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Backyard Farming Mystery #3
Honey Homicide
Cordial Killing
Carolan Springs Mysteries · Book 2
Victorian Inn cozy mystery: College reunion + blizzard + murder = page-turner!
Grand opening. Old friends. Fresh murder. What could possibly go wrong?
Anne Freemont and her Carolan Springs crew are thrilled to celebrate the grand opening of the Brandywine Inn -- a beautifully restored Victorian that's finally ready to welcome guests. But when four former college friends arrive for a reunion weekend, their cheerful facade quickly cracks, revealing decades of buried secrets and simmering resentments.
When one guest turns up dead, Anne realizes this cozy gathering has taken a decidedly uncozy turn. Strange sounds echo through the old inn's hallways, and she can't shake the feeling they're not alone. Is the Brandywine haunted -- or is someone among them playing a very dangerous game?
As a freak spring blizzard blankets Carolan Springs in snow and traps everyone inside, Anne must sort through tangled friendships, old grudges, and cryptic clues. With the roads closed and help miles away, can she uncover which "friend" is harboring deadly secrets before someone else ends up on ice?
In this delightfully funny closed-circle cozy mystery, you'll find:
• A grand opening that goes spectacularly, murderously wrong
• A college reunion with twenty years of secrets buried just below the surface
• A blizzard that locks everyone in -- including the killer
• Strange noises, creaky hallways, and just enough atmosphere to keep you guessing
• The handsome sheriff, snowbound and closer than ever to Anne
• Found-family warmth as the Carolan Springs crew rallies around their beloved inn
• Clean, wholesome mystery with zero "blushes" and plenty of twists
Perfect for readers who love:
• Cozy mysteries with Hallmark vibes
• Closed-circle mysteries where the killer is already in the room
• Cozy mysteries with a midlife female amateur sleuth
• Small-town Colorado settings with quirky, lovable characters
• Clean mysteries with heart, humor, and a slow-burn romance
• Series books that make you immediately reach for the next one
This book has a newer cover and new series name: A Carolan Springs Mystery Book 2 Original series title was The Backyard Farming Mysteries. Now titled The Carolan Springs Mysteries.
Carolan Springs Mysteries · Book 2
Victorian Inn cozy mystery: College reunion + blizzard + murder = page-turner!
Grand opening. Old friends. Fresh murder. What could possibly go wrong?
Anne Freemont and her Carolan Springs crew are thrilled to celebrate the grand opening of the Brandywine Inn -- a beautifully restored Victorian that's finally ready to welcome guests. But when four former college friends arrive for a reunion weekend, their cheerful facade quickly cracks, revealing decades of buried secrets and simmering resentments.
When one guest turns up dead, Anne realizes this cozy gathering has taken a decidedly uncozy turn. Strange sounds echo through the old inn's hallways, and she can't shake the feeling they're not alone. Is the Brandywine haunted -- or is someone among them playing a very dangerous game?
As a freak spring blizzard blankets Carolan Springs in snow and traps everyone inside, Anne must sort through tangled friendships, old grudges, and cryptic clues. With the roads closed and help miles away, can she uncover which "friend" is harboring deadly secrets before someone else ends up on ice?
In this delightfully funny closed-circle cozy mystery, you'll find:
• A grand opening that goes spectacularly, murderously wrong
• A college reunion with twenty years of secrets buried just below the surface
• A blizzard that locks everyone in -- including the killer
• Strange noises, creaky hallways, and just enough atmosphere to keep you guessing
• The handsome sheriff, snowbound and closer than ever to Anne
• Found-family warmth as the Carolan Springs crew rallies around their beloved inn
• Clean, wholesome mystery with zero "blushes" and plenty of twists
Perfect for readers who love:
• Cozy mysteries with Hallmark vibes
• Closed-circle mysteries where the killer is already in the room
• Cozy mysteries with a midlife female amateur sleuth
• Small-town Colorado settings with quirky, lovable characters
• Clean mysteries with heart, humor, and a slow-burn romance
• Series books that make you immediately reach for the next one
This book has a newer cover and new series name: A Carolan Springs Mystery Book 2 Original series title was The Backyard Farming Mysteries. Now titled The Carolan Springs Mysteries.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2021
About the author
Vikki Walton
25 books468 followersVikki Walton is the best-selling author of the cozy mystery series, A Backyard Farming series. She is also the author of the Taylor Texas series, and Viviane's Adventures series.
