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Vintage Kitchen Mystery #10
A Calculated Whisk
In the new Vintage Kitchen Mystery from the author of Cast Iron Alibi, Jaymie Leighton is confronted with two murders and the threat of danger far too close to home . . .When a woman living under a cloud of suspicion for her husband’s death comes to vintage kitchen collector Jaymie Leighton with a mysterious request, she’s not sure whether, or how much, to get involved. The police believe they have new evidence of foul play in what was initially ruled an accidental death, and the woman’s terrified they’ll try to pin the crime on her. Before Jaymie can decide whether to help her, though, the woman’s found murdered in the woods near Jaymie’s cabin.Still unsure whether the woman was truly innocent in her husband’s death, Jaymie decides to get to the bottom of both murders. But as she digs deeper into the couple’s past and discovers a tangled array of long-buried wounds and family secrets, Jaymie begins to sense that danger is still lurking in the woods near her home. With a killer on the loose and her family in danger, Jaymie must uncover the culprit before she loses all she holds dear, including her own life . . .Includes a vintage recipe!Praise for the Vintage Kitchen “All the right ingredients . . . Small-town setting, kitchen antiques . . . and a bowlful of mystery. A perfect recipe.” —New York Times bestselling author Susan Wittig Albert“[A] charming series.” —New York Times bestselling author Sheila Connolly“I have loved this series from the first book . . . it’s like returning to a favorite nook for a cup of tea. It will delight, entice, and drive a reader to want to solve the murder.” —Goodreads on No Grater Danger“A chilling whodunit.” —Richmond Times-Dispatch“Well-plotted with several unexpected twists and more developed characters.” —The Mystery Reader“Jaymie is a great character . . . She is inquisitive and full of surprises!” —Debbie’s Book BagAbout the Victoria Hamilton is the pseudonym of nationally bestselling romance author Donna Lea Simpson. Victoria is the bestselling author of three mystery series, the Lady Anne Addison Mysteries, the Vintage Kitchen Mysteries, and the Merry Muffin Mysteries. She also writes a Regency-set historical mystery series, starting with A Gentlewoman’s Guide to Murder. Visit her website at victoriahamiltonmysteries.com.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 21, 2021
53 people are currently reading
340 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Hamilton
45 books1,040 followersVictoria Hamilton is the bestselling author of several mystery series including the national bestselling Vintage Kitchen Mysteries and Merry Muffin Mysteries. She does, indeed, collect vintage kitchenware and bake muffins. She drinks tea and coffee on writing days, and wine other times. It doesn’t do to confuse days. A solitary being, she can be coaxed out of her writing cave for brownies and cat videos.
She started her writing life as Donna Lea Simpson, bestselling author of Regency Romances, paranormal historicals and historical mysteries, and still has a soft spot for the Regency period.
In fact her latest writing adventure is the new Regency-set historical mystery series - to be published by Midnight Ink - beginning in February 2019 with A Gentlewoman's Guide to Murder, featuring Miss Emmeline St. Germaine, a young lady who dares to defy society. She will fight for her right to live her own life, despite the dangers that presents. She has a dagger, and she's not afraid to use it.
If you Google ‘Victoria Hamilton’, you will find listed first a famous actress who starred as the Queen Mother in the Crown and as Charlotte Brontë in ‘In Search of the Brontës’. That’s not the Victoria who writes mysteries.
No, really, it’s not!
You can find her buried in a good book, (entombed in a good tome?) or online at:
Website: http://www.VictoriaHamiltonMysteries.com (Sign up for her annoyingly infrequent newsletter for all the latest!)
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorVictor...
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/MysteryVictoria
She started her writing life as Donna Lea Simpson, bestselling author of Regency Romances, paranormal historicals and historical mysteries, and still has a soft spot for the Regency period.
In fact her latest writing adventure is the new Regency-set historical mystery series - to be published by Midnight Ink - beginning in February 2019 with A Gentlewoman's Guide to Murder, featuring Miss Emmeline St. Germaine, a young lady who dares to defy society. She will fight for her right to live her own life, despite the dangers that presents. She has a dagger, and she's not afraid to use it.
If you Google ‘Victoria Hamilton’, you will find listed first a famous actress who starred as the Queen Mother in the Crown and as Charlotte Brontë in ‘In Search of the Brontës’. That’s not the Victoria who writes mysteries.
No, really, it’s not!
You can find her buried in a good book, (entombed in a good tome?) or online at:
Website: http://www.VictoriaHamiltonMysteries.com (Sign up for her annoyingly infrequent newsletter for all the latest!)
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorVictor...
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/MysteryVictoria
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
October 31, 2021
A Calculated Whisk is the 10th book in the Vintage Kitchen Mysteries written by Victoria Hamilton. I've been a fan of this wonderful series and author for almost a decade, and I've read all her books in this collection and the ones in the Merry Muffin series too. I can't decide which one I prefer! That said, this review is all about the latest and greatest, and boy did the author whisk up a complicated family drama. I loved the genealogical aspects of this tale, plus the revisit of a death from years ago.
