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Ainsley McGregor #4
A Case for the Candle Maker
Play with candles and you might get burned…
Ainsley McGregor has her hands full preparing for Sweet River’s Valentine’s Day celebration and her bestie’s wedding. So when a mysterious woman pitches selling her candles in Ainsley’s shop, Bless Your Art, Ainsley nearly blows her off. But the candle’s fragrance is evocative, and she can’t resist placing an order.
The candles are a hit, quickly selling out, but when Ainsley calls the woman to buy more, she’s unreachable. Hoping to connect, Ainsley and her Great Dane, George Clooney, stop by the local bed and breakfast. When George whines outside her room, Ainsley is afraid to look. She soon discovers that the candle maker is dead—in a room that was locked from the inside.
Although her brother, the town sheriff, is on the case, Ainsley believes the prime suspect is innocent. Intent to prove it, Ainsley once again drops into sleuth mode, discovering some surprising truths about the mystery woman. But has she just put herself in the killer’s crosshairs?
Ainsley McGregor has her hands full preparing for Sweet River’s Valentine’s Day celebration and her bestie’s wedding. So when a mysterious woman pitches selling her candles in Ainsley’s shop, Bless Your Art, Ainsley nearly blows her off. But the candle’s fragrance is evocative, and she can’t resist placing an order.
The candles are a hit, quickly selling out, but when Ainsley calls the woman to buy more, she’s unreachable. Hoping to connect, Ainsley and her Great Dane, George Clooney, stop by the local bed and breakfast. When George whines outside her room, Ainsley is afraid to look. She soon discovers that the candle maker is dead—in a room that was locked from the inside.
Although her brother, the town sheriff, is on the case, Ainsley believes the prime suspect is innocent. Intent to prove it, Ainsley once again drops into sleuth mode, discovering some surprising truths about the mystery woman. But has she just put herself in the killer’s crosshairs?
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 9, 2021
300 people are currently reading
345 people want to read
About the author
Candace Havens
70 books1,016 followersBestselling author Candace Havens has published more than 25 books. Her novels have received nominations for the RITA's, Holt Medallion, Write Touch Reader Awards and National Readers Choice Awards. She is a Barbara Wilson Award winner. She is the author of the biography “Joss Whedon: The Genius Behind Buffy” and a contributor to several anthologies. She is also one of the nation's leading entertainment journalists and has interviewed countless celebrities from George Clooney to Chris Pratt. Candace also runs a free online writing workshop for more than 2000 writers, and teaches comprehensive writing classes. She does film reviews with Hawkeye in the Morning on 96.3 KSCS, and is a former President of the Television Critics Association.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
February 21, 2021
Not gonna lie- Jake and Ainsley made this one for me. It was a fun read but I just love them so much
February 6, 2021
I enjoyed reading A Case for the Candle Maker by Candace Havens book four in her Ainsley McGregor mystery series. Ainsley McGregor, a former, and now part-time, English professor, followed her dream and opened an artisan market in Sweet River, Texas. The market, “Bless Your Art”, would be a central location for local artists to sell their merchandise and teach classes, as well as hopefully bring tourists to the town.
Ainsley is more than busy between her shop, Bless Your Art, Sweet River’s Valentine Day celebration, and her best friend’s wedding. When an unknown artist asks to sell her candles in Ainsley shop, Ainsley almost turns her down; until the candle maker lights one. The candle’s fragrance is aromatic and pleasing; taking a chance, Ainsley can’t resist placing an order to sell them. With the candle sold out, Ainsley seeks out the woman to buy more but is unable to reach her. Ainsley and her Great Dane, George Clooney, stop by the local bed and breakfast to see if she’s in. Once again, George sniffs out a dead body as he whines outside a door that was locked from the inside. Ainsley’s brother, the town sheriff, might be on the case, but she believes the prime suspect is innocent. Following all the twists and turns left by killer, all Ainsley needs to do is stay safe and alive, expose the killer, and be maid of honor at her best friend’s wedding.
