff, Danna and Turner, had sold even one of them. Robbie did notice that the huge, quilted bag Hattie carried looked quite full, but could not see what was in it. She determined to keep a close eye on Hattie in the future.
Their wholesaler, FH Foods, had not delivered enough of some items to cover their breakfast shift, including potatoes and mushrooms. They had more business than usual for a Sunday morning, including a tour van that brought about twenty tourists who thoroughly enjoyed their meal. Buck, our favorite local lieutenant with the huge appetite seemed somewhat unwell when he left. Despite his cast iron tummy, he had indigestion.
Buck and his cousin Wanda, a detective for the local sheriff’s department, came in for lunch. He and Wanda were getting information on their phones from a doctor at an urgent care facility in a nearby town. Several tourists had gone in feeling poorly. The one thing they had in common was having had the mushroom omelet at Robbie’s. All except one would be fine. An elderly man had been sent to the university hospital where he later died. The health department shut down Robbie’s dream business. Not long after, Buck told Robbie she needed to get an attorney, as the elderly man’s children wanted Robbie charged – with negligent homicide.
The day after Robbie was shut down, a food truck called KK’s Sandos opened for business across the street, in front of new antique shop. While it was typically the only day of the week Robbie is closed to have a day off, it seems unusual that it opens now, especially when Krystal, Francis’s daughter, is the operator of the truck and is serving breakfast and lunch, as Robbie typically would.
If I were in the Midwest, I would have to look twice if I saw two young women bicycling together to see if it was Robbie and her friend Lou. They could step off the pages into real life; it feels as if Robbie, Adele, and others in South Lick are like old friends with this reader. They are active, hard-working, and do not fit into a mold of a typical small town, Midwest person.
This very compelling read includes elements that make it a real page-turner! Robbie keeps herself on track for their wedding and trying to reopen her restaurant while continuing to seek the bad guy. There are several possible suspects, but would any of them risk their livelihoods and for what gain? I was startled to see who the bad guy really was and why. All loose ends were tied up, and I am looking forward to the next in series! I highly recommend this cozy mystery; it can be read as a standalone or as part of the series.
August 18, 2021
NO GRATER CRIME is the nineth book in the Country Store Mysteries by Maddie Day. Set in Indiana, the author captures the essence of the Midwest with the mannerisms and vernacular of the small-town residents. Her strong descriptive voice brings the area to life and allows the reader to feel like they’re living right alongside Robbie Jordan, owner of the Pans ‘N Pancakes. Robbie is busy running her successful café and shop, plus planning her wedding to Abe and getting to know her future step-son. Ms. Day has allowed the characters to grow and evolve over the course of the series, and as a result, I feel invested in what happens to them. I love how they are kind and supportive of each other. Even when facing unsavory characters or delving into investigations, Robbie manages to exude a sense of kindness.
With everything going on the last thing Robbie needed or wanted was for someone to die in her restaurant after eating her omelet containing poisonous mushrooms. With the café temporarily closed, Robbie feels obligated to find out how the mushrooms ended up in her kitchen, and who might have wanted the man dead. Or, is someone trying to frame Robbie and put her out of business? Ms. Day sets the mystery up and then delivers a pitch perfect investigation. While it seems kind of obvious from the onset who might be responsible for the crime, there are twists and turns to follow alongside Robbie. I waffled back and forth multiple times as I followed the clues until the final reveal. Wrapping up the story is a heartwarming end that will leave a smile on the reader’s face and the desire to find out what is in the future for Robbie.
Running a café gives Robbie the opportunity to showcase her culinary skills. Be prepared to be hungry from all the mouthwatering descriptions mentioned on the pages, and be sure to check out all the recipes included at the back of the book.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
With everything going on the last thing Robbie needed or wanted was for someone to die in her restaurant after eating her omelet containing poisonous mushrooms. With the café temporarily closed, Robbie feels obligated to find out how the mushrooms ended up in her kitchen, and who might have wanted the man dead. Or, is someone trying to frame Robbie and put her out of business? Ms. Day sets the mystery up and then delivers a pitch perfect investigation. While it seems kind of obvious from the onset who might be responsible for the crime, there are twists and turns to follow alongside Robbie. I waffled back and forth multiple times as I followed the clues until the final reveal. Wrapping up the story is a heartwarming end that will leave a smile on the reader’s face and the desire to find out what is in the future for Robbie.
Running a café gives Robbie the opportunity to showcase her culinary skills. Be prepared to be hungry from all the mouthwatering descriptions mentioned on the pages, and be sure to check out all the recipes included at the back of the book.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 18, 2022
Robbie Jordan owns Pans and Pancakes, a breakfast and lunch place in Indiana.
But all of a sudden there are some strange things happening with her restaurant/store.
A breakfast truck moves right across the street, items get stolen from her store, some diners fall ill.
It seems too have started when the owners of the Antique business moved in and opened their store across the street.
Unfortunately, an older gentleman dies from poisonous mushrooms mysteriously dropped off with her usual food order.
Pans and Pancakes gets shut down.
Robbie is at loose ends trying to figure out what in the heck is going on and things seem to be getting pretty dangerous.
Lots of great characters, small town gossip and friendly people, fun story!
But all of a sudden there are some strange things happening with her restaurant/store.
A breakfast truck moves right across the street, items get stolen from her store, some diners fall ill.
It seems too have started when the owners of the Antique business moved in and opened their store across the street.
Unfortunately, an older gentleman dies from poisonous mushrooms mysteriously dropped off with her usual food order.
Pans and Pancakes gets shut down.
Robbie is at loose ends trying to figure out what in the heck is going on and things seem to be getting pretty dangerous.
Lots of great characters, small town gossip and friendly people, fun story!
December 28, 2022
Very enjoyable! Once again, the character development is exceptional. It develops more and more with each book in the series. In this book, an antique store opens up across the street from Pans 'N Pancakes and provides a lot of interesting developments. I look forward to reading all future books in this series!
August 22, 2021
My fourth in this series although it is the ninth instalment, Robbie Jordan, the owner of Pans 'N Pancakes makes a great amateur sleuth. She gets involved when a man eats an omelette in the restaurant and dies. There has also been a spate of other incidences; regular customers have been falling ill, vintage cookware items have been disappearing from the shelves in the cookshop and who does the food van belong to that has been appearing every morning?
Danger lurks in this charming tale set in South Lick, Indiana. Robbie is due to be marrying handsome and charming Abe O'Neill, an electrical lineman. She is a methodical, determined and single-minded protagonist and you get a real sense of place and family from her restaurant/ diner which is one of her main focuses. The supporting cast is a real asset to the series including the regular customers, Robbie's Aunt Adele and employees Danna Beedle and Turner Rao. A heartwarming end wraps up the story that left me smiling. Humorous and endearing, I shall be continuing with this series and hope to read a few of the earlier instalments while I wait for book ten, Batter Off Dead to be released.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
Danger lurks in this charming tale set in South Lick, Indiana. Robbie is due to be marrying handsome and charming Abe O'Neill, an electrical lineman. She is a methodical, determined and single-minded protagonist and you get a real sense of place and family from her restaurant/ diner which is one of her main focuses. The supporting cast is a real asset to the series including the regular customers, Robbie's Aunt Adele and employees Danna Beedle and Turner Rao. A heartwarming end wraps up the story that left me smiling. Humorous and endearing, I shall be continuing with this series and hope to read a few of the earlier instalments while I wait for book ten, Batter Off Dead to be released.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
August 22, 2021
I loved this story! There was so much going on. From the poisoning of the guests, the new neighbors on the street, to wedding planning, it kept me glued to the book the whole time; I didn't want to put it down. Robbie was super busy fighting crime and making breakfasts but she still had time for tender moments with family and friends. There was a perfect balance of mystery and community in this one and it had a satisfying ending. I did figure out who the killer was before the end but I think the book was written that way.
I received a copy from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I received a copy from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
November 2, 2021
I really enjoyed this visit to South Lick, Indiana, to see the gang at Pans ‘N Pancakes! Robbie and Abe’s wedding is almost here, business has never been better, and life is good. This mystery is one of my favorites in the series. The crime hits Robbie very hard and could even result in jail time unless they find whodunit. I enjoyed hearing, seeing, even sniffing springtime in the Midwest, reminding me of life where the seasons change. I also appreciated seeing Robbie’s feelings throughout, including about those who could and couldn’t be at the wedding, all that Abe is to her, and the poisonings.
Robbie, her friend Lou, and Aunt Adele have the plans almost complete for the wedding and reception. Her father and his wife will be there from Italy for the big day, and Abe’s son Sean is very happy for Robbie to join the family. The wedding sounds very elegant in its desired simplicity.
Robbie and Adele went to a huge antique fair, and they ran into someone who has been bitter with Adele for 23 years and 15 days for something she had no control over. Francis and Hattie Sand had a food wholesale company for many years. While Robbie was looking for kitchen gadgets to sell at her country store and restaurant, Pans ‘N Pancakes, they were looking for high-end antiques for the store they will open in a few days. They have been renovating the old home across the street from Robbie’s restaurant for their new business. The husband of Francis’s daughter, Krystal, now runs the food wholesale business and is the supplier Robbie uses. Francis makes it clear how he still feels about Adele, yet he offered Robbie a tour of their store.
The following day, however, almost everything changed for Robbie’s business. The vintage graters Robbie purchased at the fair disappeared. She suspects Hattie had something to do with that. Her friend and regular customer, Buck, a police lieutenant, brought her news that no restauranteur wants to hear. He and his cousin Wanda, a detective with the sheriff’s department, were just advised that many people were in the urgent care in a nearby town. All had the mushroom omelet special at Robbie’s. A sweet, elderly widower died, and his family wants her charged with negligent homicide. As if that isn’t enough, the following day Krystal opened a breakfast and lunch food truck across the street from the shut-down Pans ‘N Pancakes.
Buck is not sharing with Robbie about the investigation as he usually does. She doesn’t know if they are looking at the same suspects but shares with him what she learns. All her suspects are related to Francis and Hattie. Even – Abe’s ex-wife? The ex-wife who is unhappy they are getting married despite divorce being her idea more than a decade ago. Why didn’t Abe tell Robbie that his ex was related to the family? Adele, former fire chief and mayor of South Lick, knows everyone, and she didn’t tell Robbie either. If any of them are behind the mushroom debacle, what will that do to Abe’s 15-year-old son to have a family member responsible for illness and death?
The real whodunit was one of my suspects but didn’t think the motives I considered were that serious. The resolution covered all the bases. The end of the novel was very satisfying! I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries, are fans of the author or series, and enjoy novels with the perfect blend of mystery, family, and friends.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this novel, and this is my review.
Robbie, her friend Lou, and Aunt Adele have the plans almost complete for the wedding and reception. Her father and his wife will be there from Italy for the big day, and Abe’s son Sean is very happy for Robbie to join the family. The wedding sounds very elegant in its desired simplicity.
Robbie and Adele went to a huge antique fair, and they ran into someone who has been bitter with Adele for 23 years and 15 days for something she had no control over. Francis and Hattie Sand had a food wholesale company for many years. While Robbie was looking for kitchen gadgets to sell at her country store and restaurant, Pans ‘N Pancakes, they were looking for high-end antiques for the store they will open in a few days. They have been renovating the old home across the street from Robbie’s restaurant for their new business. The husband of Francis’s daughter, Krystal, now runs the food wholesale business and is the supplier Robbie uses. Francis makes it clear how he still feels about Adele, yet he offered Robbie a tour of their store.
The following day, however, almost everything changed for Robbie’s business. The vintage graters Robbie purchased at the fair disappeared. She suspects Hattie had something to do with that. Her friend and regular customer, Buck, a police lieutenant, brought her news that no restauranteur wants to hear. He and his cousin Wanda, a detective with the sheriff’s department, were just advised that many people were in the urgent care in a nearby town. All had the mushroom omelet special at Robbie’s. A sweet, elderly widower died, and his family wants her charged with negligent homicide. As if that isn’t enough, the following day Krystal opened a breakfast and lunch food truck across the street from the shut-down Pans ‘N Pancakes.
Buck is not sharing with Robbie about the investigation as he usually does. She doesn’t know if they are looking at the same suspects but shares with him what she learns. All her suspects are related to Francis and Hattie. Even – Abe’s ex-wife? The ex-wife who is unhappy they are getting married despite divorce being her idea more than a decade ago. Why didn’t Abe tell Robbie that his ex was related to the family? Adele, former fire chief and mayor of South Lick, knows everyone, and she didn’t tell Robbie either. If any of them are behind the mushroom debacle, what will that do to Abe’s 15-year-old son to have a family member responsible for illness and death?
The real whodunit was one of my suspects but didn’t think the motives I considered were that serious. The resolution covered all the bases. The end of the novel was very satisfying! I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries, are fans of the author or series, and enjoy novels with the perfect blend of mystery, family, and friends.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this novel, and this is my review.
August 23, 2021
No Grater Crime is the ninth book in the Country Store Mystery series by Maddie Day.
While shopping at a flea market, Robbie and her Aunt Adele meet up with Hattie and Felix. Robbie notices that they are not acting like “old friends.” As they talk, Hattie informs Robbie that she and Felix will soon open an antique shop across from Robbie’s cafe. Robbie also learns that Hattie and Felix’s daughter plans to operate a food truck in front of the antique store. Robbie is finally able to get out of her aunt why her relationship with them seemed off. Felix’s son was being bullied and asked Adele for help, but the support didn’t happen soon enough, and he committed suicide. Felix has held Adele responsible for his death.
The next day, Hattie and Felix came into Robbie’s cafe with friends to eat and were quick to point out their daughter’s food truck. Soon, an elderly gentleman who was eating an omelet becomes ill and is taken to the hospital. He later dies, and his death was attributed to eating poisonous mushrooms. The county health department comes and shuts down the cafe until an investigation on how this happened is completed. As Robbie is closing up after the health department leaves, she notices that some of the items she had gotten at the flea market are gone. The last person she saw in that area was Hattie.
With the cafe shut down, Robbie set off to see if someone was trying to shut her business down, trying to kill her, or was it just an accident. She suspects the company she orders her food and wisely changes suppliers. Robbie gets Aunt Adele and her fiancee, Abe, to help with her sleuthing. She hopes to solve the murder quickly as she would like to get her business opened, and, most notably, her marriage to Abe is fast approaching.
The book is descriptive enough that the reader feels like they are there. It has an enjoyable cast of believable and well-developed characters. The book is well-developed and plotted. The book contains enough red herrings that I was kept guessing until the end as to who the murderer was.
The book also contains delicious-sounding recipes.
I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in this delicious series.
While shopping at a flea market, Robbie and her Aunt Adele meet up with Hattie and Felix. Robbie notices that they are not acting like “old friends.” As they talk, Hattie informs Robbie that she and Felix will soon open an antique shop across from Robbie’s cafe. Robbie also learns that Hattie and Felix’s daughter plans to operate a food truck in front of the antique store. Robbie is finally able to get out of her aunt why her relationship with them seemed off. Felix’s son was being bullied and asked Adele for help, but the support didn’t happen soon enough, and he committed suicide. Felix has held Adele responsible for his death.
The next day, Hattie and Felix came into Robbie’s cafe with friends to eat and were quick to point out their daughter’s food truck. Soon, an elderly gentleman who was eating an omelet becomes ill and is taken to the hospital. He later dies, and his death was attributed to eating poisonous mushrooms. The county health department comes and shuts down the cafe until an investigation on how this happened is completed. As Robbie is closing up after the health department leaves, she notices that some of the items she had gotten at the flea market are gone. The last person she saw in that area was Hattie.
With the cafe shut down, Robbie set off to see if someone was trying to shut her business down, trying to kill her, or was it just an accident. She suspects the company she orders her food and wisely changes suppliers. Robbie gets Aunt Adele and her fiancee, Abe, to help with her sleuthing. She hopes to solve the murder quickly as she would like to get her business opened, and, most notably, her marriage to Abe is fast approaching.
The book is descriptive enough that the reader feels like they are there. It has an enjoyable cast of believable and well-developed characters. The book is well-developed and plotted. The book contains enough red herrings that I was kept guessing until the end as to who the murderer was.
The book also contains delicious-sounding recipes.
I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in this delicious series.
July 14, 2021
Another solid hit in the Country Store series! This was another fabulous and well-constructed story. What I love the most is that we’re seeing continual growth and development of the characters in the story as the series moves on - people change, grow, grow up, new phases of life, new friends. It keeps the series exciting and the wrap-up of the story has left me excited to see what the next installment will hold for Robbie and her crew.
July 9, 2021
Robbie Jordan , owner of Pan's and Pancakes is preparing for her up coming wedding to Abe O'Neill. When several people get sick from eating her mushroom quiche special and someone even dies. She's shut down. Meanwhile a new shop opens across the road and a food truck appears. How convient. Turns out the owner of that food truck is married to Orlando Krueger who happens to be twin to Abe's ex Jan . Now Jan isn't happy that Abe and Robbie are getting married but would she go as far as switching mushrooms in Robbies food order? But then Jan tends up dying from the same mushrooms. Now what? Will Robbie even get to her wedding ceremony or is someone out to get her? Lots of good action.
July 8, 2021
Cozy mysteries are my favorite genre and Maddie Day is a great author! This is the ninth book in the series and I think they just keep getting better. I love reading about the restaurant and seeing the development of the characters that have been around from the beginning. This is a great series and I highly recommend it to anyone who also enjoys cozies!
July 5, 2021
I absolutely loved this book, and I couldn't put it down. The main characters are likeable and relatable. I like how they are there for each other to lend a hand, or to just listen. I appreciate that Robbie stands up for herself, and she and Abe make a great couple. This story flowed so well, and I am looking forward to more books in this series.
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