In addition to writing cozy mysteries, she is the author of nonfiction books.
Vikki loves spending time either in her garden or visiting gardens on her travels. She loves animals so you'll usually find some animals in most of her stories.
Vikki currently lives in the beautiful state of Colorado.
You can sign up to receive updates and news about new releases, book deals, and giveaways through https://vikkiwalton.com
You can also find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VikkiWaltonA...
In addition to writing cozy mysteries, she is the author of nonfiction books.
Vikki loves spending time either in her garden or visiting gardens on her travels. She loves animals so you'll usually find some animals in most of her stories.
Vikki currently lives in the beautiful state of Colorado.
You can sign up to receive updates and news about new releases, book deals, and giveaways through https://vikkiwalton.com
You can also find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/VikkiWaltonA...
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 30, 2020
Honey Homicide is the third book in Vikki Walton's 'A Backyard Farming Mystery' series. I've read the previous two and wanted to read this one, so I stayed current on the series. I enjoy learning all about beekeeping and other farming activities, so it's a nice change of pace from other books I've been reading.
In this caper, Kandi and Anne are trying to help their friends survive a string of burglaries, fires, and corruption occurring somewhere in the town. It takes place in Colorado, and there are some pot growers who may or may not be behaving properly. When the cops get involved, and a few bodies start showing up, something is definitely out of sorts. Anne tries to manage her friendship with the sheriff only to find he's accused of the crimes this time! Who do you trust? For Anne, she's slowly falling in love with him, so she'll do what's necessary to protect the man.
Walton's characters are cute. She has a nice balance of dialog and narrative to tell the story. I like getting to see the improvements on the inn. And it's great how everyone works together to solve the crime and help each other survive in the town. Of the three so far, the second is my favorite, but this has fun elements with the bees and the police corruption. I'm looking forward to the next one.
In this caper, Kandi and Anne are trying to help their friends survive a string of burglaries, fires, and corruption occurring somewhere in the town. It takes place in Colorado, and there are some pot growers who may or may not be behaving properly. When the cops get involved, and a few bodies start showing up, something is definitely out of sorts. Anne tries to manage her friendship with the sheriff only to find he's accused of the crimes this time! Who do you trust? For Anne, she's slowly falling in love with him, so she'll do what's necessary to protect the man.
Walton's characters are cute. She has a nice balance of dialog and narrative to tell the story. I like getting to see the improvements on the inn. And it's great how everyone works together to solve the crime and help each other survive in the town. Of the three so far, the second is my favorite, but this has fun elements with the bees and the police corruption. I'm looking forward to the next one.
February 2, 2019
This book is awesome . The ending was the best and i can not wait to read the next one. I read it in 24 hours .
February 12, 2019
Bee seeing you
A good read but possibly not as good as the others. Just felt that the plot was a little off target. However the characters kept it together so I still give it a 4* as the romance is going great guns and Kandi might have picked up another brother.
The Inn has settled into a routine regarding guests but the newest one makes her twitchy. Something is off with the young woman. Then her mind is taken up by a series of fire, assaults, drugs and murder. Now not only has a deputy been killed but Carson's house has gone up in flames and he's missing. Having come to terms with the fact that she's in love with him - what can she do to find who is responsible? What is the guest hiding? Why is Spencer behaving oddly? Why kill the deputy?