I genuinely enjoyed reading this funny, sweet and intriguing book and had trouble putting this book down. Ms Havens kept me on my toes guessing who the killer was, throwing in some challenging red herrings, until I turned the last page. Her writing had me feeling as if I was there, watching the events unfold. I loved seeing how far Ainsley’s relationship with Jake had progressed. I highly recommend A Case for the Candle Maker to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ainsley is more than busy between her shop, Bless Your Art, Sweet River’s Valentine Day celebration, and her best friend’s wedding. When an unknown artist asks to sell her candles in Ainsley shop, Ainsley almost turns her down; until the candle maker lights one. The candle’s fragrance is aromatic and pleasing; taking a chance, Ainsley can’t resist placing an order to sell them. With the candle sold out, Ainsley seeks out the woman to buy more but is unable to reach her. Ainsley and her Great Dane, George Clooney, stop by the local bed and breakfast to see if she’s in. Once again, George sniffs out a dead body as he whines outside a door that was locked from the inside. Ainsley’s brother, the town sheriff, might be on the case, but she believes the prime suspect is innocent. Following all the twists and turns left by killer, all Ainsley needs to do is stay safe and alive, expose the killer, and be maid of honor at her best friend’s wedding.
I genuinely enjoyed reading this funny, sweet and intriguing book and had trouble putting this book down. Ms Havens kept me on my toes guessing who the killer was, throwing in some challenging red herrings, until I turned the last page. Her writing had me feeling as if I was there, watching the events unfold. I loved seeing how far Ainsley’s relationship with Jake had progressed. I highly recommend A Case for the Candle Maker to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
February 1, 2021
I received this arc from Tule Publishing in exchange for an honest review. I really am enjoying this mystery series by Candace Havens featuring Ainsley McGregor. This is the fourth in the series. A woman arrives at Bless This Art to see about selling her candles in the shop. At first Ainsley is hesitant to allow it but the scents are so enticing that she agrees. They are so popular that customers are buying them faster than the candle maker can display them. Ainsley and her best friend Shannon invite the woman, Jasmine to go to dinner with them and 3 really hit it off. Jasmine returns to the B&B she is staying at an promises to bring more candles the next. Day to the shop.
The next day Jasmine doesn’t return to Bless This Art so Ainsley and her dog George Clooney go to see if all is okay at the B&B. They can’t get in Jasmine’s room. They call Ainsley’s brother Greg, the sheriff while George sniffs out another death. Ainsley’s upset as it appears her new friend is dead. However, it is discovered that the body is actually Jasmine’s sister. The coroner and the sheriff are working on the case with Ainsley trying to learn as much as she can to try to help solve the mystery. As always she is warned by Greg to not interfere. It also looks to be another murder.
Ainsley and Shannon do some research and learn Jasmine is from a wealthy family. Jasmine shared that he had 4 sisters and her father was very protective over their lives. She escaped many years ago and hadn’t seen any of her sisters or father since. She was close to her uncle and cousin only. It also came out that Jasmine talked briefly to her sister before she gave her the key to her room and Jasmine went back to her house to get more candles. The sister told her the father had just died. She also wasn’t speaking clearly and coherently, worrying Jasmine. Jasmine’s other sisters came to see her and had an awkward reunion. Meanwhile Ainsley and Shannon work on solving who murdered the sister and possibly the dad.
The mystery was well written and fun to try to solve along with Ainsley. I really liked the plot and was happy to see more shared about Ainsley and Jake’s relationship. Both the mystery and the various relationships make this an entertaining and enjoyable book and series to read. Another 5 stars for book 4!
The next day Jasmine doesn’t return to Bless This Art so Ainsley and her dog George Clooney go to see if all is okay at the B&B. They can’t get in Jasmine’s room. They call Ainsley’s brother Greg, the sheriff while George sniffs out another death. Ainsley’s upset as it appears her new friend is dead. However, it is discovered that the body is actually Jasmine’s sister. The coroner and the sheriff are working on the case with Ainsley trying to learn as much as she can to try to help solve the mystery. As always she is warned by Greg to not interfere. It also looks to be another murder.
Ainsley and Shannon do some research and learn Jasmine is from a wealthy family. Jasmine shared that he had 4 sisters and her father was very protective over their lives. She escaped many years ago and hadn’t seen any of her sisters or father since. She was close to her uncle and cousin only. It also came out that Jasmine talked briefly to her sister before she gave her the key to her room and Jasmine went back to her house to get more candles. The sister told her the father had just died. She also wasn’t speaking clearly and coherently, worrying Jasmine. Jasmine’s other sisters came to see her and had an awkward reunion. Meanwhile Ainsley and Shannon work on solving who murdered the sister and possibly the dad.
The mystery was well written and fun to try to solve along with Ainsley. I really liked the plot and was happy to see more shared about Ainsley and Jake’s relationship. Both the mystery and the various relationships make this an entertaining and enjoyable book and series to read. Another 5 stars for book 4!
April 17, 2024
Fun and quirky
I haven’t read the other books in the series and was easily able to read this book as a standalone. The characters were fun, and the murder plot was interesting to follow. I would definitely recommend and would think about reading the others in this series.
I haven’t read the other books in the series and was easily able to read this book as a standalone. The characters were fun, and the murder plot was interesting to follow. I would definitely recommend and would think about reading the others in this series.
August 15, 2024
Nice simple cozy mystery that felt reminiscent of reading Nancy Drew
February 7, 2021
Another awesome read in the series.
April 22, 2025
It’s the week before Valentine’s Day, and Sweet River is preparing for another festival, with Ainsley and Bless Your Art at the center of the planning. Newcomer Jasmine, whose family is originally from Sweet River, brings her highly-sought-after homemade candles to sell, along with a dead body in her hotel room. Since Ainsley and Shannon have already claimed Jasmine as one of their tribe, the pair help Jasmine unravel the mystery of who killed her sister.
After having some serious issues with the previous book, I am happy to report that A Case for the Candle Maker addresses my concerns, and I am satisfied that the series is moving in the right direction. Ainsley’s personal life is moving forward and her relationship with Jake feels settled. She’s matured and although her actions still have a hiccup or two, she’s learned to communicate. Also, the book a solid balance between the mystery and the personal lives of the characters. The side story with Ainsley’s stalker felt over the top, but then after I realized it helped show us (and Ainsley) that she’s matured emotionally.
The mystery is solid, although it felt a little similar to A Case for the Yarn Maker (book 2). I appreciate that the police recognize that Ainsley has a knack for solving crimes and that she makes folks feel comfortable so they open up to her. Meanwhile, Ainsley is getting smarter and acknowledges that she doesn’t always make smart choices when it comes to solving crimes. This leads to an understanding and cooperation between Ainsley and the police, which makes for a better mystery.
Narration: the story is shared via the first person POV of Ainsley. Wetherell’s voice is strong and matter of fact, which suits Ainsley who is observant and focused. Wetherell does a great job of altering character dialogue based on gender, age, and in some cases ethnicity, adding slight accents without overemphasizing them. She produces a wide range of voices, both male and female, and does great non-speaking cues like chocking up, laughing, etc.
A Case for the Candle Maker restores my faith in the series, and I look forward more tales in the Ainsley McGregor series.
My Ratings:
Story: B+
Narration: B+
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by Netgalley
After having some serious issues with the previous book, I am happy to report that A Case for the Candle Maker addresses my concerns, and I am satisfied that the series is moving in the right direction. Ainsley’s personal life is moving forward and her relationship with Jake feels settled. She’s matured and although her actions still have a hiccup or two, she’s learned to communicate. Also, the book a solid balance between the mystery and the personal lives of the characters. The side story with Ainsley’s stalker felt over the top, but then after I realized it helped show us (and Ainsley) that she’s matured emotionally.
The mystery is solid, although it felt a little similar to A Case for the Yarn Maker (book 2). I appreciate that the police recognize that Ainsley has a knack for solving crimes and that she makes folks feel comfortable so they open up to her. Meanwhile, Ainsley is getting smarter and acknowledges that she doesn’t always make smart choices when it comes to solving crimes. This leads to an understanding and cooperation between Ainsley and the police, which makes for a better mystery.
Narration: the story is shared via the first person POV of Ainsley. Wetherell’s voice is strong and matter of fact, which suits Ainsley who is observant and focused. Wetherell does a great job of altering character dialogue based on gender, age, and in some cases ethnicity, adding slight accents without overemphasizing them. She produces a wide range of voices, both male and female, and does great non-speaking cues like chocking up, laughing, etc.
A Case for the Candle Maker restores my faith in the series, and I look forward more tales in the Ainsley McGregor series.
My Ratings:
Story: B+
Narration: B+
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by Netgalley
February 9, 2021
A Case for the Candle Maker by Candace Havens
Play with candles and you might get burned…
Ainsley McGregor has her hands full preparing for Sweet River’s Valentine’s Day celebration and her bestie’s wedding. So when a mysterious woman pitches selling her candles in Ainsley’s shop, Bless Your Art, Ainsley nearly blows her off. But the candle’s fragrance is evocative, and she can’t resist placing an order.
The candles are a hit, quickly selling out, but when Ainsley calls the woman to buy more, she’s unreachable. Hoping to connect, Ainsley and her Great Dane, George Clooney, stop by the local bed and breakfast. When George whines outside her room, Ainsley is afraid to look. She soon discovers that the candle maker is dead—in a room that was locked from the inside.
Although her brother, the town sheriff, is on the case, Ainsley believes the prime suspect is innocent. Intent to prove it, Ainsley once again drops into sleuth mode, discovering some surprising truths about the mystery woman. But has she just put herself in the killer’s crosshairs?
This is Ainsley McGregor's story.
Bless Your Art buzzed with people buying Valentine’s gifts, which should have made me so happy. Okay, it did. But having three of my crafters, the ones who were supposed to be running the registers, out with the flu was not so fun. George Clooney sighed at my feet. “I promise, dude, as soon as it dies down we’ll go out.” He grunted like he didn’t believe me. “I don’t blame you.” I’d been saying the same thing for an hour but there hadn’t been a lull in the shop since we opened the doors.
A woman who reminded me of Halle Berry— like so beautiful she belonged on a magazine cover— cleared her throat. “Excuse me?” she said softly. Maybe it was low blood sugar but I had the toughest time focusing. She put a couple of candles on the counter but I didn’t recognize them. A soft scent of vanilla and cinnamon wafted through my sinuses. The tension in my shoulders dropped and I sighed happily.
“I’m Jasmine Levy,” she said, and then smiled. “I know you’re busy— if you show me where you want me to set up, I can do it myself. I don’t want to keep your customers waiting.”
I recommend reading.
A Case for the Candle Maker by Candace Havens is a 4 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Candace Havens.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Play with candles and you might get burned…
Ainsley McGregor has her hands full preparing for Sweet River’s Valentine’s Day celebration and her bestie’s wedding. So when a mysterious woman pitches selling her candles in Ainsley’s shop, Bless Your Art, Ainsley nearly blows her off. But the candle’s fragrance is evocative, and she can’t resist placing an order.
The candles are a hit, quickly selling out, but when Ainsley calls the woman to buy more, she’s unreachable. Hoping to connect, Ainsley and her Great Dane, George Clooney, stop by the local bed and breakfast. When George whines outside her room, Ainsley is afraid to look. She soon discovers that the candle maker is dead—in a room that was locked from the inside.
Although her brother, the town sheriff, is on the case, Ainsley believes the prime suspect is innocent. Intent to prove it, Ainsley once again drops into sleuth mode, discovering some surprising truths about the mystery woman. But has she just put herself in the killer’s crosshairs?
This is Ainsley McGregor's story.
Bless Your Art buzzed with people buying Valentine’s gifts, which should have made me so happy. Okay, it did. But having three of my crafters, the ones who were supposed to be running the registers, out with the flu was not so fun. George Clooney sighed at my feet. “I promise, dude, as soon as it dies down we’ll go out.” He grunted like he didn’t believe me. “I don’t blame you.” I’d been saying the same thing for an hour but there hadn’t been a lull in the shop since we opened the doors.
A woman who reminded me of Halle Berry— like so beautiful she belonged on a magazine cover— cleared her throat. “Excuse me?” she said softly. Maybe it was low blood sugar but I had the toughest time focusing. She put a couple of candles on the counter but I didn’t recognize them. A soft scent of vanilla and cinnamon wafted through my sinuses. The tension in my shoulders dropped and I sighed happily.
“I’m Jasmine Levy,” she said, and then smiled. “I know you’re busy— if you show me where you want me to set up, I can do it myself. I don’t want to keep your customers waiting.”
I recommend reading.
A Case for the Candle Maker by Candace Havens is a 4 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Candace Havens.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
February 17, 2021
A Case for the Candle Maker is book four in the Ainsley McGregor cozy mystery series by Candace Havens. The Valentine's Day celebration is about to take place in Sweet River, plus Ainsley's helping Shannon prepare for her upcoming wedding, so to say Ainsley is a busy woman doesn't really do her justice. During a busy rush in Bless Your Art, Ainsley almost turns away a candle maker until her nose gets the scent of something divine. She, Jasmine, and Shannon become fast friends that day, but things crash and burn when, the next day, Jasmine is found dead in her room at the local B&B. Ainsley dons her sleuthing cap for another engaging, fast-paced, original cozy mystery.
The mystery was set up and executed well. The author did a wonderful job tossing in twists and turns, jaw-dropping moments, and I enjoyed trying to figure out who did it an why. I had no idea who the murderer was in A Case for the Candle Maker. The author included so many potential suspects and clear motives and/or opportunities, I had a really hard time trying narrow down my suspect list. Every time I was sure I knew who it was, the author tossed in something to change my mind. The uncertainty amplified the suspense and nail-biting action of certain scenes, decisions, and the ultimate showdown.
Ainsley is a wonderful character with business know-how and impeccable customer service skills. Her brother, Greg, is the local sheriff, and he tries to keep her from interfering with the case. He should know by now that's not happinging. Shannon is her best friend and partner-in-crime. Jake is a firefighter, friend of Greg's, and Ainsley's boyfriend. Together, the four of them along with Ainsley's friends, make up a great cast of characters. I really missed Ainsley's two students who've helped in the past. They weren't forgotten in the book but they didn't participate in this mystery.
This book was so much fun, enjoyable, and a fast read that keep me engaged. I loved the setting: an artisan market near Valentine's Day with wonderful characters, who are written realistically, and are completely relatable. The world building allowed me to visualize the scenes and I felt like I was there with the characters as they lead their normal, everyday lives. I really like the direction the author is taking Ainsley, as a business owner, small-town citizen, and in her love life. I couldn't put the book down.
The mystery was set up and executed well. The author did a wonderful job tossing in twists and turns, jaw-dropping moments, and I enjoyed trying to figure out who did it an why. I had no idea who the murderer was in A Case for the Candle Maker. The author included so many potential suspects and clear motives and/or opportunities, I had a really hard time trying narrow down my suspect list. Every time I was sure I knew who it was, the author tossed in something to change my mind. The uncertainty amplified the suspense and nail-biting action of certain scenes, decisions, and the ultimate showdown.
Ainsley is a wonderful character with business know-how and impeccable customer service skills. Her brother, Greg, is the local sheriff, and he tries to keep her from interfering with the case. He should know by now that's not happinging. Shannon is her best friend and partner-in-crime. Jake is a firefighter, friend of Greg's, and Ainsley's boyfriend. Together, the four of them along with Ainsley's friends, make up a great cast of characters. I really missed Ainsley's two students who've helped in the past. They weren't forgotten in the book but they didn't participate in this mystery.
This book was so much fun, enjoyable, and a fast read that keep me engaged. I loved the setting: an artisan market near Valentine's Day with wonderful characters, who are written realistically, and are completely relatable. The world building allowed me to visualize the scenes and I felt like I was there with the characters as they lead their normal, everyday lives. I really like the direction the author is taking Ainsley, as a business owner, small-town citizen, and in her love life. I couldn't put the book down.
April 27, 2025
A Case for the Candle Maker is another fun and cozy mystery from Candace Havens’ Ainsley McGregor series. This time, Ainsley, who owns an artisan market in the small town of Sweet River, Texas, gets pulled into another murder case when a local candle maker is accused of a crime she didn’t commit.
One thing I really enjoyed about this book was seeing Ainsley and Jake’s relationship grow. It was nice to read about how healthy and natural their relationship is developing, without any unnecessary drama. It made their connection feel genuine and easy to root for.
I also loved reading more about Ainsley’s friendships, especially with Shannon. Their conversations and funny moments together gave the story a lot of heart and made the town of Sweet River feel even more real and lively.
And of course, George Clooney the Great Dane was his hilarious self once again. Honestly, at this point, it’s almost a running joke—how does one dog keep finding so many dead bodies? He’s practically Sweet River’s unluckiest (and fluffiest) detective. Every scene with George Clooney had me smiling, and he brings so much warmth and humor to the story.
Overall, A Case for the Candle Maker is a cozy, heartwarming mystery that’s full of love, friendship, and a little bit of chaos (thanks, George). It’s a great pick if you enjoy small-town settings, amateur sleuthing, and stories that leave you feeling good
One thing I really enjoyed about this book was seeing Ainsley and Jake’s relationship grow. It was nice to read about how healthy and natural their relationship is developing, without any unnecessary drama. It made their connection feel genuine and easy to root for.
I also loved reading more about Ainsley’s friendships, especially with Shannon. Their conversations and funny moments together gave the story a lot of heart and made the town of Sweet River feel even more real and lively.
And of course, George Clooney the Great Dane was his hilarious self once again. Honestly, at this point, it’s almost a running joke—how does one dog keep finding so many dead bodies? He’s practically Sweet River’s unluckiest (and fluffiest) detective. Every scene with George Clooney had me smiling, and he brings so much warmth and humor to the story.
Overall, A Case for the Candle Maker is a cozy, heartwarming mystery that’s full of love, friendship, and a little bit of chaos (thanks, George). It’s a great pick if you enjoy small-town settings, amateur sleuthing, and stories that leave you feeling good
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2021
This has been a nice continuation of the Ainsley McGregor mysteries and a story that kept me wondering who the killer was and what their motive might be. With vast amounts of money and power in the mix there were certainly plenty of potential suspects.
