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Cupcake Catering Mystery #5
Buttercream Betrayal
Intent on getting their two mischievous dogs under control, Emory Martinez and her half sister, Vannie, join a group dog training program led by Shawn Parker. With a graduation certificate just within grasp and a party to celebrate their hard-won achievements, what could go wrong? For starters, their two dogs have decided to wreak havoc during the party and tempers flare. It turns out not everyone is pleased with the dog trainer and his mother, the condo association president. Whispers of the mother and son’s misbehavior, or worse, fly amongst the barks, whines, and growls of the canines.
When Emory finds the body of Mrs. Parker amidst an explosive situation, it becomes apparent there is more truth to the whispers instead of just gossip. Could one of the canine-loving participants be responsible? Or an outsider who hated her heavy-handed rule over the condo homeowners? Emory, Vannie, and octogenarian Tillie must sift through the clues to find out who has been betrayed and who has decided to take justice into their own hands.
Recipes included!
When Emory finds the body of Mrs. Parker amidst an explosive situation, it becomes apparent there is more truth to the whispers instead of just gossip. Could one of the canine-loving participants be responsible? Or an outsider who hated her heavy-handed rule over the condo homeowners? Emory, Vannie, and octogenarian Tillie must sift through the clues to find out who has been betrayed and who has decided to take justice into their own hands.
Recipes included!
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 13, 2022
20 people are currently reading
181 people want to read
About the author
Kim Davis
13 books325 followersKim Davis also writes as author K.A. Davis.
Kim Davis lives in Southern California with her husband and mini Goldendoodle, Missy. When she's not spending time with her granddaughters or chasing the puppy around, she can be found either writing on her next book, or working on her blog, Cinnamon, Sugar, and a Little Bit of Murder, or in the kitchen baking up yummy treats to share.
She also writes the Cupcake Catering cozy mystery series, the Aromatherapy Apothecary Mystery series, The Board Game Chronicles middle grade series, and a suspense novel, A Game of Deceit, written under K. A. Davis, along with several children’s nature articles in a variety of magazines.
Kim Davis is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.
Kim Davis lives in Southern California with her husband and mini Goldendoodle, Missy. When she's not spending time with her granddaughters or chasing the puppy around, she can be found either writing on her next book, or working on her blog, Cinnamon, Sugar, and a Little Bit of Murder, or in the kitchen baking up yummy treats to share.
She also writes the Cupcake Catering cozy mystery series, the Aromatherapy Apothecary Mystery series, The Board Game Chronicles middle grade series, and a suspense novel, A Game of Deceit, written under K. A. Davis, along with several children’s nature articles in a variety of magazines.
Kim Davis is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
May 8, 2025
Buttercream Betrayal is the 5th book in the Cupcake Catering Mysteries written by Kim Davis, a series I've read since the beginning along with the first in the author's new apothecary one too. The story is set on the West Coast and focuses on a cupcake baker, Emory Martinez, who provides desserts for a wide range of customers as well as partners with her sister who runs a food service to cater local events. Emory also serves as the accountant to a wealthy businessman, whose son just happens to be her boyfriend and whose elderly mother just happens to be a marvelously brilliant sidekick when Emory finds herself solving local homicides. Toss in another half-sister and a gay best friend who recently came back in her life, the supporting cast in this series is hilarious and chic. Love seeing the camaraderie among this crowd, and when the mystery is as solid as the president of a condo board who had dozens of enemies turning up dead, you know it will be top notch. Davis outdoes herself in this latest caper, including side stories on puppy mills, blackmail, money laundering, theft, and secret alliances. I thoroughly enjoyed this latest episode in the lives of a charming and funny cast, and now I am eager to find out what happens in the next one. On top of all the drama, the sheer volume of desserts and recipes kept my interest and hunger growing... but at least there are over 20 recipes at the end to give readers a chance to create their own delectable creations. Nice job!
September 6, 2022
A cozy mystery to savor! Emory Martinez is one of my favorite cozy characters. I like that she’s a strong protagonist and doesn’t back down easily from a challenge. Much to her dismay, Emory has a reputation as a ‘murder magnet,’ and soon becomes involved in a suspicious death in “Buttercream Betrayal” after her dog, Piper, and dog pal, Missy, flunk a dog training course. The murder mystery is top-notch and very absorbing as Emory tracks down a deceitful puppy mill owner who may also be an embezzler. The perpetrator used a method they hoped would conceal their crime that I’ve never read in a story before so that added to the great plotting by Author Davis.
This series features one of my favorite casts of likable, ‘I know I’d enjoy being friends with them’ characters. I really like Tillie who despite her obvious wealth and privileged lifestyle can be so down-to-earth and ready to rumble at a moments notice and has a very sharp mind for her senior age. I also enjoy the fact that Emory and her boyfriend, Brian are taking their time in their romantic relationship because I often see just the opposite in cozies. The mystery is strong and evolves into several surprise reveals. Skillful plotting led me on several false trails! The author knows what cozy readers like in their stories as evidenced by the playful dogs and cute kitten sidekicks that sweeten the character’s lives. Speaking of sweet, of course, the delicious cupcakes that Emory bakes and designs are always spectacularly described and I could devour every morsel of one! Author Kim Davis also provides a generous number of delicious recipes for readers after the story.
This cozy series quickly became one of my favorites, and I look forward to each new release. I highly recommend to cozy readers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This series features one of my favorite casts of likable, ‘I know I’d enjoy being friends with them’ characters. I really like Tillie who despite her obvious wealth and privileged lifestyle can be so down-to-earth and ready to rumble at a moments notice and has a very sharp mind for her senior age. I also enjoy the fact that Emory and her boyfriend, Brian are taking their time in their romantic relationship because I often see just the opposite in cozies. The mystery is strong and evolves into several surprise reveals. Skillful plotting led me on several false trails! The author knows what cozy readers like in their stories as evidenced by the playful dogs and cute kitten sidekicks that sweeten the character’s lives. Speaking of sweet, of course, the delicious cupcakes that Emory bakes and designs are always spectacularly described and I could devour every morsel of one! Author Kim Davis also provides a generous number of delicious recipes for readers after the story.
This cozy series quickly became one of my favorites, and I look forward to each new release. I highly recommend to cozy readers.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 13, 2025
This is a Cozy Mystery, and this is the third book in the Cupcake Catering Mystery series. I have read and reviewed the other books in this series before reading this book, but I do feel that you can read this book as a standalone without any problems. I do feel that you get a better connection with the characters if you read the other books. I really love the characters in this book, and I love seeing the change in the main character for the first book and this book. The dogs in this book is just everything, and I love them so much. The mystery in this book was really good, and I did not see the ending happening how it did. Normally, Cozy mysteries do not have me saying wow I did not see that coming, but this book got me. Love it and I love this series. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher or author (Kim Davis) via Booksirens, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
September 16, 2022
In an attempt to train her woefully misbehaving dogs, Emory Martinez has signed them up for a dog obedience class run by Shawn Parker. The class has gotten rave reviews online, but Emory finds that it has done little for her two dogs, as evidenced by their misbehavior at the graduation potluck. It’s also at this potluck that Emory begins to hear gripes and grumblings not only about Shawn but his mother, Eloise, who is President of the condo association where most of Emory’s fellow students live. A few hours later, Emory stumbles over the dead body of Eloise in the condo’s community center. With the rumors that Emory has heard, can she sort out who killed Eloise?
I enjoy this series, so it was wonderful to see what Emory and the rest of the cast is up to. Once again, they were a delight to spend time with. The suspects could have been a little stronger, but they worked for their role in the story. The pacing of the plot could have been a little better as well, but it did keep me engaged as I was reading. I also enjoy the Southern California setting of the stories. The book uses its September setting to introduce lots of apple themed treats, and the recipes at the end made me drool. By necessity, this book spoils some past events, so if you want to read them unspoiled, I recommend you go back to the beginning. As a fan of the series, that would be my recommendation anyway. Fans will be anxious to dive into this book, and they’ll be well rewarded.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
I enjoy this series, so it was wonderful to see what Emory and the rest of the cast is up to. Once again, they were a delight to spend time with. The suspects could have been a little stronger, but they worked for their role in the story. The pacing of the plot could have been a little better as well, but it did keep me engaged as I was reading. I also enjoy the Southern California setting of the stories. The book uses its September setting to introduce lots of apple themed treats, and the recipes at the end made me drool. By necessity, this book spoils some past events, so if you want to read them unspoiled, I recommend you go back to the beginning. As a fan of the series, that would be my recommendation anyway. Fans will be anxious to dive into this book, and they’ll be well rewarded.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
September 17, 2022
Book 5. This series is with Emory, her twin sister Carrie, her half sis Vannie. Emory caters with her sis Carrie most of the time making cupcakes with the help of her sis Vannie She also gets played from her boyfriend Brian's father of taking care of bills and such and hanging out with Brian grandma Tilly. Tilly is capable on her own but Brian and dad thinks she starting to get dementia. Emory and sis Vannie had been going to a training session for their 2 dogs Missy and Piper. But they found that the instructor Shawn and his mom Eloise were incompetent. They had not helped their dogs or any others at all. So Emory starts talking to some of the clients. Cheryl was a secretary for Eloise and she told Emory and her sis some very shady things about Shawn. And one time her son Kai was involved and got 5years in prison while Shawn went Scot free. Well anyways Emory had to go back to the clubhouse ( where they were at with dogs) she left some plates and such for her mermaid cupcakes ( that she was making 100 for a little girl birthday party) when she got there no-one was there but then she found a pair of stilettos stretched out with feet inside. And she knew who it was. There even was gas stove on with no flames so the fumes were strong. So she went out fast and called police. When Detective Nathan Hawkins came he recognized her as her ex husband wife The Murder Magnet ( he called her) but Nathan really wanted to talk to some suspects while baking cupcakes and giving them to get them talking. And after awhile there was another murder. Love these series. The plots are always great. Recommend reading these cool series
October 8, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Cupcake baker extraordinaire Emory Martinez keeps herself busy with her own clients, helps her sister with her catering business, is a companion to her landlord Tillie, and works for Tillie’s son to keep affairs in order when he is out of town. She is also becoming quite the amateur sleuth usually with Tillie by her side.
In this fifth installment, Emory and her half-sister Vannie enroll Emory’s dogs, Piper and Missy in a dog training class. They made it through all the sessions and are ready to celebrate with the entire group when the dog’s mischievous nature cannot be contained and they cause a bit of ruckus. The instructor gets so upset he declares Piper and Missy had failed the class and his mother, condo association president is livid and asks Emory, Vannie, and the naughty pups to leave.
It is then Emory learns of the questionable behavior of the dog trainer and his mother, but she is still surprised when she returns and finds one of them dead.
So with Tillie by her side and help from family and friends, she tries to find the depth of their misdeeds while trying to corner the killer.
I love this series so much!
It is the extraordinary cast of characters that Ms. Davis has created that keeps me coming back for each new story. The relationships are realistic, and genuine, and continue to grow. New characters are introduced and are accepted in the group that truly is one big family. I love the big family dinners and the way everyone pulls together in some pretty stressful situations. Tillie continues to be my favorite character and I firmly believe everyone needs a Tillie in their lives.
The mystery is complex with a plethora of suspects. It is so well written and plotted. With subplots dealing with puppy mills, money laundering, and blackmail the story goes off in many directions as Emory, Tillie and the rest of the group try to make everything they are learning go together to make sense to lead them to a killer without getting themselves killed in the process. I was glued to the pages each step along the way. It was definitely not a clear-cut path. Ms. Davis set everything up perfectly to keep her readers on their toes. She also has an expert hand with humor because this cast is fun-loving and sometimes just plain funny.
Of course, there are cupcakes and other delicious food mentioned/described throughout the book and the author includes many recipes at the end of the story to tickle our taste buds. I would love to get together with the characters in this story just for the desserts and dinners.
You will find Buttercream Betrayal on my Best Reads List for 2022. The author continues to top herself. I am invested in these characters and each visit ends too soon. Just one more cupcake, please.
Every story in this series is wonderful. I recommend reading them in order but each can be read on its own. This is a series that should not be missed. Cozy mystery lovers will be delighted with each and every story!
Cupcake baker extraordinaire Emory Martinez keeps herself busy with her own clients, helps her sister with her catering business, is a companion to her landlord Tillie, and works for Tillie’s son to keep affairs in order when he is out of town. She is also becoming quite the amateur sleuth usually with Tillie by her side.
In this fifth installment, Emory and her half-sister Vannie enroll Emory’s dogs, Piper and Missy in a dog training class. They made it through all the sessions and are ready to celebrate with the entire group when the dog’s mischievous nature cannot be contained and they cause a bit of ruckus. The instructor gets so upset he declares Piper and Missy had failed the class and his mother, condo association president is livid and asks Emory, Vannie, and the naughty pups to leave.
It is then Emory learns of the questionable behavior of the dog trainer and his mother, but she is still surprised when she returns and finds one of them dead.
So with Tillie by her side and help from family and friends, she tries to find the depth of their misdeeds while trying to corner the killer.
I love this series so much!
It is the extraordinary cast of characters that Ms. Davis has created that keeps me coming back for each new story. The relationships are realistic, and genuine, and continue to grow. New characters are introduced and are accepted in the group that truly is one big family. I love the big family dinners and the way everyone pulls together in some pretty stressful situations. Tillie continues to be my favorite character and I firmly believe everyone needs a Tillie in their lives.
The mystery is complex with a plethora of suspects. It is so well written and plotted. With subplots dealing with puppy mills, money laundering, and blackmail the story goes off in many directions as Emory, Tillie and the rest of the group try to make everything they are learning go together to make sense to lead them to a killer without getting themselves killed in the process. I was glued to the pages each step along the way. It was definitely not a clear-cut path. Ms. Davis set everything up perfectly to keep her readers on their toes. She also has an expert hand with humor because this cast is fun-loving and sometimes just plain funny.
Of course, there are cupcakes and other delicious food mentioned/described throughout the book and the author includes many recipes at the end of the story to tickle our taste buds. I would love to get together with the characters in this story just for the desserts and dinners.
You will find Buttercream Betrayal on my Best Reads List for 2022. The author continues to top herself. I am invested in these characters and each visit ends too soon. Just one more cupcake, please.
Every story in this series is wonderful. I recommend reading them in order but each can be read on its own. This is a series that should not be missed. Cozy mystery lovers will be delighted with each and every story!
September 20, 2022
I’ve been reading the Cupcake Catering Mystery series since book one, and my craving for cupcakes just keeps getting stronger lol. Another thing that gets stronger is my appreciation for Emory, our protagonist. I wasn’t a huge fan of hers in the first book, but I was so charmed by the author’s writing style and the premise of the series that I grabbed book two when it released and I’m glad I did … because I became a Emory fan after all. She’s definitely a character I would want to hang out with in real life, and it’s not just because she makes such delicious cupcakes (though, of course, that doesn’t hurt haha)
In Buttercream Betrayal, we see right away – in the first few pages – that Emory & her half-sister Vannie’s attempts at taking dog training classes with their bighearted-but-slightly-rambunctious dogs Piper and Missy have not been successful. We also see right away that this is likely the fault of the trainer, not the sisters or their sweet dogs. Soon, however, dog training becomes the least of their problems when the trainer’s contentious mother is murdered and of course poor Emory discovers the body. Rumors accusing the trainer & his mother of blackmail, embezzling, puppy mills (so awful!) and an almost mafia-esque hold on people swirl, adding depth to the murder plot and to the plausible suspects. We’ve seen several detectives in this series, and the one assigned to this case is (I think) my favorite so far! I really liked Detective Hawkins and I hope we see him again.
Bottom Line: One of my favorite things about this series (besides the yummy cupcakes) has always been Emory’s dog Piper – now also joined by Tillie’s rescue Missy – and in Buttercream Betrayal the dogs are front and center. Not to worry though, we still get to hang out with Emory & her tight circle of family & friends who make a delightful ensemble cast. The mystery was, as always, cleverly crafted and surprised me more than once. As a past rescue dog owner, I also appreciated how the author used the mystery plot to bring awareness to the horrible problem of puppy mills. Grab a cupcake for yourself, a treat or two for your furbabies and curl up with Buttercream Betrayal by Kim Davis!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
In Buttercream Betrayal, we see right away – in the first few pages – that Emory & her half-sister Vannie’s attempts at taking dog training classes with their bighearted-but-slightly-rambunctious dogs Piper and Missy have not been successful. We also see right away that this is likely the fault of the trainer, not the sisters or their sweet dogs. Soon, however, dog training becomes the least of their problems when the trainer’s contentious mother is murdered and of course poor Emory discovers the body. Rumors accusing the trainer & his mother of blackmail, embezzling, puppy mills (so awful!) and an almost mafia-esque hold on people swirl, adding depth to the murder plot and to the plausible suspects. We’ve seen several detectives in this series, and the one assigned to this case is (I think) my favorite so far! I really liked Detective Hawkins and I hope we see him again.
Bottom Line: One of my favorite things about this series (besides the yummy cupcakes) has always been Emory’s dog Piper – now also joined by Tillie’s rescue Missy – and in Buttercream Betrayal the dogs are front and center. Not to worry though, we still get to hang out with Emory & her tight circle of family & friends who make a delightful ensemble cast. The mystery was, as always, cleverly crafted and surprised me more than once. As a past rescue dog owner, I also appreciated how the author used the mystery plot to bring awareness to the horrible problem of puppy mills. Grab a cupcake for yourself, a treat or two for your furbabies and curl up with Buttercream Betrayal by Kim Davis!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
September 16, 2022
This series brings together a few of my favorite things - dogs and cupcakes!
I really enjoy this series and am amazed that Emory manages to survive all of the situations she finds herself in, thanks to those that kinda push her to investigate. Her ex calls her a murder magnet, but she can't help that she keeps tripping over dead bodies. Definitely not her intention. But her ability to put people at ease, thanks to her bubbly personality and the cupcakes she bakes, helps her uncover the killer.
This mystery addresses puppy mills and the horror that some dogs endure if not raised by an ethical breeder. However, Emory and the gang are trying to uncover a particular unscrupulous breeder that has sold dogs with health issues. This doesn't come without a price, not one but two dead bodies, including the breeder.
I have to admit that I wasn't quite sure who to suspect as the killer in this book. There weren't a lot of clues or hints to point me in any one direction. There were some characters that seemed to be acting strangely, but there were good excuses for that behavior. So when the killer revealed themself, I was taken by surprise especially considering how it was done.
Part of what I also enjoy about this series is the sense of family between all of the characters. They all chip in and help wherever they can to make life easier for one another. Tillie is still a hoot and is not afraid of a little action to spice up her life.
I won't spoil the ending, but I like how it moves Emory forward in her love life. You'll just have to read the book to find out what exactly.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series, and we give this one 5 paws up.
I really enjoy this series and am amazed that Emory manages to survive all of the situations she finds herself in, thanks to those that kinda push her to investigate. Her ex calls her a murder magnet, but she can't help that she keeps tripping over dead bodies. Definitely not her intention. But her ability to put people at ease, thanks to her bubbly personality and the cupcakes she bakes, helps her uncover the killer.
This mystery addresses puppy mills and the horror that some dogs endure if not raised by an ethical breeder. However, Emory and the gang are trying to uncover a particular unscrupulous breeder that has sold dogs with health issues. This doesn't come without a price, not one but two dead bodies, including the breeder.
I have to admit that I wasn't quite sure who to suspect as the killer in this book. There weren't a lot of clues or hints to point me in any one direction. There were some characters that seemed to be acting strangely, but there were good excuses for that behavior. So when the killer revealed themself, I was taken by surprise especially considering how it was done.
Part of what I also enjoy about this series is the sense of family between all of the characters. They all chip in and help wherever they can to make life easier for one another. Tillie is still a hoot and is not afraid of a little action to spice up her life.
I won't spoil the ending, but I like how it moves Emory forward in her love life. You'll just have to read the book to find out what exactly.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series, and we give this one 5 paws up.
September 9, 2022
I’ve read the first three books in Cupcake Catering Mysteries by Kim Davis, and although I have book four on my Kindle, for some reason I missed reading it… I’ll have to remedy that soon!
A lot must have happened in book four because when I was reading Buttercream Betrayal there were some new characters, but Davis is such an excellent writer that I wasn’t lost at all. So if you do pick up book five without having read the previous ones, you should be fine, although I highly recommend you start with book one, Sprinkles of Suspicion.
Davis once again shines with her well developed characters that always make me feel like I’m coming back to visit friends. Tillie is a rich, elderly lady that is still spry and might be one of my favorite characters. I am also enjoying how Davis is handling the romance between Emory and her chef boyfriend, Brian. They are going slow and I’m interested to see if this will continue or if a new man might be in her future…
Besides coming back to this series because of the characters, I always look forward to the food descriptions throughout the story and the recipes at the end of the book. Apple picking season will be happening soon in Wisconsin and I’m excited to try some of the recipes out. And those mermaid cupcakes at a new client’s house sounded amazing.
As for the mystery, this book is full of action along with blackmail, puppy mills, and money laundering. There are several red herrings that lead to numerous surprises along the way.
Another great book in the Cupcake Catering Mysteries and I’m looking forward to book six!
A lot must have happened in book four because when I was reading Buttercream Betrayal there were some new characters, but Davis is such an excellent writer that I wasn’t lost at all. So if you do pick up book five without having read the previous ones, you should be fine, although I highly recommend you start with book one, Sprinkles of Suspicion.
Davis once again shines with her well developed characters that always make me feel like I’m coming back to visit friends. Tillie is a rich, elderly lady that is still spry and might be one of my favorite characters. I am also enjoying how Davis is handling the romance between Emory and her chef boyfriend, Brian. They are going slow and I’m interested to see if this will continue or if a new man might be in her future…
Besides coming back to this series because of the characters, I always look forward to the food descriptions throughout the story and the recipes at the end of the book. Apple picking season will be happening soon in Wisconsin and I’m excited to try some of the recipes out. And those mermaid cupcakes at a new client’s house sounded amazing.
As for the mystery, this book is full of action along with blackmail, puppy mills, and money laundering. There are several red herrings that lead to numerous surprises along the way.
Another great book in the Cupcake Catering Mysteries and I’m looking forward to book six!
September 18, 2022
Buttercream Betrayal Earns 5/5 Doggy Biscuits…Karmic Cozy Gem!
Not every party goes off without a hitch. For example, Emory Martinez’s fur-buddies were set to receive their obedience school certificates, but Missy and Piper seem to have forgotten all their training, raced out of the clubhouse, and jumped into the condo’s community pool, but, of course, not before they caused Eloise Parker’s prize winning apple pie to crash to the floor. She is furious to see the mess, and as the president of the condo association, she insists Em take her dogs and leave immediately. The condo V.P., who arranged the gathering, is unsuccessful to change the situation, until Vannie, Emory’s half sister, mentions posting a 1-star rating for the obedient school, owned by Eloise’s son Shawn. Attitudes suddenly change, but the afternoon is still awkward. Emory hears outrageous stories about Shawn’s questionable business practices, rumors of past illegal activites, and Eloise’s intimidating manner coercing condo residents to adopt dog’s from Shawn. Several complain about receiving dogs less than promised or having serious health issues. So, what does Emory tell the cops when she finds Eloise dead? And how much trouble is sent her way when karma reveals a second murder. It’s deliciously fun!
Kim Davis sweeten up the fifth book in her Cupcake Caterer Mystery with talk of buttercream, apples, chai tea, and sweet karmic justice. She powerfully addresses the seriousness of “puppy mills” and animal abuse including some entertaining comeuppances and creative entanglements for Emory and her friends and family. Greed. Abuse. Revenge. Peril is inevitable, as Emory makes a shocking revelation! Whew! The writing is very entertaining, seamlessly incorporating a wide range of descriptions of characters, residences, cupcake designs and loads of food talk, ups and downs of catering, and how to remedy a hot jalapeño. There’re endearing family dynamics, multi-generational perspectives, and a slow simmering romance. Readers, however, never lose track of the multiple murder mystery. Definitely a favorite series!
Enjoy Kim’s easy-to-follow recipes, too, that were key in the food talk and illustrate well the adage “An Apple a Day…” keeps something at bay: Golden Apple Cocktail Cupcakes and Golden Apple Cocktail, Apple Pie-Filled Cupcakes, Apple Oatmeal Cookies, Caramel Apple Pie Bars, Maple-Glazed Apple Blondies, Cinnamon-Apple Fritter Bread, Apple Bundt Cake, Cinnamon-Apple Coffee Cake with Streusel, Salted-Caramel Cookies, Slow-Cooker Apple Cider Meatballs, Apple Sausage Tortellini, and for the pup, Apple-Pumpkin Dog Treats.
Not every party goes off without a hitch. For example, Emory Martinez’s fur-buddies were set to receive their obedience school certificates, but Missy and Piper seem to have forgotten all their training, raced out of the clubhouse, and jumped into the condo’s community pool, but, of course, not before they caused Eloise Parker’s prize winning apple pie to crash to the floor. She is furious to see the mess, and as the president of the condo association, she insists Em take her dogs and leave immediately. The condo V.P., who arranged the gathering, is unsuccessful to change the situation, until Vannie, Emory’s half sister, mentions posting a 1-star rating for the obedient school, owned by Eloise’s son Shawn. Attitudes suddenly change, but the afternoon is still awkward. Emory hears outrageous stories about Shawn’s questionable business practices, rumors of past illegal activites, and Eloise’s intimidating manner coercing condo residents to adopt dog’s from Shawn. Several complain about receiving dogs less than promised or having serious health issues. So, what does Emory tell the cops when she finds Eloise dead? And how much trouble is sent her way when karma reveals a second murder. It’s deliciously fun!
Kim Davis sweeten up the fifth book in her Cupcake Caterer Mystery with talk of buttercream, apples, chai tea, and sweet karmic justice. She powerfully addresses the seriousness of “puppy mills” and animal abuse including some entertaining comeuppances and creative entanglements for Emory and her friends and family. Greed. Abuse. Revenge. Peril is inevitable, as Emory makes a shocking revelation! Whew! The writing is very entertaining, seamlessly incorporating a wide range of descriptions of characters, residences, cupcake designs and loads of food talk, ups and downs of catering, and how to remedy a hot jalapeño. There’re endearing family dynamics, multi-generational perspectives, and a slow simmering romance. Readers, however, never lose track of the multiple murder mystery. Definitely a favorite series!
Enjoy Kim’s easy-to-follow recipes, too, that were key in the food talk and illustrate well the adage “An Apple a Day…” keeps something at bay: Golden Apple Cocktail Cupcakes and Golden Apple Cocktail, Apple Pie-Filled Cupcakes, Apple Oatmeal Cookies, Caramel Apple Pie Bars, Maple-Glazed Apple Blondies, Cinnamon-Apple Fritter Bread, Apple Bundt Cake, Cinnamon-Apple Coffee Cake with Streusel, Salted-Caramel Cookies, Slow-Cooker Apple Cider Meatballs, Apple Sausage Tortellini, and for the pup, Apple-Pumpkin Dog Treats.
September 13, 2022
Emory Martinez and her half sister Vannie join a dog training programme led by Shawn Parker with graduation certificate and celebration at the Clubhouse. Her two dogs Missy and Piper caused a disturbance to make Mrs Eloise Parker nasty to them. Emory returned to the club to recover her platters and finds the body of Mrs Parker amidst a explosive situation her face smeared with butter cream and a cupcake stuffed in her mouth. The trainer Shawn had many people not happy with his dealings. Detective Hawkins wants her help.Emory,Vannie and octogenarian Tilly must go through all the clues to find out who had wanted justice and taken the law into their hands. Cheryl Vice President of the association had issues with Shawn and Eloise over her son been sent to prison. The book is very exciting and hard to put down. A lot of humor too. A great and exciting read. I received this book free and I leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.
May 15, 2023
Buttercream Betrayal is Book 5 of the Cupcake Catering Mystery series written by Kim Davis. This is a series I've read with since the beginning along with all the characters and had grown to love and adore them all. My favorite is Tillie. I love her spunky nature. All the characters though are very noteworthy though and loaded with personality. Davis outdoes herself in this latest villain, including side stories on puppy mills, blackmail, money laundering, theft, and secret alliances. I thoroughly enjoyed this latest episode in the lives of a charming and funny cast, and now I am eager to find out what happens in the next one. On top of all the drama, the sheer volume of desserts and recipes kept my interest and hunger growing... but at least there are over twenty recipes at the end to give readers a chance to create their own delectable creations. Simply put I love it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 12, 2022
Buttercream Betrayal is Book 5 in the Cupcake Catering Mystery by Kim Davis. I really enjoy this series. Emory and her active dogs, Piper and Missy, are great characters with incredible supporting characters. I found that the murder mystery was interesting and the author slowly sprinkled the clues and I had a hard time putting the book down! I hope that Kim Davis writes Book 6 because I am not ready for the series to end. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
September 12, 2022
Sweet treats and murder will have you reading until the end. Lots of twists as you follow the clues. The characters will warm your heart.
October 13, 2022
Another fabulous cozy mystery from Kim Davis! Like the other books Emory finds herself in a bit of trouble when she finds another dead body.
It was so nice to meet up with our regular set of characters and see what they were up to. Along with our regulars we met a few new ones. That I’ll just say definitely rubbed me the wrong way.
The story flowed so easily and kept my attention the entire time. I was thrown off a few times by who I thought the killer was.
Kim Davis has such descriptive writing especially when she talks about the desserts Emory is making.
This has been such a fun series and I highly suggest you grab it if you like cozy mysteries.
I received and advanced copy for free, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
It was so nice to meet up with our regular set of characters and see what they were up to. Along with our regulars we met a few new ones. That I’ll just say definitely rubbed me the wrong way.
The story flowed so easily and kept my attention the entire time. I was thrown off a few times by who I thought the killer was.
Kim Davis has such descriptive writing especially when she talks about the desserts Emory is making.
This has been such a fun series and I highly suggest you grab it if you like cozy mysteries.
I received and advanced copy for free, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
December 13, 2022
Rating: 3.5/5.0
The turn of events within the first quarter of “Buttercream Betrayal” sets the pace for an electrifyingly enticing cozy mystery.
Read full review in the 2022 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.
The turn of events within the first quarter of “Buttercream Betrayal” sets the pace for an electrifyingly enticing cozy mystery.
Read full review in the 2022 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.
March 27, 2023
I enjoyed the book Buttercream Betrayal the descriptions of the cupcakes had me wanting to eat all of them and she included recipes. The mystery was fun and the topic was timely. I enjoyed following along with the clues and trying to solve the mystery. Very fun.
November 21, 2025
Emory's dog runs amok at the training course run by Shawn, and her half-sister's dog fares no better. But when the two pups collide with Shawn's mother just as she's bringing in an apple pie dessert for the doggie graduation ceremony, the two find themselves in disgrace. So it's with trepidation that Emory returns to the site to retrieve a forgotten article. On the one hand, she doesn't have to face the irate woman; on the other hand, the woman is dead. Encouraged by the investigating detective to gossip with the other participants of the course, Emory finds herself embroiled in yet another murder investigation.
There's so much to enjoy in this series: the warm friendships, the scrumptious food, the beloved animals, and the sound work that Emory makes of her detection. It's the dream life, and I'm so glad I get to live it alongside a humble yet determined character. (And the plethora of recipes at the end of the story sound amazing!)
Thank you to Kim Davis and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this digital ARC. As always, my opinions are my own, honest and true.
There's so much to enjoy in this series: the warm friendships, the scrumptious food, the beloved animals, and the sound work that Emory makes of her detection. It's the dream life, and I'm so glad I get to live it alongside a humble yet determined character. (And the plethora of recipes at the end of the story sound amazing!)
Thank you to Kim Davis and BookSirens for the opportunity to read this digital ARC. As always, my opinions are my own, honest and true.
September 16, 2022
Another fun addition to the Cupcake Catering Mystery Series. Emory and Vannie join a group dog training program, but their results are less than desirable. It appears that others in the class aren’t thrilled with their results, either. Emory finds out that several of the attendees were coerced into not only buying dogs from Shawn Parker, but also purchasing his dog training course, both very expensive ventures.
When Emory returns to retrieve the serving dishes she had used for the cupcakes she had taken to celebrate the end of the dog training course, she finds Shawn’s mother, Eloise, the condo association president, dead. Emory, Vannie, and their friends set out to determine who killed Eloise and why.
There is suspicious activity by Shawn, murder, many suspects, twists and turns, comical antics by Emory and Tillie, danger for Piper, Missy, and Emory, and a new beginning for Emory and her boyfriend, Brian.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When Emory returns to retrieve the serving dishes she had used for the cupcakes she had taken to celebrate the end of the dog training course, she finds Shawn’s mother, Eloise, the condo association president, dead. Emory, Vannie, and their friends set out to determine who killed Eloise and why.
There is suspicious activity by Shawn, murder, many suspects, twists and turns, comical antics by Emory and Tillie, danger for Piper, Missy, and Emory, and a new beginning for Emory and her boyfriend, Brian.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 10, 2022
This is #5 in the series, and I enjoyed it just as much as the others I’ve read. Emory and Vannie decide to join a group dog training program by Shawn Parker to try and to improve their dog’s behavior. Some of the other participants have been coerced to join the group by Shawn’s mother Eloise, their Condo Association President. After the final session and a celebratory potluck (including some shenanigans by Piper and Missy, Emory’s dogs) they all head home. Emory realizes that she left the special platters she needed for a party the next day, and returns to collect them only to find Eloise dead. And that springs her into investigating another murder. I love the characters, especially Emory, Vannie and Tillie and enjoyed watching them try and put clues together! The bad guys are definitely unpleasant and up to no good, keeping the sleuths on their toes. Twists and surprises, including the ending, add excitement! I received a free copy from the author through BookSirens and write this review voluntarily.
October 2, 2022
Apples, apples, apples. There are some really tasty sounding recipes in this story. Even for the dogs! However, I think Piper and Missy should not get any for failing doggy training.
Then again, maybe Emory should take them to a better trainer than that very expensive horrible one they attended by Shawn who believes in a firm hand and maybe even some aggressiveness in the dogs to show who's boss.
This is book 5 in the Cupcake Catering Mystery series and Emory has stumbled across another body. However, the first body is not who I thought it would be. I was thinking Shawn would be the first killed due to how horrible his training services were and how much he refused interaction with those in his puppy classes. But instead it ended up being Shawn's mom Eloise the president of the condo association and a total bitch!
Before you could really sink your teeth in and try to figure out whom the most likely person could be another murder happens and you got to start your list all over again. Oops, guess it wasn't that person after all.
For me this one went a bit fast with the plot and nothing that I can recall led up to even the slightest hints of who the killers were. But, it was still a great read and I can't wait for the next one.
However, before I get to the next one I finally, finally will get around to the first book that is now in audio format!
Disclaimer:
I received a free copy of this book and my review is given freely.
Then again, maybe Emory should take them to a better trainer than that very expensive horrible one they attended by Shawn who believes in a firm hand and maybe even some aggressiveness in the dogs to show who's boss.
This is book 5 in the Cupcake Catering Mystery series and Emory has stumbled across another body. However, the first body is not who I thought it would be. I was thinking Shawn would be the first killed due to how horrible his training services were and how much he refused interaction with those in his puppy classes. But instead it ended up being Shawn's mom Eloise the president of the condo association and a total bitch!
Before you could really sink your teeth in and try to figure out whom the most likely person could be another murder happens and you got to start your list all over again. Oops, guess it wasn't that person after all.
For me this one went a bit fast with the plot and nothing that I can recall led up to even the slightest hints of who the killers were. But, it was still a great read and I can't wait for the next one.
However, before I get to the next one I finally, finally will get around to the first book that is now in audio format!
Disclaimer:
I received a free copy of this book and my review is given freely.
September 16, 2022
Love this series. The characters are real and interesting. I like the obvious caring between them.. Makes you feel like part of the family. The plot is absorbing with enough clues and suspects to keep you guessing. I especially like the way this author makes it challenging to come up with the correct guilty suspect. With pets and a touch of romance thrown in, what's not to like! Can't wait until the next one.
September 15, 2022
I enjoyed the book. It was an enjoyable fun read how Emory gets herself into trouble and out of trouble is truly amazing !!!, I have read a few of the books through the arcs from you and I enjoyed reading because it's a cozy comfortable and relaxing read. The dogs are cute and even the kittens are all over the place they are a nice touch to the book. Keep them coming!!!
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October 5, 2022This is the first book by Kim Davis that I have read, and it definitely will not be the last one!!! Her character development is 'off the charts' great, and I felt like I was attending each and every event right along with everyone, and that I was part of the family! I can't wait to read the other books that led up to this book in the series, as there are always character developments in previous books that help the reader. Although this is considered a stand-alone book in the series, I do feel reading the previous books would've helped me.
I'd give this book a 4.5 and that score is a bit unfair to the author for the following reasons. Call me 'old school' but I have trouble with same-sex relationships, and I prefer not to read about them when I'm trying to 'escape' from the world while reading a book. However, with that being said, the same-sex relationships in this book were extremely mild and well handled, and that will not deter me from reading other books written by this very talented author.
I did get a bit confused in trying to keep up with all of the characters in this book, and I kept getting the characters whose names start with "B's" mixed up, but I feel that is my fault and not the author's. But adding a reminder of who is who in a quick sentence near the 2/3 way thru the book (between brother and honey-bunny) would've done the trick for me. Even adding a quick 'hint' following a quote by the character would've helped me keep my characters straight.
I'm actually sad that I have other TBR books on the pile, and that I can't jump into another book immediately by Kim Davis, as her writing is just that good!!! I also really appreciate receiving the surprise of recipes at the end of the book, as my taste buds were going crazy and my 'tummy was rumbling' when there was baking going on.
And lastly, this book hit on something that is ever so true in these days and times, and that is the treatment of dogs born into a puppy mill situation. I actually have a dog that was rescued from a puppy mill, and he has been the best dog EVER, and part of the reason that I became involved with animal rescues.
I'm actually sad that this book is finished, as I just want more from this author!!!!
I received an ARC (Advanced Reader's Copy) of this book in return for my honest opinion of this book.
I'd give this book a 4.5 and that score is a bit unfair to the author for the following reasons. Call me 'old school' but I have trouble with same-sex relationships, and I prefer not to read about them when I'm trying to 'escape' from the world while reading a book. However, with that being said, the same-sex relationships in this book were extremely mild and well handled, and that will not deter me from reading other books written by this very talented author.
I did get a bit confused in trying to keep up with all of the characters in this book, and I kept getting the characters whose names start with "B's" mixed up, but I feel that is my fault and not the author's. But adding a reminder of who is who in a quick sentence near the 2/3 way thru the book (between brother and honey-bunny) would've done the trick for me. Even adding a quick 'hint' following a quote by the character would've helped me keep my characters straight.
I'm actually sad that I have other TBR books on the pile, and that I can't jump into another book immediately by Kim Davis, as her writing is just that good!!! I also really appreciate receiving the surprise of recipes at the end of the book, as my taste buds were going crazy and my 'tummy was rumbling' when there was baking going on.
And lastly, this book hit on something that is ever so true in these days and times, and that is the treatment of dogs born into a puppy mill situation. I actually have a dog that was rescued from a puppy mill, and he has been the best dog EVER, and part of the reason that I became involved with animal rescues.
I'm actually sad that this book is finished, as I just want more from this author!!!!
I received an ARC (Advanced Reader's Copy) of this book in return for my honest opinion of this book.
October 17, 2022
This is the fifth installment of Cupcake Catering Mystery by Kim Davis. This is a standalone book.
I am so pleased with the series. It just gets better and better. I haven’t read books 3 & 4 but I own them and plan to move them up on my TBR. I want to find out how Emory discovers her half-sister, Tillie, and Brian.
Eloise Parker, the HOA president and mother of the dog trainer is found dead in the community building. Later, another body is found murdered. Are they related? Emory and crew try to determine who killed them.
The book is well written, crafted, and interesting. It kept my interest even with some not so nice characters. I found it interesting that Detective Hawkes was willing to listen to Emory whenever she found out information that could possibly help him.
I liked how the family members and friends went out of their way to help each other out when the flu strikes, pets need taking care of and the weekly family/friend dinner.
I can’t wait for the next book. There were plenty delicious sounding recipes at the end of the book.
I was given an advanced copy of the book by Booksirens and I own the book. I am not required to leave a positive review.
I am so pleased with the series. It just gets better and better. I haven’t read books 3 & 4 but I own them and plan to move them up on my TBR. I want to find out how Emory discovers her half-sister, Tillie, and Brian.
Eloise Parker, the HOA president and mother of the dog trainer is found dead in the community building. Later, another body is found murdered. Are they related? Emory and crew try to determine who killed them.
The book is well written, crafted, and interesting. It kept my interest even with some not so nice characters. I found it interesting that Detective Hawkes was willing to listen to Emory whenever she found out information that could possibly help him.
I liked how the family members and friends went out of their way to help each other out when the flu strikes, pets need taking care of and the weekly family/friend dinner.
I can’t wait for the next book. There were plenty delicious sounding recipes at the end of the book.
I was given an advanced copy of the book by Booksirens and I own the book. I am not required to leave a positive review.
September 21, 2022
I loved the book. It was full of great characters trying to solve a mystery. There were plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing.
January 20, 2023
If you love dogs and sweet treats, you will enjoy this book by Kim Davis. When Emory and her half sister, Vannie, enroll their dogs, Missy and Piper, in classes at an obedience school, they hope to "tame" their dogs into being better behaved. The classes are led by Shawn Parker. It sounds as if some of his tactics are questionable, but he seems to get the desired result with most dogs. However, on graduation day Missy and Piper cannot contain their excitement and cause chaos ending with a dip in the pool! I found myself laughing out loud as I imagined these dogs causing complete chaos! Shawn's mother, Eloise Parker, is the President of the Condo Owners Association where the graduation ceremonies are taking place. She is not happy with their behavior. Picture a woman with her nose so high in the air if it rained, she would drown. She is appalled with the behavior of Missy and Piper and wants them "thrown out". When Vannie threatens to give Shawn a bad rating, she backs off.
Later that evening Emory has to go back to the clubhouse to get her cupcake trays, and she finds the body of Eloise Parker. Emory and her merry band of amateur sleuths (Vannie and Tillie) are determined to find the killer and solve the mystery. There is something dark going on with Shawn Parker, and they are determined to find out out what is going on. This book is full of playful puppies, wonderful descriptions of delightful food and a mystery with plenty of red herrings to provide the reader with suspense and questions.
The characters are fun to read about. I dearly love the dogs, and the mouth-watering food will make you want to either run to your nearest bakery or better yet use some of the delicious recipes from the back to make your own treats!
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Later that evening Emory has to go back to the clubhouse to get her cupcake trays, and she finds the body of Eloise Parker. Emory and her merry band of amateur sleuths (Vannie and Tillie) are determined to find the killer and solve the mystery. There is something dark going on with Shawn Parker, and they are determined to find out out what is going on. This book is full of playful puppies, wonderful descriptions of delightful food and a mystery with plenty of red herrings to provide the reader with suspense and questions.
The characters are fun to read about. I dearly love the dogs, and the mouth-watering food will make you want to either run to your nearest bakery or better yet use some of the delicious recipes from the back to make your own treats!
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 6, 2023
I have just loved this series that Kim has written. This is book #5 in the series and they are such good mysteries love when seniors want to help solve a crime! Kim hit a home run with this!
October 16, 2022
Butter cream Betrayal book 5 in series
Nice read. First time reading Kim Davis' books. Her characters were kind of confusing because I didn't know who was who. But I stuck with the storyline and by the third chapter I was able to figure out who was who. Overall I really enjoyed the book and reading more from this author.
Nice read. First time reading Kim Davis' books. Her characters were kind of confusing because I didn't know who was who. But I stuck with the storyline and by the third chapter I was able to figure out who was who. Overall I really enjoyed the book and reading more from this author.
January 23, 2023
I look forward to the next book in the series the crazy shenanigans and murders Emory finds herself in are great. This book can be read as a stand alone or as part of the series and as always there are great recipes in the back!
Emory and Tillie again find themselves in a murder investigation. Can they find out who did it before Emory gets murdered? I laughed and this book had me guessing who done it from the beginning! I can't wait until the next book comes out!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Emory and Tillie again find themselves in a murder investigation. Can they find out who did it before Emory gets murdered? I laughed and this book had me guessing who done it from the beginning! I can't wait until the next book comes out!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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