A good read but possibly not as good as the others. Just felt that the plot was a little off target. However the characters kept it together so I still give it a 4* as the romance is going great guns and Kandi might have picked up another brother.
The Inn has settled into a routine regarding guests but the newest one makes her twitchy. Something is off with the young woman. Then her mind is taken up by a series of fire, assaults, drugs and murder. Now not only has a deputy been killed but Carson's house has gone up in flames and he's missing. Having come to terms with the fact that she's in love with him - what can she do to find who is responsible? What is the guest hiding? Why is Spencer behaving oddly? Why kill the deputy?
March 10, 2026
This is the 3rd book in Backyard Farming Mystery serie and it is a good book. It is engaging. We get to know here more about Anna's private life and her relationship with Carson. I was surprised by the last chapters and who the culprit was. I will continue to read this serie.
April 26, 2019
The best yet!
I so love these mysteries by Vikki Walton! This book is the best so far. I enjoy the characters who are intelligent, witty and intriguing. Between the character development, descriptive writing, and dialogue, these books take cozy mystery books to a new level. The twists and turns will keep you guessing & I love it when I guess wrong! Shows me that the book is well done. I was floored several times with different clues and situations boggling my mind. The ending was perfect!
I sincerely recommend that you read this series in order to get to know the characters & their history. It's also important when following the sub stories. This could be read by itself, but then you might not understand some of the more humorous & relationship undercurrents. I'm looking forward to reading the next book!
I so love these mysteries by Vikki Walton! This book is the best so far. I enjoy the characters who are intelligent, witty and intriguing. Between the character development, descriptive writing, and dialogue, these books take cozy mystery books to a new level. The twists and turns will keep you guessing & I love it when I guess wrong! Shows me that the book is well done. I was floored several times with different clues and situations boggling my mind. The ending was perfect!
I sincerely recommend that you read this series in order to get to know the characters & their history. It's also important when following the sub stories. This could be read by itself, but then you might not understand some of the more humorous & relationship undercurrents. I'm looking forward to reading the next book!
February 28, 2019
A fun cozy mystery!
The third book in the series didn't disappoint! I love the development of the characters and the mystery kept me guessing! I can't wait for the next book!
The third book in the series didn't disappoint! I love the development of the characters and the mystery kept me guessing! I can't wait for the next book!
August 13, 2019
A fantastic end of the series.... for now!
Honey Homicide is the third book in the Backyard Farming Mystery series. It is currently the last book in the series (however, I am hopefully Walton will write more). I my opinion, this book is the best in the series yet, really finishing a great set of books.
Coming back to Colarado Springs, everyone was in the same situation from the last book. Anne, Kandi and Hope are still running the Inn and everyone is still ok. The group start off by meeting Bill whilst learning about bees. The farming side of these books are always so interesting and fun! 😊
However, later that day, a dead body is found. It is identified as Ray’s body. Moreover, Bill gets beaten up. Anne puts her detective hat back on to try and figure out why these things are occurring. Bill was apparently growing weed for his wife. This storyline was really sad but yet understandable as you can see where Bill is coming from.
Carson tells Anne to stay out of this mystery as it’s the worse one yet! But... she never listens! Afterwards, Hope’s Shop gets burnt down and Carson gets chuck into prison! 👮♂️
However, when he is let out, Carson asks Anne for her help. Together, they pretend to date to find the El Toro Bull. During this time, they start to realise they do actually like each other!!!! I was so excited! 😆
After another death, they finally capture the killer. I won’t spoil who it is, but you will not see this one coming if you are a fan of the series! 🐓
I really loved how the characters developed in this book. I also extremely liked Anne and Carson as I knew they’d get together!
My only complaints would be that I wasn’t a fan of the youth storyline. However, the drugs and corrupt society parts were fantastic!
4/5 Stars
Quick Note: Do not leave this series now! I need more 😂
Honey Homicide is the third book in the Backyard Farming Mystery series. It is currently the last book in the series (however, I am hopefully Walton will write more). I my opinion, this book is the best in the series yet, really finishing a great set of books.