Jaymie tries to stay away from murder investigations, but they follow her like bad karma. This time, she's asked for help by a woman whose husband died in a supposed accident nearly five years ago. The woman is the mother of a friend of Jaymie's daughter at school, so she feels compelled to do the right thing. After a couple of conversations, the woman arranges to meet Jaymie to explain who she think murdered her husband. When Jaymie walks through the woods to meet the widow, the poor woman's been stabbed by a vintage kitchen instrument. Any guesses which one?
Oh, the book had it all. I loved the family drama - seriously, between the mothers and daughters, husbands and ex-lovers, who cheated on whom, and what's really going on today, it was a lot to keep straight. But a good author balances repeating the relationships and offering clues to keep you entrenched in the plot. Watching Jayme become a mother to her new stepdaughter, Jocie, is incredibly heartwarming, and I can't wait until she's pregnant with her and Jakob's child (okay, wishful thinking, of course).
The mystery was strong. The characters were memorable. The setting was charming. The book really held my interest, and I highly recommend beginning your journey from the very first book. The series changes when Jaymie falls in love, but that's also where it really settles into its own. Grab a copy now while it's hot! You won't be disappointed.
Jaymie tries to stay away from murder investigations, but they follow her like bad karma. This time, she's asked for help by a woman whose husband died in a supposed accident nearly five years ago. The woman is the mother of a friend of Jaymie's daughter at school, so she feels compelled to do the right thing. After a couple of conversations, the woman arranges to meet Jaymie to explain who she think murdered her husband. When Jaymie walks through the woods to meet the widow, the poor woman's been stabbed by a vintage kitchen instrument. Any guesses which one?
Oh, the book had it all. I loved the family drama - seriously, between the mothers and daughters, husbands and ex-lovers, who cheated on whom, and what's really going on today, it was a lot to keep straight. But a good author balances repeating the relationships and offering clues to keep you entrenched in the plot. Watching Jayme become a mother to her new stepdaughter, Jocie, is incredibly heartwarming, and I can't wait until she's pregnant with her and Jakob's child (okay, wishful thinking, of course).
The mystery was strong. The characters were memorable. The setting was charming. The book really held my interest, and I highly recommend beginning your journey from the very first book. The series changes when Jaymie falls in love, but that's also where it really settles into its own. Grab a copy now while it's hot! You won't be disappointed.
August 31, 2021
A Calculated Whisk was an enjoyable read. Jaymie Leighton Mieller is the main character of the story. The other characters add a lot to make the story intriguing. There are two murders, the first Jace Vance died from a car jack accident and five years later his wife, Alicia Vance is killed walking through the woods to Jaymie's house. Jaymie wants to find out who killed Alicia for the sake of her daughter. Mia who is a good friend and classmate of her stepdaughter, Jocie. The story has lots of twists and turns with many people in the story that could have murdered both Alicia and her husband. This story keeps the reader on their toes and in the dark who actually did the two murders until the end.
Thank you NetGalley and Beyond The Page Publishing for this ARC.
Thank you NetGalley and Beyond The Page Publishing for this ARC.
October 6, 2021
It’s because of the Vintage Kitchen Mysteries that I became a fan of author Victoria Hamilton. I wasn’t even finished with the first book in the series, and I was ready for more. And more I got! Now, having read book 10, A CALCULATED WHISK, I’m ready for the next ten books!
A wonderful read, A CALCULATED WHISK, drew me in one the very first page and left me out of breath by the last. This story had everything that makes for a great cozy mystery.
Protagonist, Jaymie, had her hands full when a murder from the past leads to another murder in the present. Trying to work out the who and the why, I unleashed my inner Nancy Drew. Nancy must have been asleep because I couldn’t figure out this mystery. Author Hamilton left plenty of clues, but I just didn’t figure them out. When the reveal came, it was a total smack-myself-in-the-forehead moment. So well done!
To those of you reading this review, it comes nowhere close to doing the book justice. If you are a reader of the Vintage Kitchen Mysteries, you’re going to love every moment of, A CALCULATED WHISK. If you haven’t read any of this series, what are you waiting for? Go on. Get! Go buy them right now and binge read them all!
A wonderful read, A CALCULATED WHISK, drew me in one the very first page and left me out of breath by the last. This story had everything that makes for a great cozy mystery.
Protagonist, Jaymie, had her hands full when a murder from the past leads to another murder in the present. Trying to work out the who and the why, I unleashed my inner Nancy Drew. Nancy must have been asleep because I couldn’t figure out this mystery. Author Hamilton left plenty of clues, but I just didn’t figure them out. When the reveal came, it was a total smack-myself-in-the-forehead moment. So well done!
To those of you reading this review, it comes nowhere close to doing the book justice. If you are a reader of the Vintage Kitchen Mysteries, you’re going to love every moment of, A CALCULATED WHISK. If you haven’t read any of this series, what are you waiting for? Go on. Get! Go buy them right now and binge read them all!
August 23, 2021
Jaymie is my all time favorite character and I enjoy each new book that comes out.
