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Death by Cupcake #6
Trick or Thief
A little haunting sounds like innocent fun until a ghost plunders your stockroom.
Kristie is convinced ghosts don’t exist until food starts disappearing without a trace from the Youth Center storage. There are zero clues as to who’s been inside the building. The security guard hasn’t seen a thing, and the security tapes are mysteriously blank. When the ghost widens his hocus-pocus to include Kristie’s office, the gals of Callie’s Cakes jump in to find the culprit before Kristie can get in a whole mess of spooky trouble.
Will the gals of Callie’s Cakes expose the ghost before Kristie’s facility is destroyed?
Cupcakes not included, although recipes for all the delicious cupcakes Anna bakes are.
Kristie is convinced ghosts don’t exist until food starts disappearing without a trace from the Youth Center storage. There are zero clues as to who’s been inside the building. The security guard hasn’t seen a thing, and the security tapes are mysteriously blank. When the ghost widens his hocus-pocus to include Kristie’s office, the gals of Callie’s Cakes jump in to find the culprit before Kristie can get in a whole mess of spooky trouble.
Will the gals of Callie’s Cakes expose the ghost before Kristie’s facility is destroyed?
Cupcakes not included, although recipes for all the delicious cupcakes Anna bakes are.
99 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2021
About the author
D.E. Haggerty
191 books1,000 followersD.E. Haggerty writes funny, heartfelt small-town romances filled with quirky communities, lovable chaos, and unforgettable happily-ever-afters. Her books give readers a joyful escape into charming towns they never want to leave. Originally from the United States, she now lives in the Netherlands with her husband and far too many book ideas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
November 2, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
So, here I am, placing a cupcake laced with laxatives on the kitchen counter in the Youth Center in the hopes the thief – who is most definitely not a ghost despite what Anna believes – takes the bait.
Anna is basically the only baker at Callie’s Cakes… Although Callie will claim she helps with the baking, don’t believe her. She mostly licks the frosting off of spoons and annoys the daylights out of Anna.
Logan grunts in response. I guess that’s manspeak for okay, I understand.
“Pumpkins!” Anna shouts before running off into the pumpkin patch… Several children are clapping and giggling while chasing after her. Their parents look on concerned. I can’t blame them. It’s not every day you see an adult with orange and black tipped hair skipping through a pumpkin patch.
My Review:
This is such a fun and vibrant series of novellas, each delightfully amusing and interconnected yet capable of standing alone, but why deny yourself the pleasure of reading them all. All the major holiday periods appear to be represented in the various installments as well as witty banter, amusing humor, growly alpha men, delicious cupcake recipes, and more than a few mysterious conundrums for the three oddly matched friends to solve.
So, here I am, placing a cupcake laced with laxatives on the kitchen counter in the Youth Center in the hopes the thief – who is most definitely not a ghost despite what Anna believes – takes the bait.
Anna is basically the only baker at Callie’s Cakes… Although Callie will claim she helps with the baking, don’t believe her. She mostly licks the frosting off of spoons and annoys the daylights out of Anna.
Logan grunts in response. I guess that’s manspeak for okay, I understand.
“Pumpkins!” Anna shouts before running off into the pumpkin patch… Several children are clapping and giggling while chasing after her. Their parents look on concerned. I can’t blame them. It’s not every day you see an adult with orange and black tipped hair skipping through a pumpkin patch.
My Review:
This is such a fun and vibrant series of novellas, each delightfully amusing and interconnected yet capable of standing alone, but why deny yourself the pleasure of reading them all. All the major holiday periods appear to be represented in the various installments as well as witty banter, amusing humor, growly alpha men, delicious cupcake recipes, and more than a few mysterious conundrums for the three oddly matched friends to solve.
August 25, 2020
Spending time with the gang from the Death by Cupcake series is always entertaining, and Trick or Thief was no different. I always get such a kick out of the shenanigans that Anna, Callie, and Kristie find themselves in- it makes me wish I was their friend and could join in on the fun!
This time they're intent on tracking down the person/s, (or spirit!), causing havoc at the youth center.
Like Anna, I was kind of hoping there was something supernatural involved in what was happening at the youth center, sadly that wasn't the case. And I was kind of bummed when things came to light and we found out who really was responsible!
Somehow or another these 3 always end up, intentionally or not, deliberately or not, solving the mystery/crime, much to the dismay of their significant others. It's such a comedy of errors that things always works out for them.
It should be interesting when Callie's wedding day rolls around- the men are going to have to put the ladies in lockdown!
This time they're intent on tracking down the person/s, (or spirit!), causing havoc at the youth center.
Like Anna, I was kind of hoping there was something supernatural involved in what was happening at the youth center, sadly that wasn't the case. And I was kind of bummed when things came to light and we found out who really was responsible!
Somehow or another these 3 always end up, intentionally or not, deliberately or not, solving the mystery/crime, much to the dismay of their significant others. It's such a comedy of errors that things always works out for them.
It should be interesting when Callie's wedding day rolls around- the men are going to have to put the ladies in lockdown!
September 25, 2020
Spooky business is a foot or should I be
saying afloat!! Bread and peanut butter
have been missing from the Youth Center
storage that is run by Kristie. The security
tapes are blank for an early morning time
period and the security guards are off duty
during that time.
Kristie starts to really worry when her office
is broken into and ransacked. Her friend’s:
Callie, owner of Callie’s Cakes and Anna,
co-owner and baker extraordinaire decide
to help Kristie investigate. The three together
present a humorous Halloween time story
with Anna making plenty various types of
Halloween themed cupcake to present to
suspects to get information from them.
Well plotted, intriguing, mouthwatering
book with colorful, quirky, artfully created
characters full of shenanigans involved
in solving a complex puzzling situation.
I was able to relate to the characters. I
enjoyed the humorous nature of the three
friends while they solved a potentially
dangerous situation.
This is book # 6 in the Death by Cupcake
series. It can be read as a stand alone as
the author presents the past and present
together effortlessly.
I volunteered to read Thick or Thief. Thanks
to the Cozy Mystery Review Crew for the
opportunity. My opinion is voluntary and
my own.
Halloween Cupcake recipes included at
the end of the book. Yum...Yum!!!
saying afloat!! Bread and peanut butter
have been missing from the Youth Center
storage that is run by Kristie. The security
tapes are blank for an early morning time
period and the security guards are off duty
during that time.
Kristie starts to really worry when her office
is broken into and ransacked. Her friend’s:
Callie, owner of Callie’s Cakes and Anna,
co-owner and baker extraordinaire decide
to help Kristie investigate. The three together
present a humorous Halloween time story
with Anna making plenty various types of
Halloween themed cupcake to present to
suspects to get information from them.
Well plotted, intriguing, mouthwatering
book with colorful, quirky, artfully created
characters full of shenanigans involved
in solving a complex puzzling situation.
I was able to relate to the characters. I
enjoyed the humorous nature of the three
friends while they solved a potentially
dangerous situation.
This is book # 6 in the Death by Cupcake
series. It can be read as a stand alone as
the author presents the past and present
together effortlessly.
I volunteered to read Thick or Thief. Thanks
to the Cozy Mystery Review Crew for the
opportunity. My opinion is voluntary and
my own.
Halloween Cupcake recipes included at
the end of the book. Yum...Yum!!!
September 8, 2020
Trick or Thief is book #6 in the Death by Cupcake series by D.E. Haggerty.
This is a nice, quick read. There are 3 friends and this story is told from Kristie’s point of view. This series doesn’t have a protagonist and 2 sidekicks. Depending on the book, the lead rotates among the friends.
I like that a lot of the book focused on the Youth Center and the Halloween activities that were held for the kids. There are a lot of recipes in the back that I plan to try.
I found the way Kristie spoke about her friends to be off-putting. If this was the first book in the series that I had read, I would wonder about the friendship.
I received this book as a gift and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
This is a nice, quick read. There are 3 friends and this story is told from Kristie’s point of view. This series doesn’t have a protagonist and 2 sidekicks. Depending on the book, the lead rotates among the friends.
I like that a lot of the book focused on the Youth Center and the Halloween activities that were held for the kids. There are a lot of recipes in the back that I plan to try.
I found the way Kristie spoke about her friends to be off-putting. If this was the first book in the series that I had read, I would wonder about the friendship.
I received this book as a gift and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
October 12, 2020
Kristie doesn’t know what to make of her current dilemma. It’s a couple of weeks before Halloween and she has someone breaking into the Youth Center’s pantry in the middle of the night stealing bread and peanut butter. It can’t be a ghost because, well, ghosts aren’t real. When she confesses to her friends from Callie’s Cakes (Callie and Anna) what’s troubling her, they’re convinced it’s a ghost. Armed with spooky cupcakes, the three friends try to nab the culprit, much to the chagrin of their no-nonsense significant others (two cops and a fireman). Is it a ghost haunting the Youth Center, as Anna assumes, or is this a revenge plot aimed at Kristie?
Trick or Thief is the #1 Halloween must-read this year. Without being scary, this short cozy will have you laughing your guts out. Kristie is the most normal of the three ladies from Callie’s Cakes. She tends to keep “Lucy and Ethel” in line, well mostly. The plot is faster than a vampire biting its next victim but way more enjoyable. I adore this series and this installment is my new favorite. If you’re glum about this year’s ban on Halloween and trick or treating, Trick or Thief is just what you need to get in the Halloween spirit. Plus, there are cupcake recipes. Yum! Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Trick or Thief is the #1 Halloween must-read this year. Without being scary, this short cozy will have you laughing your guts out. Kristie is the most normal of the three ladies from Callie’s Cakes. She tends to keep “Lucy and Ethel” in line, well mostly. The plot is faster than a vampire biting its next victim but way more enjoyable. I adore this series and this installment is my new favorite. If you’re glum about this year’s ban on Halloween and trick or treating, Trick or Thief is just what you need to get in the Halloween spirit. Plus, there are cupcake recipes. Yum! Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
August 22, 2020
It is always a good time visiting with the ladies from Callie’s Cakes. Kristie is still trying to be the sane one, while Anna dives headfirst into adventure dragging Callie along for the ride.
It is Halloween and Kristie has opened her youth center and on the surface things are great. She is helping kids who would have nowhere else to go. Still, she has a mystery on her hands when the security cameras stop recording and food begins to go missing from the center’s pantry in the early hours of the morning when there is no guard onsite.
Trying to keep Anna and Callie from investigating the mystery is a lot like trying to eat only one of Anna’s spooktacular cupcakes. Kristie isn’t very good at doing either. Truth be told, she doesn’t try very hard. The clues keep coming and become even more baffling (and destructive). The ladies need to solve it before one of them gets hurt or their men ( two police detectives and a fireman) cross the line into overprotective mode.
This is a quick easy read. Humor and romance are promised and, of course, as always, they along with a fun mystery are delivered. Also included are recipes for all of Anna’s mouthwatering cupcake creations along with the opening chapter of book seven in the series due out around Valentine’s Day.
It is Halloween and Kristie has opened her youth center and on the surface things are great. She is helping kids who would have nowhere else to go. Still, she has a mystery on her hands when the security cameras stop recording and food begins to go missing from the center’s pantry in the early hours of the morning when there is no guard onsite.
Trying to keep Anna and Callie from investigating the mystery is a lot like trying to eat only one of Anna’s spooktacular cupcakes. Kristie isn’t very good at doing either. Truth be told, she doesn’t try very hard. The clues keep coming and become even more baffling (and destructive). The ladies need to solve it before one of them gets hurt or their men ( two police detectives and a fireman) cross the line into overprotective mode.
This is a quick easy read. Humor and romance are promised and, of course, as always, they along with a fun mystery are delivered. Also included are recipes for all of Anna’s mouthwatering cupcake creations along with the opening chapter of book seven in the series due out around Valentine’s Day.
August 29, 2020
Haggerty delivers a quick, fun read with Trick or Thief. Our crew is back to its usual antics in this Halloween inspired novella. Callie and Anna insert themselves into a mystery At Kristie’s youth center and of course hilarity follows. The light mystery, humor, hint of romance, and the fabulous characters kept me entertained and engaged.
September 3, 2020
I love this yummy Cozy series. This is the 3rd book I've read in this series. I missed a couple and they are on my TBR pile.
Trick Or Thief is a little different than the other two that I read because it centers around Kristie and the mystery going on at the
Youth Center she manages.
I love all the characters in this series. The series is about the shannaigans of three friends. Kristie, Callie and Anna. Anna
is the baker and the one that can't stand not sleuthing when there is a good mystery and crime a foot.
And she waste no time in getting Callie on board to help their bestie Kristie when mysterious things begin to go bump in the night at the youth center.
Callie and Anna got the nickname Lucy and Ethel
Does that give you an idea of just how fun these girls are?
The girls are helped and kept in line by their boyfriends. And I think I finally have them straight now. It's just me but I get them confused.
Kristie has the hunky Fireman boyfriend that is a bit over protective and a romantic. You'll love the end but I am not spilling it.
Anna is married to they got married in the last book on the 4th of July. I got her guy figured out because he's the one that almost didn't make it to the wedding because they thought he had something to do with the last murder. He's a cop.
And there's Callie's boyfriend whose a cop too.
If you want to keep the girls straight it's easy. Kristie runs the
youth center. Callie is planning her wedding and struggling stay out of the cupcake box. And Anna is the 'Pixie Girl' that's the name her husband gave her which describes her to a 'T'.
Anna is always hopping around with a box of cupcakes and uses
them to lure suspects and persons of interest into telling all.
I have enjoyed this series. Each book is a short fast read. Great for an evening. Even though you can pick any of the books up and get into the story I think you'll be like me and want the entire set!
I received a complimentary copy.
Trick Or Thief is a little different than the other two that I read because it centers around Kristie and the mystery going on at the
Youth Center she manages.
I love all the characters in this series. The series is about the shannaigans of three friends. Kristie, Callie and Anna. Anna
is the baker and the one that can't stand not sleuthing when there is a good mystery and crime a foot.
And she waste no time in getting Callie on board to help their bestie Kristie when mysterious things begin to go bump in the night at the youth center.
Callie and Anna got the nickname Lucy and Ethel
Does that give you an idea of just how fun these girls are?
The girls are helped and kept in line by their boyfriends. And I think I finally have them straight now. It's just me but I get them confused.
Kristie has the hunky Fireman boyfriend that is a bit over protective and a romantic. You'll love the end but I am not spilling it.
Anna is married to they got married in the last book on the 4th of July. I got her guy figured out because he's the one that almost didn't make it to the wedding because they thought he had something to do with the last murder. He's a cop.
And there's Callie's boyfriend whose a cop too.
If you want to keep the girls straight it's easy. Kristie runs the
youth center. Callie is planning her wedding and struggling stay out of the cupcake box. And Anna is the 'Pixie Girl' that's the name her husband gave her which describes her to a 'T'.
Anna is always hopping around with a box of cupcakes and uses
them to lure suspects and persons of interest into telling all.
I have enjoyed this series. Each book is a short fast read. Great for an evening. Even though you can pick any of the books up and get into the story I think you'll be like me and want the entire set!
I received a complimentary copy.