Coming back to Colarado Springs, everyone was in the same situation from the last book. Anne, Kandi and Hope are still running the Inn and everyone is still ok. The group start off by meeting Bill whilst learning about bees. The farming side of these books are always so interesting and fun! 😊
However, later that day, a dead body is found. It is identified as Ray’s body. Moreover, Bill gets beaten up. Anne puts her detective hat back on to try and figure out why these things are occurring. Bill was apparently growing weed for his wife. This storyline was really sad but yet understandable as you can see where Bill is coming from.
Carson tells Anne to stay out of this mystery as it’s the worse one yet! But... she never listens! Afterwards, Hope’s Shop gets burnt down and Carson gets chuck into prison! 👮♂️
However, when he is let out, Carson asks Anne for her help. Together, they pretend to date to find the El Toro Bull. During this time, they start to realise they do actually like each other!!!! I was so excited! 😆
After another death, they finally capture the killer. I won’t spoil who it is, but you will not see this one coming if you are a fan of the series! 🐓
I really loved how the characters developed in this book. I also extremely liked Anne and Carson as I knew they’d get together!
My only complaints would be that I wasn’t a fan of the youth storyline. However, the drugs and corrupt society parts were fantastic!
4/5 Stars
Quick Note: Do not leave this series now! I need more 😂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2021
Marijuana and mystery!
This is the third book in the series but the second one I’ve read. Somehow I skipped the second in the series and I’ll have to remedy that! I have really grown to love the small town of Carolan and it’s sometimes quirky residents. Kandi’s twin brothers come to visit and are a little on the wild side! But there is something sinister going on in town these days. And as Anne begins to check it out, she becomes suspicious that even the police or sheriff departments are involved. When Mary Smith (really?!) arrives and seems to be everywhere and always watchful, Anne adds her to the suspect list. It seems there is too much marijuana around, even if it is legal in Colorado. A fascinating story that will keep you guessing until the end!
This is the third book in the series but the second one I’ve read. Somehow I skipped the second in the series and I’ll have to remedy that! I have really grown to love the small town of Carolan and it’s sometimes quirky residents. Kandi’s twin brothers come to visit and are a little on the wild side! But there is something sinister going on in town these days. And as Anne begins to check it out, she becomes suspicious that even the police or sheriff departments are involved. When Mary Smith (really?!) arrives and seems to be everywhere and always watchful, Anne adds her to the suspect list. It seems there is too much marijuana around, even if it is legal in Colorado. A fascinating story that will keep you guessing until the end!
April 25, 2022
The Birds, The Bees and the Bull
A great 3rd book in this series! Lots of action and character development here. The characters are becoming like friends I would like to know to be sure! There is mystery, intrigue and a surprise ending to make you smile!!! I would have given a full 5 star rating, but the "Valley Girl" impersonation Kandi keeps giving with "like" in every sentence is both annoying and distracting in the story. I try to skip through it, but each time, I lose a bit of the excitement of the story. Other than that...it's a great story!!!!
A great 3rd book in this series! Lots of action and character development here. The characters are becoming like friends I would like to know to be sure! There is mystery, intrigue and a surprise ending to make you smile!!! I would have given a full 5 star rating, but the "Valley Girl" impersonation Kandi keeps giving with "like" in every sentence is both annoying and distracting in the story. I try to skip through it, but each time, I lose a bit of the excitement of the story. Other than that...it's a great story!!!!
August 27, 2019
This was my first time reading a mystery by Vikki Walton. I read this book as a standalone, so I was a bit lost at the beginning. This is a cozy mystery with likeable characters and sort of reminded me of the feel of the Murder She Wrote series. Because I tagged along for the fictional ride starting with this book, it was hard for me to differentiate between the characters. Overall, I found this book well written, entertaining and delightful.