Everyone knows that Jaymie is a vintage cookware expert, so it comes as no surprise when someone seeks her out, for advice or help. This time, it wasn't her cookware knowledge that was needed, it was her experience in solving crimes that was needed.
A bizarre turn of events finds Jaymie in the middle of another murder investigation, and this time it's too close to home for her.
Keeping her family safe is her number one priority, so when she begins asking questions, she has no idea of the dark family secrets she will be revealing.
I really enjoyed the storyline, and there were plenty of red herrings to keep me guessing.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#ACalculatedWhisk #NetGalley
Everyone knows that Jaymie is a vintage cookware expert, so it comes as no surprise when someone seeks her out, for advice or help. This time, it wasn't her cookware knowledge that was needed, it was her experience in solving crimes that was needed.
A bizarre turn of events finds Jaymie in the middle of another murder investigation, and this time it's too close to home for her.
Keeping her family safe is her number one priority, so when she begins asking questions, she has no idea of the dark family secrets she will be revealing.
I really enjoyed the storyline, and there were plenty of red herrings to keep me guessing.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#ACalculatedWhisk #NetGalley
November 15, 2021
I always love reading a new book in this series. This series is what started my love of cozies. The characters are relatable, interesting, and feel like old friends. I have really enjoyed how Jaymie’s character has developed over the series and she is a great sr
Stepmom for Jocie. The mystery is well plotted with plenty of surprises to keep you engaged in solving the mystery. Can’t wait for the next in the series.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
Stepmom for Jocie. The mystery is well plotted with plenty of surprises to keep you engaged in solving the mystery. Can’t wait for the next in the series.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
August 24, 2021
When a woman suspected of killing her husband approaches vintage kitchen utensil collector Jaymie Leighton for help, Jaymie is surprised. What does the woman need Jaymie's help for? Unfortunately, Jaymie will never know what the woman needed, because the woman was found dead just days after meeting Jaymie. With not one, but two murders to consider and one or more killers on the loose, Jaymie must untangle a web of complicated clues and get to the bottom of the case before the killer(s) get to her and her family.
Hamilton has a beautifully expressive writing style that helps bring her characters to life. I particularly enjoyed her descriptions of the setting and of Jaymie's train of thought as she investigates the mystery. And I'm always a sucker for a punny title!
I also enjoyed the strong character building this novel featured. Many of the characters are interesting, yet flawed, making for a suspenseful mystery. This contributed to making a complex mystery complete with red herrings, false assumptions, and a lot of investigative work on Jaymie's part.
The highlight of the book for me was the thoughtful way in which Hamilton addressed the impact of crime on the family and friends of victims. Though it made for a heavy read at some points, this is an important topic that isn't often mentioned in cozy mysteries. The integration of this topic into the mystery was very well done.
At times though, I did feel that the book was almost too expressive. This is a slower paced mystery, which makes sense given the attention Hamilton gives to both her characters and the execution of the mystery. However, the slowness meant that the plot dragged at some points. I think some scenes could have been edited or even eliminated to help make the book tighter.
Thank you to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Readers should know that there is minimal violence in the book and no foul language. For those who are sensitive to the topic, there are discussions of infidelity.
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Hamilton has a beautifully expressive writing style that helps bring her characters to life. I particularly enjoyed her descriptions of the setting and of Jaymie's train of thought as she investigates the mystery. And I'm always a sucker for a punny title!
I also enjoyed the strong character building this novel featured. Many of the characters are interesting, yet flawed, making for a suspenseful mystery. This contributed to making a complex mystery complete with red herrings, false assumptions, and a lot of investigative work on Jaymie's part.
The highlight of the book for me was the thoughtful way in which Hamilton addressed the impact of crime on the family and friends of victims. Though it made for a heavy read at some points, this is an important topic that isn't often mentioned in cozy mysteries. The integration of this topic into the mystery was very well done.
At times though, I did feel that the book was almost too expressive. This is a slower paced mystery, which makes sense given the attention Hamilton gives to both her characters and the execution of the mystery. However, the slowness meant that the plot dragged at some points. I think some scenes could have been edited or even eliminated to help make the book tighter.
Thank you to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Readers should know that there is minimal violence in the book and no foul language. For those who are sensitive to the topic, there are discussions of infidelity.
For more of my reviews, please visit:
August 10, 2022
Barbara’s rating: 4 of 5 stars
Series: Vintage Kitchen Mystery #10
Publication Date: 9/21/21
Period: Contemporary - Michigan
Number of Pages: 212
A happily settled-down Jamie Leighton is going about her life as a new wife and mother (step, to Jocie) in Queensville, Michigan when she is approached by Alicia Vance who is the mother of Jocie’s friend, Mia. Alicia makes a number of oblique references and statements before she finally decides to trust Jamie with what she suspects and what she wants to know. Sadly, that gives a murderer the opportunity they need to keep her from telling Jamie anything at all.
Jamie is torn – leave the investigating totally to the police and Detective Vestry, or ‘help’ in her own inimitable way. With Jocie upset about the fate of her now orphaned friend, Jamie just couldn’t stay out of the investigation. Had Alicia murdered her husband several years ago? Was he actually murdered or was it really just an accident? If he was murdered, who, other than Alicia, had a motive? If Alicia killed her husband – who killed Alicia?
With a killer in their midst, Jamie fears her family could be in danger, especially if they believe Alicia actually told Jamie something about her husband’s death. Alicia’s family and that of her deceased husband are weirdly intertwined and they are all highly dysfunctional. Can Jamie peel back the layers and expose the canker to the light of day before something happens to her and her family?
This has been an entertaining series with wonderful characters, mystifying mysteries, and even a cute three-legged dog. I was happy to see more page time for Jakob (Jamie’s husband) in this book. I really like him, but felt we really didn’t know him – and we still don’t really, but this book definitely helped.
I thoroughly enjoyed this light, entertaining mystery and hope you will as well.
Series: Vintage Kitchen Mystery #10
Publication Date: 9/21/21
Period: Contemporary - Michigan
Number of Pages: 212
A happily settled-down Jamie Leighton is going about her life as a new wife and mother (step, to Jocie) in Queensville, Michigan when she is approached by Alicia Vance who is the mother of Jocie’s friend, Mia. Alicia makes a number of oblique references and statements before she finally decides to trust Jamie with what she suspects and what she wants to know. Sadly, that gives a murderer the opportunity they need to keep her from telling Jamie anything at all.
Jamie is torn – leave the investigating totally to the police and Detective Vestry, or ‘help’ in her own inimitable way. With Jocie upset about the fate of her now orphaned friend, Jamie just couldn’t stay out of the investigation. Had Alicia murdered her husband several years ago? Was he actually murdered or was it really just an accident? If he was murdered, who, other than Alicia, had a motive? If Alicia killed her husband – who killed Alicia?
With a killer in their midst, Jamie fears her family could be in danger, especially if they believe Alicia actually told Jamie something about her husband’s death. Alicia’s family and that of her deceased husband are weirdly intertwined and they are all highly dysfunctional. Can Jamie peel back the layers and expose the canker to the light of day before something happens to her and her family?
This has been an entertaining series with wonderful characters, mystifying mysteries, and even a cute three-legged dog. I was happy to see more page time for Jakob (Jamie’s husband) in this book. I really like him, but felt we really didn’t know him – and we still don’t really, but this book definitely helped.
I thoroughly enjoyed this light, entertaining mystery and hope you will as well.
August 26, 2021
When Jaymie’s daughter becomes friends with a girl in her class, Jaymie meets the mother and the woman asks to meet with Jaymie alone to talk to her. The woman keeps putting off sharing what she wants to discuss one too many times and is killed on her way to see Jaymie and tell her what she wanted to discuss. Now Jaymie is seeking justice for the young mother and begins sleuthing. The family was incredibly unlucky, but maybe the dead woman’s husband, who died in an accident fiver years ago, was also murdered. Jaymie will find out, if it’s the last thing she does!
This is a favorite series and I always follow the author to find out when the next release will be. Between the three legged dog, a little daughter and vintage kitchen items, I’m there. It’s the great whodunit in each entry that keeps me coming back! Already longing for the next entry in the series.
This is a favorite series and I always follow the author to find out when the next release will be. Between the three legged dog, a little daughter and vintage kitchen items, I’m there. It’s the great whodunit in each entry that keeps me coming back! Already longing for the next entry in the series.
August 29, 2021
Great series and author.
August 21, 2021
This is the first in this series for me and i felt it was a little slow in the beginning, but as I read on I found I enjoyed the slower pace. Our heroine didn’t do anything stupid or crazy, she just talked to people and she didn’t really jump to conclusions either. The mystery itself was very good; definitely not what I was expecting. And there were plenty of good red herrings. I liked the recipe added on, but I do hope there’s a little more about vintage cookware in the next one.
September 22, 2021
Author Victoria Hamilton has a very intriguing storyline in her latest Vintage Kitchen Mystery, A Calculated Whisk. I was so surprised at the murder weapon in this book. Not something one would think would work as a murder weapon. I enjoyed amateur sleuth Jaymi Leighton Muller's way of getting information from seemingly casual conversations that ended up being clues that helped solve the mystery. This was a very enjoyable read and a great addition to the series.
I received an ARC and am happy to provide a honest review.
I received an ARC and am happy to provide a honest review.
September 20, 2021
A Calculated Whisk is the 10th book in the Vintage Kitchen Mysteries written by Victoria Hamilton.
I loved this fabulous cozy mystery! I started the series in book nine (with Cast Iron Alibi). Jaymie Leighton Müller is the main character of the story and I adore the author's masterful writing. A Calculated Whisk is a wonderful blend of mystery and friendships and many of the characters are great individuals, whilst some are less so. The author managed the pacing perfectly within the awesome and absorbing plot. With no shortage of suspects, there was plenty of clues and possibilities to satisfy even the most enthusiastic and diligent of armchair detectives. A superb read, with a strong plot and characters and rich in family drama, this novel is very highly recommended and well-worth five stars. I will be watching out for the next book as well as tackling this author's back catalogue.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Beyond the Page Publishing via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I loved this fabulous cozy mystery! I started the series in book nine (with Cast Iron Alibi). Jaymie Leighton Müller is the main character of the story and I adore the author's masterful writing. A Calculated Whisk is a wonderful blend of mystery and friendships and many of the characters are great individuals, whilst some are less so. The author managed the pacing perfectly within the awesome and absorbing plot. With no shortage of suspects, there was plenty of clues and possibilities to satisfy even the most enthusiastic and diligent of armchair detectives. A superb read, with a strong plot and characters and rich in family drama, this novel is very highly recommended and well-worth five stars. I will be watching out for the next book as well as tackling this author's back catalogue.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Beyond the Page Publishing via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
September 21, 2021
Jaymie Leighton Mueller 's step-daughter has a few challenges to face in life. She makes friends with a new classmate who also has some challenges, and as happens, the parents of the children begin to get to know each other.
However, before much progress is made, Mia's remaining parent, Jaymie's new Mom Friend, is murdered. The timing of the murder, and the method, make Jaymie feel she has to get involved, she MUST figure out not only who did this crime, but also if the loss of Mia's other parent, was connected to this murder.
The police considered Mia's father's death to be suspicious, but are not really looking too closely at this cold case. There is no mistaking the new death as anything but murder.
Family relationships play a major role in this book, as well as friendship loyalties. So many people have information they are not sharing. It is frustrating to know this puzzle would come together if all the pieces were available.
Knowing that at least portions of this book are based on true crimes is also terrifying. It could happen in your own neighborhood.
This book kept me on edge from start to finish.
Very atmos-FEAR-ic.
However, before much progress is made, Mia's remaining parent, Jaymie's new Mom Friend, is murdered. The timing of the murder, and the method, make Jaymie feel she has to get involved, she MUST figure out not only who did this crime, but also if the loss of Mia's other parent, was connected to this murder.
The police considered Mia's father's death to be suspicious, but are not really looking too closely at this cold case. There is no mistaking the new death as anything but murder.
Family relationships play a major role in this book, as well as friendship loyalties. So many people have information they are not sharing. It is frustrating to know this puzzle would come together if all the pieces were available.
Knowing that at least portions of this book are based on true crimes is also terrifying. It could happen in your own neighborhood.
This book kept me on edge from start to finish.
Very atmos-FEAR-ic.
January 12, 2022
I hesitated to request this through NetGalley. The last few in the series have not been my favorite and I haven’t found anything favorable to review in them. I am happy to say that the series seems to be back on track. Jaymie was not nearly as bossy and annoying in this one. Additionally, this was a little darker than most cozies, with a gruesome murder and so much family drama. It still moves a little too slowly but I enjoyed this one so much more than the last few.
I received a copy from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2021
A Calculated Whisk by Victoria Hamilton is the 10th book in A Vintage Kitchen Mystery series, and another great addition. Ms. Hamilton does it again! Jaymie has come so far since we were first introduced to her. Jaymie is married to Jakob Muller, and the step-mother to his charming daughter. Jayme is getting to know a single mother, when the women is murdered while coming to see her. Jaymie is determined to uncover the truth I loved this book and this whole series, and can't wait for the next book in the series. As always the series is best when it is read in order, but this book can be read as a stand alone. I found this book to be a quick and fun read, with a well developed plot and characters. If you love fun cozy mysteries, which are my favorite, you will love this book/series. I also found it very interesting that this murder was based on a true story. Wow! Strongly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 15, 2021
A Calculated Whisk by Victoria Hamilton is the 10th A Vintage Kitchen Mystery. It can be read as a standalone if you are new to the series. I have read this entertaining series from the beginning, and I have enjoyed each story. They just keep getting better. Jaymie Leighton Muller is a strong female protagonist who has grown over the course of the series. I like seeing her happy with her husband, stepdaughter, her jobs, and fur babies. There is a great cast of secondary characters that enhance the story. They are realistic characters which I appreciate. The author’s descriptive writing style brings the characters and the charming Michigan town to life. The mystery was interesting. There is a five-year-old crime that has been recently deemed a homicide and it involves a neighbor. At the request of Detective Vestry, Jaymie gets close to the wife of the victim to try and obtain information. Unfortunately, the woman ends up dead before she shares her information. Jaymie believes the two crimes are connected. She wants to get closure for the family so Jaymie begins digging into the case. Jaymie has her work cut out for her if she is going to solve this whodunit. It is clever how Jaymie gets helpful information from casual conversations. You never know what nugget of information will help solve the case. I thought the murder weapon was quite unique. I found A Calculated Whisk to be well-written with the story moving at a slower pace courtesy of the author’s expressive writing. I appreciated that the story contained no foul language and negligible violence. I thoroughly enjoyed the descriptions and information about vintage kitchen items. I can understand Jaymie’s fascination with them. I enjoyed my visit with Jaymie and her family. Jaymie’s stepdaughter is such a sweetheart and Hoppy makes me laugh with his antics. A Calculated Whisk is an engaging tale with wire whisks, a fun new friend, a cold case, a dedicated detective, a senseless slaying, a mournful mother, and a resolute amateur sleuth.
August 29, 2021
This was a good cozy mystery! It seemed to break the mold, and gave me something that I really enjoyed, not just another cookie cutter mystery. I enjoyed having a main character who was married and had a family. That added another layer to things. You can't just go off and do something that might get you killed when you have a spouse and child to think of! I also liked that she really didn't have an in on the police force. She talked to the detective when she needed to but that was it. She seemed to actually have common sense and talked to people to see what was going on and if she could get the information she needed. I did not see the ending coming, and had my eye on one (or two or three) other culprits. So the actual murderer wasn't even on my radar. I greatly enjoyed the book and will look into reading the earlier books of the series sometime soon.
Thank you to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
September 1, 2021
I do not normally jump into a series without reading all the books in order but the cover on this book convinced me to read this book.
I enjoyed meeting Jaime and her family. There were a few details which really made me wish I had read the earlier books but they were small detail. This was a very good mystery with plenty of red herrings and I didn’t know who did it once the murderer was revealed.
I enjoyed how it wrapped up snd it did make logical sense.
My only wish is the book cover had their little dog on it instead of this cat. The cat was mentioned maybe twice while the dog was very prominent in the book.
Overall good story.
This is honest review of ARC I received from NetGalley.
I enjoyed meeting Jaime and her family. There were a few details which really made me wish I had read the earlier books but they were small detail. This was a very good mystery with plenty of red herrings and I didn’t know who did it once the murderer was revealed.
I enjoyed how it wrapped up snd it did make logical sense.
My only wish is the book cover had their little dog on it instead of this cat. The cat was mentioned maybe twice while the dog was very prominent in the book.
Overall good story.
This is honest review of ARC I received from NetGalley.
December 22, 2021
Good friends are wonderful
Good friends are great. In this book you will see what good friendships can do. You will also.see.the other side, what evil and greed can do to a friendship. I really enjoy this series and hope there will be more to come.
Good friends are great. In this book you will see what good friendships can do. You will also.see.the other side, what evil and greed can do to a friendship. I really enjoy this series and hope there will be more to come.
July 1, 2022
I find it hard to believe that a whisk can be used as a murder weapon. But other than that I think this was a good story.
July 25, 2022
A light fun read!!
February 2, 2022
Unfortunately, it took me awhile to get into this book in the series. Too much running around and hard to keep my interest. I have like the previous books with Jaymie. The good part is about her daughter and the friend her daughter has in her class.
March 3, 2022
Fascinating network of family relationships and deaths - past and present. Gradual uncovering of motives and alibis and secrets. Quite entertaining.
February 26, 2023
This is definitely not a bad book!
I like how it's written and the story itself is quite intriguing, but there were too many characters for me to keep track of and so many of them had similar names - Jacob, Jace, Jaymie, Jocie - they got all mixed together. The heroine didn't do much besides have the same conversation with the same five people over and over again.
I like how it's written and the story itself is quite intriguing, but there were too many characters for me to keep track of and so many of them had similar names - Jacob, Jace, Jaymie, Jocie - they got all mixed together. The heroine didn't do much besides have the same conversation with the same five people over and over again.
June 28, 2025
Save for the murder weapon, a mangled whisk, there isn't much of Jaymie's work with either vintage recipes or vintage cookware. These missing details removed the usual fun of these books.
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October 10, 2022
This one was SO hard to finish. Repetitive, inane, just boring. Oh, and repetitive. And also, it was REALLY repetitive. Probably won't continue the series, I'm sorry to say.
September 22, 2021
A CALCULATED WHISK by Victoria Hamilton
The Tenth Vintage Kitchen Mystery
Alicia Vance and her family have had their fair share of tragedies, including the accident that killed her husband. But was it an accident? Alicia seems to know something and Detective Vestry is keen to get Jaymie involved, thinking the women are friends, just like their daughters. Jaymie is hesitant, but seems to be making slow progress with the wary Alicia. Just when it seems that she's on the verge of confiding in Jaymie Alicia is murdered. Jaymie fears that her own family will now become a target, but her curious nature and a desire for justice means that she'll keep searching for the truth.
A CALCULATED WHISK is a story about family, both functional and dysfunctional. It's about the past encroaching on the present and never knowing what truly goes on behind closed doors. It's also about fitting in when you're different and learning and doing your best.
There's quite a difference between the whole Vance clan and the almost too good to be true Müllers. The Vance and Hansen families have enough intermingling backstory to be a soap opera, or sadly an episode of 20/20. Jaymie has a lot to sort through while also writing her newspaper articles, working at her husband's junk store as well as the Queenseville Historic manor, and helping with domestic duties at home. I may be in the minority, but I'm not a huge fan of Jocie and felt too much time was spent dealing with children and not really moving the story along. I must admit though that part of their presence is integral to the plot. If you love children you'll be very happy with the way the series has progressed.
I like how Jaymie has friends of all ages, which also makes it easier to not only make more connections, but see various perspectives. I have always loved the idea of vintage kitchen items and can easily picture my own grandmother's items as the items in boxes, whisks and potato mashers, red wooden handles and all. They give a sense of nostalgia that warms the heart.
A CALCULATED WHISK is a multilayered mystery enveloped in family drama. In the end, friends and family come together bringing comfort and coziness in a world that isn't always kind.
The Tenth Vintage Kitchen Mystery
Alicia Vance and her family have had their fair share of tragedies, including the accident that killed her husband. But was it an accident? Alicia seems to know something and Detective Vestry is keen to get Jaymie involved, thinking the women are friends, just like their daughters. Jaymie is hesitant, but seems to be making slow progress with the wary Alicia. Just when it seems that she's on the verge of confiding in Jaymie Alicia is murdered. Jaymie fears that her own family will now become a target, but her curious nature and a desire for justice means that she'll keep searching for the truth.
A CALCULATED WHISK is a story about family, both functional and dysfunctional. It's about the past encroaching on the present and never knowing what truly goes on behind closed doors. It's also about fitting in when you're different and learning and doing your best.
There's quite a difference between the whole Vance clan and the almost too good to be true Müllers. The Vance and Hansen families have enough intermingling backstory to be a soap opera, or sadly an episode of 20/20. Jaymie has a lot to sort through while also writing her newspaper articles, working at her husband's junk store as well as the Queenseville Historic manor, and helping with domestic duties at home. I may be in the minority, but I'm not a huge fan of Jocie and felt too much time was spent dealing with children and not really moving the story along. I must admit though that part of their presence is integral to the plot. If you love children you'll be very happy with the way the series has progressed.
I like how Jaymie has friends of all ages, which also makes it easier to not only make more connections, but see various perspectives. I have always loved the idea of vintage kitchen items and can easily picture my own grandmother's items as the items in boxes, whisks and potato mashers, red wooden handles and all. They give a sense of nostalgia that warms the heart.
A CALCULATED WHISK is a multilayered mystery enveloped in family drama. In the end, friends and family come together bringing comfort and coziness in a world that isn't always kind.
September 23, 2021
A Calculated Whisk by Victoria Hamilton is a cozy mystery, tenth in the Vintage Kitchen series. The protagonist is Jaymie Leighton Muller, wife of Jakob and stepmother to Jocie, a joyous little person. In this story, Jocie has befriended another little girl, Mia, who is different also. She has lost a leg and has a pink prosthetic. Her mother, Alicia, seems to be in need of a friend, and reaches out to Jaymie, but before anything can come of it, Alicia is murdered, apparently on her way to talk to Jaymie about whatever has been bothering her. Jaymie has promised Detective Vestry she will stay out of it, but it has been seriously bothering her. This family had had a string of bad luck, with this just being the latest, and Jaymie just can't' let it go. There are a variety of seriously suspicious people in Alicia's extended family and Jaymie is able to trace years of their lives as they have lived in this small town forever. They all went to high school together and everyone knows them.
Jaymie is a very likable domestic goddess who has the opportunity to work part-time in her husband's business as well as volunteer at an historic house, and be at home for Jocie. Jakob could not be more supportive and loves her and cares for his small family. She has a best friend, Val, who is the pharmacist and font of gossip, both current and age-old. She also has an elderly friend in Mrs. Stubbs, who likes nothing better than to help solve a mystery, be it Jaymie's, on television, or in books, fiction or non-fiction. Jaymie tries to use good sense so no one will get hurt, but things happen. This was a very confusing mystery. There were so many good suspects and no one seemed able to tell the whole story. Too many secrets. And worst of all, was Mia, who had now lost both parents and likely had another relative who was a murderer. Tough stuff for a little girl. Well written and fast-paced, this is a wonderful, full of questions and clues. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of A Calculated Whisk by Victoria Hamilton by Beyond the Page Books, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #beyondthepagebooks #acalculatedwhisk
Jaymie is a very likable domestic goddess who has the opportunity to work part-time in her husband's business as well as volunteer at an historic house, and be at home for Jocie. Jakob could not be more supportive and loves her and cares for his small family. She has a best friend, Val, who is the pharmacist and font of gossip, both current and age-old. She also has an elderly friend in Mrs. Stubbs, who likes nothing better than to help solve a mystery, be it Jaymie's, on television, or in books, fiction or non-fiction. Jaymie tries to use good sense so no one will get hurt, but things happen. This was a very confusing mystery. There were so many good suspects and no one seemed able to tell the whole story. Too many secrets. And worst of all, was Mia, who had now lost both parents and likely had another relative who was a murderer. Tough stuff for a little girl. Well written and fast-paced, this is a wonderful, full of questions and clues. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of A Calculated Whisk by Victoria Hamilton by Beyond the Page Books, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #beyondthepagebooks #acalculatedwhisk
September 13, 2021
3.5 stars
I’ve read a few books in this series, but was surprised to see this is the tenth book in this cozy series. Jaymie Leighton Miller is now a happy wife and stepmom and still enjoys collecting vintage kitchen utensils and dishes. The mother of one of Jaymie’s daughter’s friends tells her she needs advice, but before she can elaborate, Alicia Vance is murdered. Jaymie is determined to find out what happened to her friend and if there is a connection to Alicia’s husband’s suspicious death.
I’ve really enjoyed this unique series. It is cozy, but still deals with some serious issues. I enjoyed seeing Jaymie narrow down who the killer could be from a large number of potential suspects. A kitchen utensil plays an important part of the plot, but I was disappointed that there wasn’t the same emphasis on vintage kitchen accessories as there was in others I’ve read in this series. Jaymie’s husband and brother-in-law have a Christmas tree farm and the few paragraphs devoted to that business are really interesting. I would have enjoyed more scenes on that farm.
I like the relationship between Jaymie and her husband Jakob and the way he supports her sleuthing, even when he is concerned about her. I also appreciate that although they aren’t friends, Jaymie regularly shares what she learns during her investigation with Angela Vestry, the police detective investigating Alicia’s death. The book takes a bit to get going, but overall, was a quick and entertaining read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Beyond the Page for providing an advance copy of this ebook. The book was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
I’ve read a few books in this series, but was surprised to see this is the tenth book in this cozy series. Jaymie Leighton Miller is now a happy wife and stepmom and still enjoys collecting vintage kitchen utensils and dishes. The mother of one of Jaymie’s daughter’s friends tells her she needs advice, but before she can elaborate, Alicia Vance is murdered. Jaymie is determined to find out what happened to her friend and if there is a connection to Alicia’s husband’s suspicious death.
I’ve really enjoyed this unique series. It is cozy, but still deals with some serious issues. I enjoyed seeing Jaymie narrow down who the killer could be from a large number of potential suspects. A kitchen utensil plays an important part of the plot, but I was disappointed that there wasn’t the same emphasis on vintage kitchen accessories as there was in others I’ve read in this series. Jaymie’s husband and brother-in-law have a Christmas tree farm and the few paragraphs devoted to that business are really interesting. I would have enjoyed more scenes on that farm.
I like the relationship between Jaymie and her husband Jakob and the way he supports her sleuthing, even when he is concerned about her. I also appreciate that although they aren’t friends, Jaymie regularly shares what she learns during her investigation with Angela Vestry, the police detective investigating Alicia’s death. The book takes a bit to get going, but overall, was a quick and entertaining read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Beyond the Page for providing an advance copy of this ebook. The book was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
September 22, 2021
First where have I been?
Which is why Great Escapes Book Tours is a great place for Authors to promote their books.
This was my first chance to hear about and read a part of the Vintage Kitchen Mystery series.
2nd . . .Look at that cover. Does that cover just not beckon.
I loved the Vintage to theme and that recipes are included. I am a sucker for recipes in books!
I enjoyed Jaymie's strong sense of character and determination. She seems to be quite the sleuth since this is book 10 in the series.
Although I didn't feel I missed anything I sure do want to go back and read the other 9.
The author kept this reader guessing with some twists and turns.
I did have a hard time keeping the characters or should I say suspects straight. Alicia's (the victim) mom and her friends from school and her deceased husband's family were hard to keep straight. But I did finally figure everyone out.
I have to say I did not like the female police detective.
I questioned along with Jaymie if her medling and coercing Jaymie to question Alicia and then tell her to stay out of the investigation was setting Jaymie and Alicia up.
I'd like to read the previous books and see how the relationship with Jaymie and the detective developed.
I have a few new titles to add to my wish list!
I was glad the Chicken A La King recipe was included and I plan to cook it this week!
I received a complimentary copy.
Which is why Great Escapes Book Tours is a great place for Authors to promote their books.
This was my first chance to hear about and read a part of the Vintage Kitchen Mystery series.
2nd . . .Look at that cover. Does that cover just not beckon.
I loved the Vintage to theme and that recipes are included. I am a sucker for recipes in books!
I enjoyed Jaymie's strong sense of character and determination. She seems to be quite the sleuth since this is book 10 in the series.
Although I didn't feel I missed anything I sure do want to go back and read the other 9.
The author kept this reader guessing with some twists and turns.
I did have a hard time keeping the characters or should I say suspects straight. Alicia's (the victim) mom and her friends from school and her deceased husband's family were hard to keep straight. But I did finally figure everyone out.
I have to say I did not like the female police detective.
I questioned along with Jaymie if her medling and coercing Jaymie to question Alicia and then tell her to stay out of the investigation was setting Jaymie and Alicia up.
I'd like to read the previous books and see how the relationship with Jaymie and the detective developed.
I have a few new titles to add to my wish list!
I was glad the Chicken A La King recipe was included and I plan to cook it this week!
I received a complimentary copy.
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