August 31, 2020
My first short read by the author and this the sixth of the series. Callie and Anna and co-owners of Callie’s Cakes. They specialize in beautiful and very tasty cupcakes and are the two best friends of Kristie who took over management of the local youth center.
Kristie likes to think she is the more sane of the three, but Callie is a also a bit on the reticent side, following Anna who tends to leap into whatever situation is confronting them at the moment and at the moment that would be the mysterious thefts at the youth center. Who would steal bread and peanut butter at 4 am? More than once.
It is approaching Halloween and Kristie has plans for the kids, but Anna and Callie are all in the investigation of the penny ante thefts. Then it starts getting more serious and Anna and Callie have to become more subtle in their plans if they are to keep their activities a secret from their police detective significant others. Kristie’s guy is a fireman and working odd hours, so she reluctantly goes with the plans of “Lucy and Ethel.”
They do manage to solve the mystery and no one gets maimed or murdered and the narrative stays light-hearted, humorous, and well-fed. Lots of cupcake recipes after the conclusion.
A fast, easy read, a promised romance, and clean mystery (no filters needed here). I received the digital download geared for a younger reader for a blog tour and these are my unbiased opinions.
Kristie likes to think she is the more sane of the three, but Callie is a also a bit on the reticent side, following Anna who tends to leap into whatever situation is confronting them at the moment and at the moment that would be the mysterious thefts at the youth center. Who would steal bread and peanut butter at 4 am? More than once.
It is approaching Halloween and Kristie has plans for the kids, but Anna and Callie are all in the investigation of the penny ante thefts. Then it starts getting more serious and Anna and Callie have to become more subtle in their plans if they are to keep their activities a secret from their police detective significant others. Kristie’s guy is a fireman and working odd hours, so she reluctantly goes with the plans of “Lucy and Ethel.”
They do manage to solve the mystery and no one gets maimed or murdered and the narrative stays light-hearted, humorous, and well-fed. Lots of cupcake recipes after the conclusion.
A fast, easy read, a promised romance, and clean mystery (no filters needed here). I received the digital download geared for a younger reader for a blog tour and these are my unbiased opinions.
December 12, 2020
Reading this author's book after a long time, and I could sink into the story. It was cute and the girls got into some fun mischief.
This was a standalone and my first book in the series. Someone was stealing bread and peanut butter from the Youth Center. And Kristie was all set to investigate with friends Callie and Anna, things get a lot messier but quite delicious with all those themed cupcakes.
What I liked
The air of Halloween
A good mystery
Friendship and camaraderie
What I didn't like
Dialogues could be sharper, some lines felt repetitive.
A wee bit of twist at the end.
Overall, at 93 pages, it was quite a fun story, could be finished within an hour. Recipes included at the end.
This was a standalone and my first book in the series. Someone was stealing bread and peanut butter from the Youth Center. And Kristie was all set to investigate with friends Callie and Anna, things get a lot messier but quite delicious with all those themed cupcakes.
What I liked
The air of Halloween
A good mystery
Friendship and camaraderie
What I didn't like
Dialogues could be sharper, some lines felt repetitive.
A wee bit of twist at the end.
Overall, at 93 pages, it was quite a fun story, could be finished within an hour. Recipes included at the end.
August 30, 2020
Are “ghost” real or not, depends on who you ask. Kristie believes the strange haunting of her security system is caused by a human but Callie and Anna aren’t so sure. This delightful mystery takes you on a journey to find the truth, at least for this case. You can’t help but get caught up in this story and you will have your own opinion that will be proven to be right or wrong.
Following the three friend and their three fellows is great. They get into and out of situations using humor and cupcakes – a great combination.
You will enjoy this book if you like light cozy mysteries that are well written and easy to read and one you can’t put down until it is finished. This is the first I have read in the series but now I need to back up to the beginning and read them all.
September 16, 2020
Trick or Thief
Trick or Thief by D.E. Haggerty was an amazing ride. This is my second book of hers that I've read in her Death by Cupcake series, and I have loved both. It really makes me want to go back and read the others. I love the three friends different personalities so much. They are such a compliment to each other. I also love how each book focuses on one of the girls, but takes time out to bring the other girls in on the mystery too. This time the book focuses on Kristie's youth center being broken into, and the hi-jinks the other girls pull her into to find out what is really going on. Is it just petty thefts, or something more sinister. It is a great book, and I recommend it to anyone who likes a little fun mixed into their mystery. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did...
Trick or Thief by D.E. Haggerty was an amazing ride. This is my second book of hers that I've read in her Death by Cupcake series, and I have loved both. It really makes me want to go back and read the others. I love the three friends different personalities so much. They are such a compliment to each other. I also love how each book focuses on one of the girls, but takes time out to bring the other girls in on the mystery too. This time the book focuses on Kristie's youth center being broken into, and the hi-jinks the other girls pull her into to find out what is really going on. Is it just petty thefts, or something more sinister. It is a great book, and I recommend it to anyone who likes a little fun mixed into their mystery. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did...
September 9, 2020
Pros: Even tho this was the first book that I have read in the series, I figured out who's who pretty quickly.
It is a quick read that had me smiling if not chuckling through out most of the story.
I couldn't put down. I read it in one sitting.
Cons: I couldn't put it down!
If you are looking for a quick Halloween themed read this if for you.
It is a quick read that had me smiling if not chuckling through out most of the story.
I couldn't put down. I read it in one sitting.
Cons: I couldn't put it down!
If you are looking for a quick Halloween themed read this if for you.
Read
August 12, 2020Teaser #2:
“But food is going missing.”
“What do you mean going missing? Like oops! Where did it go?” Anna asks.
“Exactly.”
Anna claps her hands. “Oh my cupcake. You’ve got a ghost. How exciting!”
“But food is going missing.”
“What do you mean going missing? Like oops! Where did it go?” Anna asks.
“Exactly.”
Anna claps her hands. “Oh my cupcake. You’ve got a ghost. How exciting!”
September 13, 2020
Great story
New receipies and good story. The youth center is at the center of a crime spree and they need to figure out why.
New receipies and good story. The youth center is at the center of a crime spree and they need to figure out why.
September 1, 2020
Though I’ve not read the previous books in the Death by Cupcake series, I really enjoyed this Halloween short story and felt like I already knew the characters despite it being my first time meeting them!
Halloween is my favourite holiday so I really enjoyed this holiday short story, it was quirky, funny and though there is no murder but instead a thief at the youth centre you soon realise there is more afoot than just stealing food from the pantry and something more sinister!
This was a quick holiday read that has some really tasty recipes at the end!
4 stars
Halloween is my favourite holiday so I really enjoyed this holiday short story, it was quirky, funny and though there is no murder but instead a thief at the youth centre you soon realise there is more afoot than just stealing food from the pantry and something more sinister!
This was a quick holiday read that has some really tasty recipes at the end!
4 stars
September 2, 2020
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Great Escapes Book Tours. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Trick or Thief by DE Haggerty is fun, witty, and laughing out loud at some of the things that Kristie, Anna, and Callie get themselves into in this installment.
Can Kristie figure out what is happening without involving Anna and Callie too much?
Kristie, Anna, and Callie
Kristie is our main point of view character with her best friends Anna and Callie. She is a coffee fanatic and can't start her day without a cup of coffee. Kristie owns and runs the new youth center and is proud of what she has accomplished. What I like about Kristie is that despite not wanting her friends to stick their noses into mystery cases, she can't help but tell them her problems. Another thing that I like about Kristie is that even she realizes when she's annoying or what she has said won't deter her meddling friends, especially when they are on a mission.
Anna is the co-owner and baker of Callie's Cakes. Where we have Kristie obsessed over coffee, then we have Anna, who's obsessed with cupcakes. It's pretty hilarious when these two have their things going with the coffee/cupcake stuff that they end up thinking or saying. What I like about Anna is that even though she's short, she is full of energy and likes to tackle a challenge. She is pretty hilarious when she's left to her own devices and plans.
The last one is Callie, who is the owner of Callie's Cakes and the brand of it. She also works as a professor and is stressing a bit about her upcoming wedding on Valentine's Day. I loved it when Callie and Anna got a plan going, and they don't tell Kristie, which is pretty much all the time, and she is playing catchup in the middle of their plan. Another thing that I like about Callie is that she spouts off whatever piece of the fact that she has stored in her brain about something that is being said. When she does that it in the middle of a tense situation, it's pretty funny since she says it and I can picture Callie smiling.
The Mystery
Kristie's pantry in her youth center is being robbed of its bread and peanut butter every morning at 4. She has no clue why, and then someone breaks into her office. Kristie, Anna, and Callie are on the case, which is pretty funny. These three are great when it comes to solving a mystery, and I can't wait to see what they do in the next one. And how their significant others will take it when they once again butt their noses in something that they shouldn't.
5 Stars
Trick or Thief by DE Haggerty is my first book from her, and I wish I had found her sooner. Ms. Haggerty's writing is hilarious, and I love this series. I love Kristie, Anna, and Callie. The best part is that you don't have to have read any of the first five to jump right on in with this wacky trio. Another thing that I love about this book is the chapter titles are hilarious. I am giving it five stars and recommending it as a quick Halloween read for this fall season or for whenever you want to.
Other Books in the Series
Prize: (1) Print Copy - Trick or Thief: A Humorous Culinary Cozy Mystery Short Read (Death by Cupcake) by D.E. Haggerty (U.S. Only)
Can Kristie figure out what is happening without involving Anna and Callie too much?
Kristie, Anna, and Callie
Kristie is our main point of view character with her best friends Anna and Callie. She is a coffee fanatic and can't start her day without a cup of coffee. Kristie owns and runs the new youth center and is proud of what she has accomplished. What I like about Kristie is that despite not wanting her friends to stick their noses into mystery cases, she can't help but tell them her problems. Another thing that I like about Kristie is that even she realizes when she's annoying or what she has said won't deter her meddling friends, especially when they are on a mission.
Anna is the co-owner and baker of Callie's Cakes. Where we have Kristie obsessed over coffee, then we have Anna, who's obsessed with cupcakes. It's pretty hilarious when these two have their things going with the coffee/cupcake stuff that they end up thinking or saying. What I like about Anna is that even though she's short, she is full of energy and likes to tackle a challenge. She is pretty hilarious when she's left to her own devices and plans.
The last one is Callie, who is the owner of Callie's Cakes and the brand of it. She also works as a professor and is stressing a bit about her upcoming wedding on Valentine's Day. I loved it when Callie and Anna got a plan going, and they don't tell Kristie, which is pretty much all the time, and she is playing catchup in the middle of their plan. Another thing that I like about Callie is that she spouts off whatever piece of the fact that she has stored in her brain about something that is being said. When she does that it in the middle of a tense situation, it's pretty funny since she says it and I can picture Callie smiling.
The Mystery Kristie's pantry in her youth center is being robbed of its bread and peanut butter every morning at 4. She has no clue why, and then someone breaks into her office. Kristie, Anna, and Callie are on the case, which is pretty funny. These three are great when it comes to solving a mystery, and I can't wait to see what they do in the next one. And how their significant others will take it when they once again butt their noses in something that they shouldn't.
5 Stars
Trick or Thief by DE Haggerty is my first book from her, and I wish I had found her sooner. Ms. Haggerty's writing is hilarious, and I love this series. I love Kristie, Anna, and Callie. The best part is that you don't have to have read any of the first five to jump right on in with this wacky trio. Another thing that I love about this book is the chapter titles are hilarious. I am giving it five stars and recommending it as a quick Halloween read for this fall season or for whenever you want to.
Other Books in the Series
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This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
September 28, 2020
Trick or Thief is told from the perspective of Kristie Larson, who is the owner-manager of a Youth Center, and someone is targeting the center for unknown reasons. Burglary, petty theft, egging, graffiti, and ransacking at the center leave Kristie mystified as to why someone is trying to ruin her chances of getting her grant renewed. Anna Allen and Callie Muller, who are Kristie’s close friends inject themselves into finding out who is behind these escapades by pooling together with Kristie in the use of their amateur skills gained from past inquiries into unlawful activities. Anna is of the opinion that a ghost is involved. Is it a ghost or a real person causing all the havoc? The three women are not always in agreement as to how to go about finding the guilty party, which makes for some humorous moments. With some obstacles hindering them in their efforts, will Kristie, Anna, and Callie be successful in solving the mystery?
D.E. Haggerty has written a fun and entertaining cupcake-based cozy mystery with enjoyable characters, who are each imbued with their own unique characteristics and personality traits. The amusing interactions and banter among the close-knit group of friends comprised of the three women and their romantic partners make for great chemistry and an interesting dynamic in how the characters relate to their circumstances. A number of delicious sounding Halloween-themed cupcakes are woven into the storyline, and the recipes and the chapter in which they appear are listed at the end of the book. This is the sixth book in the Death by Cupcakes series, and I look forward to the seventh installment, which is a Valentine’s Day-themed mystery.
D.E. Haggerty has written a fun and entertaining cupcake-based cozy mystery with enjoyable characters, who are each imbued with their own unique characteristics and personality traits. The amusing interactions and banter among the close-knit group of friends comprised of the three women and their romantic partners make for great chemistry and an interesting dynamic in how the characters relate to their circumstances. A number of delicious sounding Halloween-themed cupcakes are woven into the storyline, and the recipes and the chapter in which they appear are listed at the end of the book. This is the sixth book in the Death by Cupcakes series, and I look forward to the seventh installment, which is a Valentine’s Day-themed mystery.
August 31, 2020
Cute short novella. This was my first time reading this series and I wasn't totally lost, but I also wasn't immersed in the world of Callie's Cupcakes. First, I feel like they never mentioned the main character's name. I realized it was Kristie when I read the description of the book. The other characters are referred to my name so often, that I kept wondering who was this main character that that they never call by name. I also had trouble understanding the relationships between everyone beyond the straightforward explanations in the book. I think if I read the whole series, I would be more understanding of everyone's nuances and Kristie's annoyance with some of them.
The story was fast moving. I love a good halloween setting. I do like when there is more development about the town. I don't know where this took place. Also Kristie is 24! Wow she is pretty accomplished for her age. She is much younger than most of the heroines I see in mysteries. Interesting plot line and I loved to see Kristie's compassion throughout. Would have loved to know more about her relationship with Tyler.
The story was fast moving. I love a good halloween setting. I do like when there is more development about the town. I don't know where this took place. Also Kristie is 24! Wow she is pretty accomplished for her age. She is much younger than most of the heroines I see in mysteries. Interesting plot line and I loved to see Kristie's compassion throughout. Would have loved to know more about her relationship with Tyler.
September 27, 2020
This novella is the 6th book in D.E. Haggerty’s Death by Cupcake series and is the second book I have read in the series. I really enjoyed the fourth book last year and this new installment did not disappoint!
It is Halloween season and Callie and Anna are fully in the spirit with their Halloween-themed cupcakes while Kristie is planning a Halloween event at her Youth Center. It seems as if Kristie has a ghost visiting her Youth Center during the night and taking food from the pantry. Callie and Anna are quick to start investigating (with a reluctant Kristie, of course). The usual hijinks ensue, and it is so much fun to follow this trio of close friends through solving the mystery!
This was a fast read and was full of yummy cupcakes, too. A reader who has not read any books in this series before would have no problem keeping up with the characters. They are well developed in the storyline.
Overall, this is an enjoyable read and I recommend it! I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
It is Halloween season and Callie and Anna are fully in the spirit with their Halloween-themed cupcakes while Kristie is planning a Halloween event at her Youth Center. It seems as if Kristie has a ghost visiting her Youth Center during the night and taking food from the pantry. Callie and Anna are quick to start investigating (with a reluctant Kristie, of course). The usual hijinks ensue, and it is so much fun to follow this trio of close friends through solving the mystery!
This was a fast read and was full of yummy cupcakes, too. A reader who has not read any books in this series before would have no problem keeping up with the characters. They are well developed in the storyline.
Overall, this is an enjoyable read and I recommend it! I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 26, 2020
Once again, D.E. Haggerty creates a laugh out loud, fun mystery with the three best friends, Callie, Anna and Kristie. When Kristie who opened a youth center and has lots of great plans for Halloween for the kids finds things missing from her pantry every day when the guard isn't around and the cameras fail to pick up the thief she is baffled. Who is getting in and why isn't it recorded on the security cameras? When the mischief escalates to a break in into her office, she can't keep it a secret from her friends. Anna who is spontaneous and into adventure, Callie who follows Anna into adventure and Kristie who doesn't like to jump into anything but does, much to the chagrin of their significant others. With lots of strange clues and misclues, the trio fall into their usual stop at nothing solving mode. We are laughingly taken on a real roller coaster ride. Anna cracked me up a lot during this quick, can't put it down read! But I love the dynamics of all three main characters. Can't wait to see what they get into next! I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
September 28, 2020
This is the 6th book in the series, but it stands alone well. I haven’t read any of the rest of the series, but it wasn’t hard to follow what was happening. I love reading “in season,” so this very much got me in the mood for fall and Halloween. I must admit that I thought at first by the dialogue that this book would be too juvenile for me—the main characters are in their early 20s (and they speak that way) and I’m 59. In some books and writing styles, that’s inconsequential, but I was a little slow to warm up to these characters. However, I was soon engrossed in the story and caring about the characters; I ended up really liking the book. The mystery itself was a little odd and thus the resolution of it was a bit of a stretch, but I enjoyed the journey with the characters and would read more in this series. I was provided a copy of this book, but these opinions are my own.
September 28, 2020
I enjoyed this fast and fun cozy mystery that immediately captivated me and kept me totally involved in all that was happening until I read the last word. I love Kristie, Anna and Callie and "Trick or Thief" is the perfect read for this time of year. Even though this is the sixth book in the Death by Cupcake series, it is the first I have read and I had no problem reading it as a standalone. I am so intrigued by these gals that I need to read all of the books so I don't miss out on any of their fun. A great bonus is the delicious cupcake recipes. I received an advance reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
September 15, 2020
This was a very quick and simple read that I finished in one sitting.
This was my first cozy mystery that didn’t involve a death of some sort. Instead, there was a theft and a whodunnit. I enjoyed the premise and the atmosphere but overall, I found the story to be very lackluster and unexciting.
Additionally, I found the dialogue to be rather simple and juvenile at best. I thought for a brief moment that I was reading YA due to the flow of the dialogue, choppy sentences, and rather immature protagonists.
I received this as an ARC and all reviews are my own.
This was my first cozy mystery that didn’t involve a death of some sort. Instead, there was a theft and a whodunnit. I enjoyed the premise and the atmosphere but overall, I found the story to be very lackluster and unexciting.
Additionally, I found the dialogue to be rather simple and juvenile at best. I thought for a brief moment that I was reading YA due to the flow of the dialogue, choppy sentences, and rather immature protagonists.
I received this as an ARC and all reviews are my own.
September 28, 2020
“Trick or Thief” is a VERY AWESOME book, super, super funny too. :) it will be your loss if you don’t read this. The 3 main characters are the VERY BEST. If you don’t just love all 3 of them, Anna most, then we can not be friends. :) There’s been someone, or something, stealing from the youth groups pantry. Anna is on a mission to see this “ghost” that’s stealing. :) seriously people, the 3 young ladies that are the stars are the ABSOLUTE BEST!!!! I love all 3 of them, they are serious and funny all in one. They’re the BEST!!!
September 24, 2020
I found this to be a fun and fast read. I found this to be well-written and there was enough to keep me guessing. I have not read the other books in this series yet, but will be looking for them as I enjoyed this story. I found the story easy to follow, so this reads well as a stand alone.
October 8, 2020
I love the women at Callie's Cakes. When Kristie notices food missing from the youth center, Anna and Callie immediately start investigating. They were sure a ghost was taking the food. Kristie is wasting her time trying to get them to back off, so she joins in the hunt. They have their work cut out for them though. The thefts happened in the middle of the night when there wasn't a guard on duty. Then they found out the security cameras were off at the time. I liked watching these ladies investigate without letting their boyfriends know what they were doing. So funny.
The hardest part of reading this book was hearing about all the cupcakes. They sounded so good, I wanted one - or three. Thank goodness there were recipes at the end of the book.
This is a quick mystery that you won't want to miss. It is humourous with light romance and wonderful characters.
I received a complimentary copy of Trick or Thief that I am voluntarily reviewing.
The hardest part of reading this book was hearing about all the cupcakes. They sounded so good, I wanted one - or three. Thank goodness there were recipes at the end of the book.
This is a quick mystery that you won't want to miss. It is humourous with light romance and wonderful characters.
I received a complimentary copy of Trick or Thief that I am voluntarily reviewing.
September 6, 2020
I've wanted to read for D. E. Haggerty for some time. She writes cozy mystery and I've been unable to get on her book tours. Until now.
Trick or Thief is the sixth installment in The Death by Cupcake series and it's my first read for Haggerty and the series.
I was excited by this book but sadly it put me off reading Haggerty's other books.
Trick or Thief is narrated in the first person perspective of Kristie, a woman who keeps mentioning how her age is an obstacle against society but who only mentions that she's 24 at 60% of the book.
Trick or Thief is a short read, at about 120 pages, but I struggled to finish and considered not finishing it all but only plowed further to see if the mystery will make it up for me.
It didn't.
I must say that I'm surprised that the sleuths in this cozy mystery are the supporting characters, Anna and Callie. They are also the fun characters. The narrator and main character Kristie is obnoxious to the bone.
I couldn't stand her.
And by the way, the mystery only solved itself in the end. Kristie was literally standing in the way of getting the mystery moving and the trio weren't the ones who solved the mystery! Imagine that!
There was some light humor in Trick or Thief like when Kristie first discovers the thefts going on at her Youth Center. Anna argues that the first suspect, a security guard, might be the thief.
“Why would a security guard whom I pay a decent salary steal white bread and no-name peanut butter?"
"Maybe he has a gambling addiction," Anna claps. "Or maybe he has a lover he doesn't want his wife to find out about."
"And he feeds her peanut butter sandwiches?"
One thing I did LIKE about Trick or Thief was Haggerty keeping me wondering if there really was a ghost.
That said, I found Kristie's tone to be annoying throughout. Her boyfriend may be sweet and romantic but I felt like the whole story was written in a childish way. The dialogue was childish too (especially between Tyler and Kristie).
My favorite character was Anna. She's an adult who is a child at heart. She's funny, energetic, and downright cute.
Overall, I didn't like Trick or Thief as much as I had expected.
Overall rating: 1 star.
Trick or Thief is the sixth installment in The Death by Cupcake series and it's my first read for Haggerty and the series.
I was excited by this book but sadly it put me off reading Haggerty's other books.
Trick or Thief is narrated in the first person perspective of Kristie, a woman who keeps mentioning how her age is an obstacle against society but who only mentions that she's 24 at 60% of the book.
Trick or Thief is a short read, at about 120 pages, but I struggled to finish and considered not finishing it all but only plowed further to see if the mystery will make it up for me.
It didn't.
I must say that I'm surprised that the sleuths in this cozy mystery are the supporting characters, Anna and Callie. They are also the fun characters. The narrator and main character Kristie is obnoxious to the bone.
I couldn't stand her.
And by the way, the mystery only solved itself in the end. Kristie was literally standing in the way of getting the mystery moving and the trio weren't the ones who solved the mystery! Imagine that!
There was some light humor in Trick or Thief like when Kristie first discovers the thefts going on at her Youth Center. Anna argues that the first suspect, a security guard, might be the thief.
“Why would a security guard whom I pay a decent salary steal white bread and no-name peanut butter?"
"Maybe he has a gambling addiction," Anna claps. "Or maybe he has a lover he doesn't want his wife to find out about."
"And he feeds her peanut butter sandwiches?"
One thing I did LIKE about Trick or Thief was Haggerty keeping me wondering if there really was a ghost.
That said, I found Kristie's tone to be annoying throughout. Her boyfriend may be sweet and romantic but I felt like the whole story was written in a childish way. The dialogue was childish too (especially between Tyler and Kristie).
My favorite character was Anna. She's an adult who is a child at heart. She's funny, energetic, and downright cute.
Overall, I didn't like Trick or Thief as much as I had expected.
Overall rating: 1 star.
October 24, 2020
4.6 stars for Trick or Thief definitely cute and with recipes!!
Of course if I could bake, I wouldn't need to get my jollies reading cute cozy mysteries just to drool over the recipes.
Cute cozy mystery with Halloween a week away!! This story has cute costumes, haunted house and pumpkin shopping. Don't miss it!!
Of course if I could bake, I wouldn't need to get my jollies reading cute cozy mysteries just to drool over the recipes.
Cute cozy mystery with Halloween a week away!! This story has cute costumes, haunted house and pumpkin shopping. Don't miss it!!
October 26, 2020
A nice Hallowe'en mystery.
I like Kristie and her friends. They search for the culprit who is stealing food from the Youth Center Kristie runs. Kristie also discovers files missing from the center. This is a light and humorous mystery, and a fun read. Recipes for all the cupcakes in the story are included ar the end.
I like Kristie and her friends. They search for the culprit who is stealing food from the Youth Center Kristie runs. Kristie also discovers files missing from the center. This is a light and humorous mystery, and a fun read. Recipes for all the cupcakes in the story are included ar the end.
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