November 16, 2020
A New Author and a new series.
Had never heard of this author and her series until looking for a new read. Her characters and location were both delightful and funny in the stories. Read all three books and enjoyed then all. Learned a lot about homesteading also. Looking forward to a new book soon.
Had never heard of this author and her series until looking for a new read. Her characters and location were both delightful and funny in the stories. Read all three books and enjoyed then all. Learned a lot about homesteading also. Looking forward to a new book soon.
December 2, 2020
Interesting
This could have been an excellent book of there had been some serious editing, mostly in the beginning. I also didn't care for the use of the word "like" in conversation. It's annoying in real life, and it's even worse to have to read it. Otherwise, it is full of suspense, and I did enjoy it!
This could have been an excellent book of there had been some serious editing, mostly in the beginning. I also didn't care for the use of the word "like" in conversation. It's annoying in real life, and it's even worse to have to read it. Otherwise, it is full of suspense, and I did enjoy it!
February 4, 2025
A not so sweet mystery
A series of arson attacks are seemingly unconnected, but are they?
I liked the way that Ann got involved, especially with her feelings for Connor, the sheriff. It was difficult to know who she should trust after Connor was arrested for arson. Lots of suspects made solving this mystery very difficult.
A series of arson attacks are seemingly unconnected, but are they?
I liked the way that Ann got involved, especially with her feelings for Connor, the sheriff. It was difficult to know who she should trust after Connor was arrested for arson. Lots of suspects made solving this mystery very difficult.
April 16, 2025
Drugs and kids do not go together. Once this wicked imposter is allowed to infiltrate their naive senses, it brings about changes which, before long, could lead to murder. Now, this is one story to be reckoned with, it had captivation, intrigue, entertainment, excitement, and the thrill factor all wrapped in an enticing, gripping package.
May 9, 2019
I won this book as part of a giveaway on another website. Many thanks to the author and publisher. This is an honest review.
Although this is not my typical type of read, I really enjoyed this book. I loved the plot twists and surprising ending. A great book.
Although this is not my typical type of read, I really enjoyed this book. I loved the plot twists and surprising ending. A great book.
September 15, 2025
was the first of these books I've read and loved it . good characters and plot. will look for the first 2 to read and for the ones coming after. I like the interactions of the main characters. I recommend it as a good read.
September 9, 2020
Fun and more fun.
This series just keeps on entertaining. It keeps you guessing who the bad guys are right up to the end all while giving sweet love stories.
This series just keeps on entertaining. It keeps you guessing who the bad guys are right up to the end all while giving sweet love stories.
October 28, 2020
Great read
I enjoyed learning about bee keeping aa well as seeing the bad guy put away! The romance is coming along well, too!
I enjoyed learning about bee keeping aa well as seeing the bad guy put away! The romance is coming along well, too!
December 7, 2020
Amazing
I loved it. It is a beautiful thriller with lots of twists and turns and surprises. I would certainly recommend for reading.
I loved it. It is a beautiful thriller with lots of twists and turns and surprises. I would certainly recommend for reading.
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May 1, 2021Busy as a,bee
I really enjoyed reading this story. I didn't know where it was going or who did what. I'm going to recommend this to my niece.
I really enjoyed reading this story. I didn't know where it was going or who did what. I'm going to recommend this to my niece.
June 12, 2023
Lovely mystery in Carolan Springs. All the characters well established. Book 3 in the series. I wouldn’t mind living there with Anne, Kandi, Hope, Carson, Stewart, Spencer and others. Good read!
March 12, 2019
Good story
In the beginning of the story, I had difficulty with exactly who some of the characters were as I hadn't recently read a previous book. Including reoccurring names in the character list would have been a help. A good story aside from that.
In the beginning of the story, I had difficulty with exactly who some of the characters were as I hadn't recently read a previous book. Including reoccurring names in the character list would have been a help. A good story aside from that.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews