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Whispering Pines Mystery #5
Rival Secrets
What if your nemesis challenged you on your home turf?
The sense of community. The quaint surroundings. The deadly rivalries. Welcome to Whispering Pines.
As the weather turns crisp, Jayne O’Shea and the other villagers prepare for the last big tourist draw of the season: the autumn equinox festival. It’s a time to enjoy a bounty of food, the company of others, and the ever-popular cooking competition. But events in the baking division turn from friendly to fatal and one of the contestants, a beloved nationally known chef, is found face down in the woods.
All eyes turn to one of the villagers as the killer, but Jayne knows that what’s seen on the surface isn’t always the truth, especially in Whispering Pines, and digs deep to clear the name of one of their own.
The sense of community. The quaint surroundings. The deadly rivalries. Welcome to Whispering Pines.
As the weather turns crisp, Jayne O’Shea and the other villagers prepare for the last big tourist draw of the season: the autumn equinox festival. It’s a time to enjoy a bounty of food, the company of others, and the ever-popular cooking competition. But events in the baking division turn from friendly to fatal and one of the contestants, a beloved nationally known chef, is found face down in the woods.
All eyes turn to one of the villagers as the killer, but Jayne knows that what’s seen on the surface isn’t always the truth, especially in Whispering Pines, and digs deep to clear the name of one of their own.
281 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2018
875 people are currently reading
307 people want to read
About the author
Shawn McGuire
79 books820 followersMystery and fantasy author Shawn McGuire loves creating characters and places her fans want to return to again and again. She started writing after seeing the first Star Wars movie (that's episode IV) as a kid. She couldn't wait for the next installment to come out so wrote her own. Sadly, those notebooks are long lost, but her desire to tell a tale is as strong now as it was then. She lives in Wisconsin near the beautiful Mississippi River and when not writing or reading, she might be baking, crafting, going for a long walk, or nibbling really dark chocolate. You can learn more about her work on her website www.Shawn-McGuire.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
September 24, 2018
Welcome back to Whispering Pines, Wisconsin .... a small Wiccan community for those that don't belong elsewhere. Rules by descendants of the first residents, they alone decide who can stay and who must go. It helps if you're Wiccan, but not necessary. For those who aren't, your ancestors must have been.
That's where Sheriff Jayne O'Shea fits in. Her grandmother was part and parcel of the original settlers and when she died, she left everything to Jayne. She and her business partner, Tripp, have opened a bed-and-breakfast inn.
The village is preparing for the end of summer celebration. Tourists come from all over the country. . It’s a time to enjoy a bounty of food, the company of others, and the ever-popular cooking competition. Events in the baking division, however, turn from friendly to fatal when one of the contestants, a beloved nationally known chef, is found dead in the woods.
Jayne has a prime suspect .. one of the beloved residents of Whispering Pine. Her suspect and the victim have a long history of competition.
Hard to believe that this small town has a history of murders. Some have said Jayne brought bad luck with her. Jayne is tenacious and she has plenty of other suspects to look at, to question. The victim traveled with a crew of chefs, her business partner, even a dishwasher. It seems like they all know something they aren't sharing with Jayne.
This is the 5th book in the Whispering Pine series. The residents are quirky, friendly, some nicer than others, but all are memorable. It's been fun watching Jayne and Tripp move closer to each other. I've enjoyed how they related to each other with love and humor. I've loved how this small town has welcomed newcomers into the fold.
Many thanks to the author for the digital copy of this well written series. I highly recommend starting at the beginning .. it's well worth reading. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
4 stars for RIVAL SECRETS, 5 star for the SERIES
That's where Sheriff Jayne O'Shea fits in. Her grandmother was part and parcel of the original settlers and when she died, she left everything to Jayne. She and her business partner, Tripp, have opened a bed-and-breakfast inn.
The village is preparing for the end of summer celebration. Tourists come from all over the country. . It’s a time to enjoy a bounty of food, the company of others, and the ever-popular cooking competition. Events in the baking division, however, turn from friendly to fatal when one of the contestants, a beloved nationally known chef, is found dead in the woods.
Jayne has a prime suspect .. one of the beloved residents of Whispering Pine. Her suspect and the victim have a long history of competition.
Hard to believe that this small town has a history of murders. Some have said Jayne brought bad luck with her. Jayne is tenacious and she has plenty of other suspects to look at, to question. The victim traveled with a crew of chefs, her business partner, even a dishwasher. It seems like they all know something they aren't sharing with Jayne.