I like the small town setting, which adds a personal spin to the story. There always seem to be plenty of characters willing to step in and help Ainsley work things out. She gets involved not because she’s either a police office or an investigator, but because she cares about her friends and wants to protect them. I would love to know that I had a friend like Ainsley if I needed one. In A Case For The Candlemaker, her mission is to clear her candle-making friend Jasmine of the murders of her sister and her father while protecting her from being murdered herself. With her friend Shannon, her Great Dane George Clooney and the loving support of her boyfriend Jake, she leads readers on an intriguing journey. The story is light, fun to read and entertaining while leaving us none the wiser about the murder until the end. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I like the small town setting, which adds a personal spin to the story. There always seem to be plenty of characters willing to step in and help Ainsley work things out. She gets involved not because she’s either a police office or an investigator, but because she cares about her friends and wants to protect them. I would love to know that I had a friend like Ainsley if I needed one. In A Case For The Candlemaker, her mission is to clear her candle-making friend Jasmine of the murders of her sister and her father while protecting her from being murdered herself. With her friend Shannon, her Great Dane George Clooney and the loving support of her boyfriend Jake, she leads readers on an intriguing journey. The story is light, fun to read and entertaining while leaving us none the wiser about the murder until the end. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
February 6, 2021
Just in time for Valentines comes book four of the delightful Ainsley McGregor Series by Candace Havens. A Case for the Candle Maker has Ainsley preparing a Sweet River Celebration and also a friend’s wedding. Wouldn’t you know it a strange death is discovered. Who knew arts and crafts could be so dangerous? In this case it is an entire family involved too.
With George Clooney, her Great Dane by her side, Ainsley slips from her entrepreneur role into amateur sleuth role without missing a beat. Easy to read series with likable characters. Ainsley and her dog, George Clooney are in the thick of things. However, and Ainsley’s brother, Greg , the sheriff and best friend, Shannon, detective friend, Lucy and Jake the boyfriend firefighter round out most of the supporting characters. Family can be messy and even dangerous but they can slo be forgiving and supportive too as A Case for the Candle Maker proves.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
With George Clooney, her Great Dane by her side, Ainsley slips from her entrepreneur role into amateur sleuth role without missing a beat. Easy to read series with likable characters. Ainsley and her dog, George Clooney are in the thick of things. However, and Ainsley’s brother, Greg , the sheriff and best friend, Shannon, detective friend, Lucy and Jake the boyfriend firefighter round out most of the supporting characters. Family can be messy and even dangerous but they can slo be forgiving and supportive too as A Case for the Candle Maker proves.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 10, 2021
A Case for the Candle Maker by Candace Havens book four in her Ainsley McGregor is my favorite so far in her series. Yes, this is a series and no you do not have to read them all to enjoy them. But boy is this series based in Sweet River, Texas around a group of friends who live there and a craft marketplace called "Bless Your Art". Ainsley is the owner of the marketplace but rents out space to others and that is a big part of this book. Jasmine Levy brings in her handmade candles and asks to sell them in the shop. Folks flock to them right then and there. This book grabs me because I am a crafter so I love it for that reason. Then Ainsley, Shannon and Jasmine quickly became close friends. I understand that as well. Soon as I felt the tight bond a mystery was ace given us by our author Candace Havens and it was so much fun trying to figure out "who done it" as the book when along. One thing I love about this author is we get to catch up with all the quirky fun characters in this friendly Texas town in every book. I am so looking forward to the next book in this series.
February 9, 2021
Once again we are with Ainsley McGregor as she is drawn into murder and mayhem in the small town of Sweet River You would think she would be to busy to get involved in another murder with her side kick George Clooney but that isn't the case She is trying to organise the town Valentine Day celebrations and run her art gallery/store when a woman arrives wanting to sell her candles Ainsley is about to say no until she smells one when it is lit A huge success the candles soon sell out and Ainsley needs more unable to contact the woman she heads to the B&B where she is staying and finds her dead behind a locked door. Her brother the sheriff may be on the case but once again Ainsley is at the forefront of the investigation can she solve it or has she brought a murderer to her own door You will have to read to see
August 3, 2024
This was a fun read! I loved the relationship between Ainsley and her brother Greg. Their relationship expanded to their extended family - friends that became family. The why Greg's best friends look after Ainsley (Jake & Kane) is relatable. Her relationship to Shannon and Michael shows the importance to have quality people in your life.
The story is well written and flows extremely well. Candance Havens does a great job building her characters in this first book along with their relationship to each other. I love that is was set in a small town and how the values, friendships, etc. of a small community are described by Haven.
Candance has a mystery within a mystery and your keep your curiosity and intrigue throughout the book.
I strongly suggest this book if you are looking for a fun read and like mysteries.
The story is well written and flows extremely well. Candance Havens does a great job building her characters in this first book along with their relationship to each other. I love that is was set in a small town and how the values, friendships, etc. of a small community are described by Haven.
Candance has a mystery within a mystery and your keep your curiosity and intrigue throughout the book.
I strongly suggest this book if you are looking for a fun read and like mysteries.
January 29, 2021
A small town cozy mystery.
Ainsley McGregor is busy preparing for Sweet River’s Valentine’s Day festival along with her best friend’s wedding, when a new candle maker, Jasmine, shows up at Bless Your Art, wanting to sell her candles. They quickly become friends and the next thing they know, Jasmine’s sister ends up dead. But that’s not all, Jasmine’s father is also dead. Ainsley puts on her sleuthing hat and heads out to solve the mystery.
I have enjoyed all of the Sweet River stories and this one was just as good. I enjoyed catching up with the characters along with trying to figure out who the new killer was. This book also has another mystery in it too that was like a bonus. As always Ainsley’s Great Dane, George Clooney is a fun addition to the story.
Ainsley McGregor is busy preparing for Sweet River’s Valentine’s Day festival along with her best friend’s wedding, when a new candle maker, Jasmine, shows up at Bless Your Art, wanting to sell her candles. They quickly become friends and the next thing they know, Jasmine’s sister ends up dead. But that’s not all, Jasmine’s father is also dead. Ainsley puts on her sleuthing hat and heads out to solve the mystery.
I have enjoyed all of the Sweet River stories and this one was just as good. I enjoyed catching up with the characters along with trying to figure out who the new killer was. This book also has another mystery in it too that was like a bonus. As always Ainsley’s Great Dane, George Clooney is a fun addition to the story.
February 12, 2021
This is book 4 in the Ainsley McGregor series and it's a good cozy. You can read this book without reading the previous books but they are all good stories. Ainsley's shop, Bless Your Art is preparing for Valentine's Day and when a stranger stops by with candles for sale, Ainsley can't keep them on the shelf they are so popular. Jasmine becomes friends with Ainsley and needs her help when her sister is found dead. I enjoy this series. The characters are all down to earth and believable and the plots are not bloody or bizarre. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 14, 2024
A Case for the Candle Maker
Ainsley was working hard to help her best friend get ready for her wedding and teaching classes at a near by college and running her wonderful craft shop. A customer came in with a bunch of great smelling candles for every occasion and they took an instant liking to each other. Over the next few days the newcomers sister is murdered. That's when an unbelievable story begins. Once you start reading you won't be able to put it down. You are going to really love George Cooney!?
Ainsley was working hard to help her best friend get ready for her wedding and teaching classes at a near by college and running her wonderful craft shop. A customer came in with a bunch of great smelling candles for every occasion and they took an instant liking to each other. Over the next few days the newcomers sister is murdered. That's when an unbelievable story begins. Once you start reading you won't be able to put it down. You are going to really love George Cooney!?
June 15, 2021
Somehow i missed writing this review. I really loved reading this story and knowing there are others i can wait to read them as well. I have fond memories of Nancy Drew and Sherlock Holmes filling my teenage years with stories i was eager to help solve. This book brought back that feeling. A story that will leave you trying to guess right up to the last chapter who done it!
Opps i made mistake i read another in this series. Guess i need to read this one too.
Opps i made mistake i read another in this series. Guess i need to read this one too.
March 30, 2024
This was a very good, well written story and far, far better than I was expecting it to be! The characters worm their way into the readers' hearts quickly and are outstanding role models for both men and women. The plot was straight forward and easily followed and the premise was finding out who killed their new friend's sister and why. There are plenty of twists and turns in a well written great cozy and a few red herrings as well. I most definitely recommend this book!
April 23, 2024
Ainsley investigates
Great characters and great relationships between the characters. Although Ainsley is the lead character, Shannon, Greg, Jake, Kane, and the others are equally unforgettable. Enjoyable and engaging dialogue between characters. Nice, clean interactions between people who are in love with each other. How can I forget George?
Good storyline, enjoyable, page turning reading.
Great characters and great relationships between the characters. Although Ainsley is the lead character, Shannon, Greg, Jake, Kane, and the others are equally unforgettable. Enjoyable and engaging dialogue between characters. Nice, clean interactions between people who are in love with each other. How can I forget George?
Good storyline, enjoyable, page turning reading.
October 30, 2024
This is a great series and I loved this book. Ainsley really does need to become a newly minted detective. She's great at this. It was a shock though that a simple candle maker became very, very rich and was the CEO of her Dad's company. I like how her friends came together to solve the mystery in the book. Her friends, brother and Jake. They all work together as a great team. I've read the entire series and love them all.
May 19, 2025
When an author uses the same tools to make the plot work out, she should maybe go on vacation and think up something new. These items have been the same in all 4 books in the series thus far:
1. Becomes "best friends" with a key character too quickly to make sense.
2. Lives in the country and the murderer is always in the woods behind her house.
3. Heroine is always injured and 'nearly killed' by the culprit.
At this point, I am finishing the series just to keep up with George the dog.
1. Becomes "best friends" with a key character too quickly to make sense.
2. Lives in the country and the murderer is always in the woods behind her house.
3. Heroine is always injured and 'nearly killed' by the culprit.
At this point, I am finishing the series just to keep up with George the dog.
December 3, 2025
Haha, I was feeling a bit of voodoo what with the candle recipe, love candles and so on that somehow Jasmin got her grandma's recipe from the old country and wasn't aware of the problems they would cause.
But as the story progress on, it was none of that...it was due to the characters were poisoned slowly and showing confusion.
I really like Ainsley and Jake and the whole town of hot Single men.
But as the story progress on, it was none of that...it was due to the characters were poisoned slowly and showing confusion.
I really like Ainsley and Jake and the whole town of hot Single men.
April 3, 2024
Interesting murder mystery, I enjoyed getting the know the characters. Ainsley isn't a bad sleuth, although I thought it was crazy of her to run out in the street looking for the killer. The killer is driving a car and Ainsley stands in the middle of the street which seemed to me to be a pretty dumb move. Which it turned out to be as she would have been run over if not for a friend pushing her out of the street. Good ending.
April 7, 2024
Recommend
I wanted to avoid doing my taxes so I picked up this story “just for an hour.” I didn’t put it down until I finished it. Very good. A sinister list of suspects and yet they seem to be innocent individually up to the end. Then the twist! Not a spoiler. Good mystery. With a breath of relief and an “awww, I see it now!” at the end.
I recommend this one.
I wanted to avoid doing my taxes so I picked up this story “just for an hour.” I didn’t put it down until I finished it. Very good. A sinister list of suspects and yet they seem to be innocent individually up to the end. Then the twist! Not a spoiler. Good mystery. With a breath of relief and an “awww, I see it now!” at the end.
I recommend this one.
October 17, 2024
Danger and a Stalker
Danger seems to be all around as two friends try to finish getting Shannon's wedding plans ready and helping their new friend, who has a tragic twist in her life. As they look for answers, they encounter danger and twists that leave you on the edge of your seat!
Fun read!
Danger seems to be all around as two friends try to finish getting Shannon's wedding plans ready and helping their new friend, who has a tragic twist in her life. As they look for answers, they encounter danger and twists that leave you on the edge of your seat!
Fun read!
September 16, 2025
4.5 stars
Great characters, lovely setting, an interesting mystery with good twists. Kinsley is relatable and I like her romantic interest. I really like her friends, too! This read is my first in this series, but it didn't take long to get into the story. Candace Havens is an excellent writer!
Great characters, lovely setting, an interesting mystery with good twists. Kinsley is relatable and I like her romantic interest. I really like her friends, too! This read is my first in this series, but it didn't take long to get into the story. Candace Havens is an excellent writer!
April 1, 2024
an okay read
This story is a clean read. While there was drama, it was a very goody two shoes town and people, over the top wonderful, almost sickly. It just didn’t go with a couple of murders . Kind of like two different tropes trying to be one story. Doesn’t quite work.
This story is a clean read. While there was drama, it was a very goody two shoes town and people, over the top wonderful, almost sickly. It just didn’t go with a couple of murders . Kind of like two different tropes trying to be one story. Doesn’t quite work.
April 3, 2024
A Case for the Candle Maker, Book 4
I really enjoyed reading this book and I wish they were my friends and the town sounds lovely to live in and George is adorable as usual can't wait to read her other books.
I really enjoyed reading this book and I wish they were my friends and the town sounds lovely to live in and George is adorable as usual can't wait to read her other books.
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