This is the 5th book in the Whispering Pine series. The residents are quirky, friendly, some nicer than others, but all are memorable. It's been fun watching Jayne and Tripp move closer to each other. I've enjoyed how they related to each other with love and humor. I've loved how this small town has welcomed newcomers into the fold.
Many thanks to the author for the digital copy of this well written series. I highly recommend starting at the beginning .. it's well worth reading. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
4 stars for RIVAL SECRETS, 5 star for the SERIES
March 31, 2021
These books, they are starting to feel like coming home!
The town, the characters, the love, the mystery oh yea, and the murder... so cute, fun.. and enjoyable!
The town, the characters, the love, the mystery oh yea, and the murder... so cute, fun.. and enjoyable!
December 3, 2024
Took my time with this one because I cherish this series so much :) I’m so happy there’s more books to read!!
October 1, 2018
Welcome back once again to Whispering Pines!
This fifth installment in the series is every bit as enchanting as it’s predecessors. Shawn McGuire spins a twisting tale of jealousy, envy and murder, that will have you hooked from the first page to the last.
If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries with a touch of a paranormal flair , I definitely say give this series a read!
I voluntarily reviewed this book.
This fifth installment in the series is every bit as enchanting as it’s predecessors. Shawn McGuire spins a twisting tale of jealousy, envy and murder, that will have you hooked from the first page to the last.
If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries with a touch of a paranormal flair , I definitely say give this series a read!
I voluntarily reviewed this book.
June 14, 2019
Jayne OShea and Jack Bennett are stuck right in the middle of the witches cooking contest.
The food and the mood are perfect for a great contest with just one problem. Sugar and her celebrity friend from 20 years ago have a problem that has festered and blackened their hearts.
Every Wiccan knows to never hurt anyone, but can these two women put aside their pasts?
This is a series that can be read together or as stand alones. I encourage you to read the series though!
The food and the mood are perfect for a great contest with just one problem. Sugar and her celebrity friend from 20 years ago have a problem that has festered and blackened their hearts.
Every Wiccan knows to never hurt anyone, but can these two women put aside their pasts?
This is a series that can be read together or as stand alones. I encourage you to read the series though!
September 27, 2018
Another great installment! Shawn McGuire continues to deliver with edge of your seat pacing. The village of Whispering Pines feels like home—you might not visit it if you like living! 😉 I love the characters and all their quirks. I can’t wait to read the next book!
September 17, 2018
Rival Secrets does not disappoint! I love how Jayne is still meeting people in the village. I guessed at who the killers were but liked how it all linked together. I can't wait for the next book to see what's going on with Morgan and of course Jayne and Tripp!
July 26, 2024
Can't stop reading this series Can't put each book down .. reading non stop
September 12, 2018
The Whispering Pines series always keeps my interest and this book was no exception. The people who stay at the main characters’ B&B are always intriguing and some are even mysterious. In addition to running the B&B with her significant other, Tripp, Jayne is also the Sheriff and watching her solve crimes is always entertaining. Observing the relationship between Jayne and Tripp move along at a realistic pace is also a plus with me. I have read and enjoyed every book Ms. McGuire has written about Whispering Pines. I did receive an ARC and freely give this review.
July 1, 2023
Whispering Pines, a unique village for unique people, plus a murder mystery and in this book of the series a cooking and baking competition—yummy.
September 3, 2018
Really enjoyed this book. It is a wonderful addition to the series. The story as always includes a mystery which is enjoyable to figure out with the main character. I appreciate that the author is not rushing the relationship between the main character her boyfriend. It makes the relationships in the book seem more realistic.
September 19, 2018
Rival Secrets #5 - Another substantial and interesting read. Rival picks up a month after Hidden Secrets (#4) ends. The well thought out story lines keep the reader immersed until the last page. Every book in this series has been great and this one is no different. The regular characters keep showing more of their secrets and growth, and the reader pulls for them. Their dialog is interesting without any stupidity, just realistic and clean.
There's touches of sexual tension and hints of mysteries to come. The murder was well handled and while there were plenty of suspects, the path to solving the crime was interesting. As usual, there were kinks along the path, but that's what keeps the reader involved with the story. This is a must read series, which should be read in order to find out all the secrets and learn the village and its folk. I contacted the author to review her books. 5*
Family Secrets, Whispering Pines #1 - An intriguing story. After finishing Stick and Stones, I dove into Family Secrets, my second book by this new-to-me author. These two books are nothing alike on storylines, except fantasy. I was drawn into this well written novel with an interesting plot and realistic characters, including the lovable dog. I couldn't put Family Secrets down until it was finished. There's an overview letting the reader know what the book is about, which I appreciate. This author is definitely someone whose work I want to keep reading. Two books, two winners! 5*
Kept Secrets, Whispering Pines #2 - Another intriguing story by a very good author. Now we're being to know our main characters as they grow in this book, while remaining believable and realistic. The well written, fast paced plot keeps the reader interested, making it hard to put the book down. The author’s descriptions leave the reader with clear pictures about the town, townspeople and property. I contacted the author to review her books since she writes such substantial stories that leaves a reader satisfied. 5*
Original Secrets, Whispering Pines #3 – This is the best of the series. So intriguing that the reader can’t put the book down. A well written, suspense filled book with two deaths forty years apart that may be connected. The characters are steadily growing, even the hated ones are interesting. Their dialog is realistic and non of The Stupid Formula for these characters. Her descriptions are clear and you’re there in Whispering Pines. I’m looking forward to the next book. I contacted the author to review her books; her stories are substantial and the reader is satisfied when finished reading one of her books. 5*
Hidden Secrets, Whispering Pines #4 - Another hard to put down story. Well written, suspense filled and full of intrigue, still with an interesting group of characters with new ones added to boot. This substantial story has several stories going at once, including the past and the future and the worries that stem from them. I've never been disappointed by any book written by Ms. McGuire and I look forward to more of her work. I contacted the author to review her books. 5*
There's touches of sexual tension and hints of mysteries to come. The murder was well handled and while there were plenty of suspects, the path to solving the crime was interesting. As usual, there were kinks along the path, but that's what keeps the reader involved with the story. This is a must read series, which should be read in order to find out all the secrets and learn the village and its folk. I contacted the author to review her books. 5*
Family Secrets, Whispering Pines #1 - An intriguing story. After finishing Stick and Stones, I dove into Family Secrets, my second book by this new-to-me author. These two books are nothing alike on storylines, except fantasy. I was drawn into this well written novel with an interesting plot and realistic characters, including the lovable dog. I couldn't put Family Secrets down until it was finished. There's an overview letting the reader know what the book is about, which I appreciate. This author is definitely someone whose work I want to keep reading. Two books, two winners! 5*
Kept Secrets, Whispering Pines #2 - Another intriguing story by a very good author. Now we're being to know our main characters as they grow in this book, while remaining believable and realistic. The well written, fast paced plot keeps the reader interested, making it hard to put the book down. The author’s descriptions leave the reader with clear pictures about the town, townspeople and property. I contacted the author to review her books since she writes such substantial stories that leaves a reader satisfied. 5*
Original Secrets, Whispering Pines #3 – This is the best of the series. So intriguing that the reader can’t put the book down. A well written, suspense filled book with two deaths forty years apart that may be connected. The characters are steadily growing, even the hated ones are interesting. Their dialog is realistic and non of The Stupid Formula for these characters. Her descriptions are clear and you’re there in Whispering Pines. I’m looking forward to the next book. I contacted the author to review her books; her stories are substantial and the reader is satisfied when finished reading one of her books. 5*
Hidden Secrets, Whispering Pines #4 - Another hard to put down story. Well written, suspense filled and full of intrigue, still with an interesting group of characters with new ones added to boot. This substantial story has several stories going at once, including the past and the future and the worries that stem from them. I've never been disappointed by any book written by Ms. McGuire and I look forward to more of her work. I contacted the author to review her books. 5*
September 24, 2018
*I received a free ARC of this book with thanks to the author. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
Ok, so last time round I said Hidden Secrets was my favourite Whispering Pines book so far, and now I need to revise that opinion as I enjoyed Rival Secrets even more!
The series style is a cross between cosy mystery and police procedural, as Jayne is a professional investigator but the community setup and paranormal aspects (fortune tellers and witches of various designations) are classic cosy all the way.
Whilst this plot could perhaps stand alone more than some of the previous, as it had fewer links to the history of the local community than earlier instalments, I would still definitely recommend reading the series in order as there is far less scene and character setting by this fifth book and therefore you would miss out on the finer nuances of ‘Pine Time’ and Jayne’s place in events.
Jayne’s character develops further with every book and I confess to preferring the more settled and confident Jayne that we are seeing in more recent books. I feel the security in her personal and professional life gives her a firm base for investigation, as her history and position in the wider community is more shaky and provides ongoing underlying tension.
What I particularly liked about Rival Secrets is the mixture of local and ‘outsider’ in both the suspect pool and murder motives, which I felt was well-balanced and crafted as skilfully as a towering croquembouch (a kind of tower of sweet pastry balls). Clearly a lot of research also went into many of the areas of expertise explored over the course of the plot, which I found mouth-watering and fascinating by turns.
In summary, another great cosy mystery from one of the most interesting settings and character cast around. I’m already waiting in eager anticipation for the next in the series, with my eye on a certain garden witch, as I may have a little premonition of my own…!
That was one complication out of the way. There was one big question before me now. Had a friendly baking competition really ended in murder? A possible killer came to mind immediately. It couldn’t be her, though. Sugar wasn’t a killer. Was she?
– Shawn McGuire, Rival Secrets
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
Ok, so last time round I said Hidden Secrets was my favourite Whispering Pines book so far, and now I need to revise that opinion as I enjoyed Rival Secrets even more!
The series style is a cross between cosy mystery and police procedural, as Jayne is a professional investigator but the community setup and paranormal aspects (fortune tellers and witches of various designations) are classic cosy all the way.
Whilst this plot could perhaps stand alone more than some of the previous, as it had fewer links to the history of the local community than earlier instalments, I would still definitely recommend reading the series in order as there is far less scene and character setting by this fifth book and therefore you would miss out on the finer nuances of ‘Pine Time’ and Jayne’s place in events.
Jayne’s character develops further with every book and I confess to preferring the more settled and confident Jayne that we are seeing in more recent books. I feel the security in her personal and professional life gives her a firm base for investigation, as her history and position in the wider community is more shaky and provides ongoing underlying tension.
What I particularly liked about Rival Secrets is the mixture of local and ‘outsider’ in both the suspect pool and murder motives, which I felt was well-balanced and crafted as skilfully as a towering croquembouch (a kind of tower of sweet pastry balls). Clearly a lot of research also went into many of the areas of expertise explored over the course of the plot, which I found mouth-watering and fascinating by turns.
In summary, another great cosy mystery from one of the most interesting settings and character cast around. I’m already waiting in eager anticipation for the next in the series, with my eye on a certain garden witch, as I may have a little premonition of my own…!
That was one complication out of the way. There was one big question before me now. Had a friendly baking competition really ended in murder? A possible killer came to mind immediately. It couldn’t be her, though. Sugar wasn’t a killer. Was she?
– Shawn McGuire, Rival Secrets
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
October 3, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. This is the first book by this author that I have listened/read but it won't be the last as I enjoyed it and will be looking into getting the previous books to see what I have been missing. Even though it is billed as a witch mystery there was no spell casting or magic, the villagers used herbs, crystals and Palm reading which for some means they are odd balls. I happened to like there eccentricities and found them fun. The mystery was good and the story had plenty of suspect's with motives to keep you guessing.
Whispering Pines is hosting the autumn equinoxes festival and this mean they have a annual cooking competition but this year it is going to turn deadly for one of the contestants. Old grudges and secrets come back up to the surface when a celebrity chief and her team storm into town and take over. Jayne first off has to decide if it was an accident or murder and with all.the reporters coming to town she doesn't have long to decide before things turn really bad. With the victim being an old resident who has made good there is not shortage of suspects.
I really liked the narrator and thought she brought he characters to life really well, as well.as having to do a number of accents.
Whispering Pines is hosting the autumn equinoxes festival and this mean they have a annual cooking competition but this year it is going to turn deadly for one of the contestants. Old grudges and secrets come back up to the surface when a celebrity chief and her team storm into town and take over. Jayne first off has to decide if it was an accident or murder and with all.the reporters coming to town she doesn't have long to decide before things turn really bad. With the victim being an old resident who has made good there is not shortage of suspects.
I really liked the narrator and thought she brought he characters to life really well, as well.as having to do a number of accents.
December 20, 2019
It's time for the Autumn Equinox Festival in Whispering Pines. It's the last big tourist attraction of the year. Time to have fun and enjoy friends, weather and the cooking and baking contest. Gin Wakefield grew up in the village and is now a famous pastry chef. She is coming back to take part in the contest. She and Sugar were rivals in their younger years. What will happen when these two compete in the contest? Gin is found dead in the woods. What happened? Was it a natural death? Was it murder?
Jayne has become more sure of herself in her duties as Sheriff. And her deputy has really improved a lot. Jayne and Tripp work well together running the B & B and are still taking their relationship slow which is very wise.
There is suspense, mystery and twists that will keep you turning the pages. A well thought out plot and a very well written story. You won't want to put this book down.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the author and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
Jayne has become more sure of herself in her duties as Sheriff. And her deputy has really improved a lot. Jayne and Tripp work well together running the B & B and are still taking their relationship slow which is very wise.
There is suspense, mystery and twists that will keep you turning the pages. A well thought out plot and a very well written story. You won't want to put this book down.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the author and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
May 5, 2022
Another twisty and intriguing mystery
In this fifth book in the series we can feel the tension growing in the village. That underlying darkness that has been building from the beginning is becoming more prominent as bad things continue to happen in the village.
In this book a former villager who has been gone for 20 years returns to take part in the annual Mabon festival baking contest. Not only is she a professional baker with an empire she has a grudge match with one of the owners of the village’s sweet shop. When she ends up dead there are many suspects.
The mystery builds well and there are some very well done red herrings. There’s not as much of the woo-woo as in previous books though there are many references to kitchen witches. As the clues all begin to coalesce for Jayne there are a few tidbits dropped that hint towards things to come in the next books.
The mystery is solved, Jayne and Tripp take a new step in their relationship and we have hints of what’s to come. A very clever and satisfying way to work a mystery series.
In this fifth book in the series we can feel the tension growing in the village. That underlying darkness that has been building from the beginning is becoming more prominent as bad things continue to happen in the village.
In this book a former villager who has been gone for 20 years returns to take part in the annual Mabon festival baking contest. Not only is she a professional baker with an empire she has a grudge match with one of the owners of the village’s sweet shop. When she ends up dead there are many suspects.
The mystery builds well and there are some very well done red herrings. There’s not as much of the woo-woo as in previous books though there are many references to kitchen witches. As the clues all begin to coalesce for Jayne there are a few tidbits dropped that hint towards things to come in the next books.
The mystery is solved, Jayne and Tripp take a new step in their relationship and we have hints of what’s to come. A very clever and satisfying way to work a mystery series.
November 5, 2025
4 Stars
Rival Secrets is the fifth book in the Whispering Pines Mystery Series by Shawn McGuire. This is a perfect blend of cozy mystery, small-town charm, and just the right sprinkle of supernatural elements.
following Jane O’Shea who has a knack for solving mysteries that seem to find her no matter how much she tries to avoid them. The town itself is a character in its own right – a little quirky, idyllic, and full of secrets. The locals are a fun mix of personalities, from the nosy neighbours to more endearing eccentrics - and their interactions gives the series an extra element of interest along with some ‘warm-fuzzies’.
Ms. McGuire manages to balance lighthearted coziness with genuinely intriguing mysteries. Each book has its own unique twist, and while the stakes aren’t overly high/intense, they’re enough to keep you flipping pages late into the night. Plus, the touch of the paranormal adds an extra layer of fun without overwhelming the story.
Recommend for a binge-worthy read.
Happy Reading…
Rival Secrets is the fifth book in the Whispering Pines Mystery Series by Shawn McGuire. This is a perfect blend of cozy mystery, small-town charm, and just the right sprinkle of supernatural elements.
following Jane O’Shea who has a knack for solving mysteries that seem to find her no matter how much she tries to avoid them. The town itself is a character in its own right – a little quirky, idyllic, and full of secrets. The locals are a fun mix of personalities, from the nosy neighbours to more endearing eccentrics - and their interactions gives the series an extra element of interest along with some ‘warm-fuzzies’.
Ms. McGuire manages to balance lighthearted coziness with genuinely intriguing mysteries. Each book has its own unique twist, and while the stakes aren’t overly high/intense, they’re enough to keep you flipping pages late into the night. Plus, the touch of the paranormal adds an extra layer of fun without overwhelming the story.
Recommend for a binge-worthy read.
Happy Reading…
September 21, 2018
More secrets revealed! Another smash hit by Shawn! I can't say enough good things about this series of books. I want to go to the village and vacation there every fall. It sounds so pretty and peaceful, well except for the murders that keep popping up. I hope there's not a murder for those folks in the village this winter LOL. Morgan is such a beauty and she has found her inner Zen, she has such a relaxing effect on Jayne and she needs that in her crazy sheriff life. This book did make me hungry though, all those yummy foods in the competition made me want to bake and eat all at the same time. We got to know some more of the characters at the Inn as well. It's great how they are all so close like family. I can't wait to read more in the upcoming books, don't stop writing, Shawn! I would be lost without my village escape!
**I was gifted this book and I couldn't wait to tell you how much you need to read it.**
**I was gifted this book and I couldn't wait to tell you how much you need to read it.**
August 20, 2020
It's Mabon, and time for the Whispering Pines kitchen witches to show off their crafts at the annual festival. However, a once resident, Ginger Wakefield, is competing in the baking contest; and there is a bitter rivalry between her and Sugar, owner of Treat Me Sweetly. So no surprise that there's a death, and Jayne is beginning to wonder if she's brought bad luck to Whispering Pines.
The investigation seems to lean towards "death by misadventure" aka natural death due to an accident, but Jayne is sniffing towards possible murder. Doesn't help that there are more people angry with Ginger than just Sugar.
One complaint....there are no recipes at the end of each of these novels, and all the food items sound so good! Anyway, all you kitchen witches out there will be enjoying this novel.
The investigation seems to lean towards "death by misadventure" aka natural death due to an accident, but Jayne is sniffing towards possible murder. Doesn't help that there are more people angry with Ginger than just Sugar.
One complaint....there are no recipes at the end of each of these novels, and all the food items sound so good! Anyway, all you kitchen witches out there will be enjoying this novel.
September 19, 2018
There is always a murderer out there, especially in Whispering Pines...
The town is getting ready for winter, when there will be no tourists and very few visitors. To celebrate harvest season, a huge baking contest is held, and things go very wrong when a celebrity is found dead on the fairy path. But is it murder?
Always enjoyable, flowing writing from Shawn McGuire, and no different this time. I love the characters in Whispering Pines. I find the delicious Morgan very intriguing and can't wait to read what she has up her elegant sleeve...
As for Sheriff Jayne, this is one place where she is always busy.
An unusually delightful series, where the weird and surprising characters are weaved into a little bit of Wicca.
The town is getting ready for winter, when there will be no tourists and very few visitors. To celebrate harvest season, a huge baking contest is held, and things go very wrong when a celebrity is found dead on the fairy path. But is it murder?
Always enjoyable, flowing writing from Shawn McGuire, and no different this time. I love the characters in Whispering Pines. I find the delicious Morgan very intriguing and can't wait to read what she has up her elegant sleeve...
As for Sheriff Jayne, this is one place where she is always busy.
An unusually delightful series, where the weird and surprising characters are weaved into a little bit of Wicca.
January 19, 2020
This was such an emotional read and I don't mean that in a bad way!! When people you like are suddenly suspects and old wounds are opened, you can't help but feel for and with them. At least that is what happened to me. I was "oh no"ing the whole time and while I knew it wasn't as it seemed, I also wasn't SURE about that! There was this niggling doubt that kept me from relaxing the whole time. Fantastic read! Jayne is peeling back layer after layer of secrets, which the villagers often don't appreciate, but in the end an old wound needs to be reopened so it can heal properly. I believe Jayne does that for the village and herself and while that isn't popular or easy, she is doing a great job. On to the next one!!! I can't wait!
February 27, 2020
Back to Whispering Pines
I really enjoy this series. To bad there isn't an actual village like Whispering Pines. I would go there. The sad part is it seems a body or 2 keeps turning up. Sherriff Jayne, however is always up to the task in getting her man or woman, or both. Her faithful K-9 deputy always at her side. She is always ready to help her mistress even if she is a little small. For those of you who are turned off by the "Wiccan" Try and remember this book is "fantasy". It also has fortune tellers, circus people & fairies. As the main character Jayne, she doesn't believe in witch craft, what she calls there "Woo woo, magic" either. But she respects everyone.
I really enjoy this series. To bad there isn't an actual village like Whispering Pines. I would go there. The sad part is it seems a body or 2 keeps turning up. Sherriff Jayne, however is always up to the task in getting her man or woman, or both. Her faithful K-9 deputy always at her side. She is always ready to help her mistress even if she is a little small. For those of you who are turned off by the "Wiccan" Try and remember this book is "fantasy". It also has fortune tellers, circus people & fairies. As the main character Jayne, she doesn't believe in witch craft, what she calls there "Woo woo, magic" either. But she respects everyone.
September 22, 2018
Every book in this series just keeps getting better! The characters all have a personality quirk, some good and some bad but always interesting.
It’s the Autumnal Equinox and everyone in Whispering Pines is getting ready for a busy week of activities and food. There is even a contest showcasing culinary skills and a famous pastry chef who lived in the village will be there. Unfortunately her being there revives an old feud. When she’s found dead it’s up to Jayne to figure out who the killer is.
It’s the Autumnal Equinox and everyone in Whispering Pines is getting ready for a busy week of activities and food. There is even a contest showcasing culinary skills and a famous pastry chef who lived in the village will be there. Unfortunately her being there revives an old feud. When she’s found dead it’s up to Jayne to figure out who the killer is.
September 26, 2018
KU borrow. I love reading about the village of Whispering Pines! So much fun! Each character has his/her own ‘talent’ and unique personality and, by this 5th book in the series, we’ve come to know them pretty well. There’s still a ‘dark cloud’ over the village, though, and yet another murder has happened. Jayne’s instincts are sharper than ever, but she’s finding it hard to believe the villain is one of the WP ‘regulars’. Deputy Reed is coming into his own and has even stood up to his mother a little. I enjoyed the little lesson on the life of bees. Fun stuff!!!
October 2, 2018
This is a really great series. I love the setting , it's like a mystery kind of place to start with. The characters are great, they make you believe that anything is possible. The sherffic is very believable and she is really getting to know the people of Whispering Pines. There are so many interesting things that happen in that town. Love the holidays that they have and what the holiday represent to the people there. The cooking contest was so interesting. The book is something that you can enjoy and it makes you want the next book right now.
July 9, 2019
I read all 7 of the books in the Whispering Pines series. What a great way to spend your time reading a cozy murder mystery! Each book is somewhat stand alone but if you start with book 1 you get each character as they enter the “scene” and the backstory of why our interesting detective is there in the first place. The books are filled with mysterious and quirky characters. From the village residents to visiting tourists, there is always something happening and probably dying to be found! I cannot wait until a new book comes out!
November 9, 2023
It's Mabon and Whispering Pines is celebrating with a baking competition. This competition brings a former resident, Gin, back to the town. She is now a celebrity chef who has a chip on her shoulder over the fact that she was not allowed to open a bakery in the town.
She is found dead, and there are many suspects including the assistants she brought along with her, as well as Sugar, a Whispering Pines resident, and her former best friend.
This was a decent mystery and an easy read.
I'm a little tired of the Jayne/Tripp "romance"
She is found dead, and there are many suspects including the assistants she brought along with her, as well as Sugar, a Whispering Pines resident, and her former best friend.
This was a decent mystery and an easy read.
I'm a little tired of the Jayne/Tripp "romance"
September 25, 2018
Love Whispering Pines, the town and the citizens are great. You feel like you walked into a dream when you read a Whispering Pines story. It has all the elements you are looking for in a good mystery; lots of suspects, twists in the plot, greed and rivalry, and good people doing bad things. Enjoying the advancement of Tripp’s and Jayne’s relationship. Once you get to know the characters you will fall in love with them and the town.
September 25, 2018
Whispering Pines is all set for their celebrate the autumn equinox festival. it is time for good food, fun, and the company of your neighbors and friends. Everything is going really good until the body of a nationally known chef is found in the woods. Could it be someone from Whispering Pines be the killer? Surely not! Jayne is out to prove that her quaint little town isn't harboring any killer. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
September 25, 2018
All is quiet in Whispering Pines. The locals are getting ready for the annual baking contest.Gin Wakefield grew up in the tiny town and moved on to baking fame. Sugar and Gin were childhood friends, but they grew apart. Sugar has a local bake shop and now the two are rivals in the contest. Gin turns up dead in her hotel room. Sheriff Jane puts her usual investigating skills to find out what happened. Was it a natural dead or murder?
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