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Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mysteries #3
Mint and Murder
A dancer is found dead. The killer will go to great lengths to avoid apprehension. Deputy Jordan Branson is accused of murder in order to cover up a departmental investigation into his questionable behavior. He asks former Hollywood starlet, Sam Jones, to help him find the real killer. The problem? Sam isn't sure she believes in his innocence. She dives into the case anyway, but unfortunately, all clues lead directly back to Jordan. Once Jordan's arrested and proclaims his innocence once again, Sam's determined to catch the real killer and continues to prod and question the rest of the suspects. But will she uncover the truth before the real killer gets to her next?
178 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 17, 2022
40 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Carly Winter
56 books236 followersUSA Today bestselling author Carly Winter writes fun, small town cozy mysteries, always with a dash of humor and quirky characters. When not writing, you can find her spending time with her family, on a Pilates reformer or enjoying the fantastic Arizona weather (except summer - she doesn't like summer). She does like dogs, wine and chocolate and wishes Christmas happened twice a year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
November 14, 2022
When a nasty dance instructor is brutally murdered at the Groove and Go dance studio, Sam Jones is pulled into the case to prove the innocence of Deputy Jordan Branson, her friend and inside source at the sheriff's department. Will Jordan's murky past shake Sam's faith in him?
The gang is back together, working to foil Sheriff Mallory Richards - a legendary corner-cutter who jumps at the first suspect and looks no further. The dynamic of Sam's crew is marvellous; they each bring something unique to the table and the whole is much greater than the sum of its parts. The villains were sufficiently villainous without being caricatures and the author gave enough clues to the solution so that the ending felt both fair and satisfying.
Thank you to BookSirens and Carly Winter for the opportunity to read this eARC. As always, my opinions are my own, honest and true.
The gang is back together, working to foil Sheriff Mallory Richards - a legendary corner-cutter who jumps at the first suspect and looks no further. The dynamic of Sam's crew is marvellous; they each bring something unique to the table and the whole is much greater than the sum of its parts. The villains were sufficiently villainous without being caricatures and the author gave enough clues to the solution so that the ending felt both fair and satisfying.
Thank you to BookSirens and Carly Winter for the opportunity to read this eARC. As always, my opinions are my own, honest and true.
March 31, 2025
The third in this cozy mystery series I've read and it flows nicely from one book to the next.
I did wonder in this book why Sam has doubts whether her friend is innocent when in book two she immediately assumed the innocence of another friend. It felt odd to me, despite her trust issues with men.
I liked seeing the friendship between Sam, Annabelle, Gina and Jordan evolve very much, the characters are really lovable.
The references to Sam's past could/should become more background really, the name of the daytime soap she was in doesn't have to be mentioned every time.
The mystery was well set-up, although I had an idea who the culprit might be about half way through. But it still took the rest of the book to be sure, so extra points there, although the wrap-up after the mystery is solved felt to be missing, that could have done with a few extra pages.
All in all a nice cozy mystery to read with a nice drink by your side.
I did wonder in this book why Sam has doubts whether her friend is innocent when in book two she immediately assumed the innocence of another friend. It felt odd to me, despite her trust issues with men.
I liked seeing the friendship between Sam, Annabelle, Gina and Jordan evolve very much, the characters are really lovable.
The references to Sam's past could/should become more background really, the name of the daytime soap she was in doesn't have to be mentioned every time.
The mystery was well set-up, although I had an idea who the culprit might be about half way through. But it still took the rest of the book to be sure, so extra points there, although the wrap-up after the mystery is solved felt to be missing, that could have done with a few extra pages.
All in all a nice cozy mystery to read with a nice drink by your side.
January 8, 2025
Another of Sam Jones' adventures in Heywood with her lovely friends and "not so boyfriend" deputy Jordan❤️
November 17, 2022
Sam is excited about the coming warmer months and has been planning on expanding her store to include outside seating and simple tea and sweets. Her joy at the prospect of finally going forward is tempered when her friend Jordan the deputy for Heywood tells her that he’s been suspended and is a suspect in the murder of a former employee of the station. He asks Sam for help in finding the real killer but when he tells her the reason he’s a strong suspect she is not only shocked but conflicted. She likes Jordan and wants to believe him but her past has jaded her and she’s unsure if she can trust fully again. Yet when Jordan gives her an out she doesn’t take it she decides that finding the killer will prove or disprove the worth of Jordan.
We have a very emotionally difficult situation with this case. Sam and Jordan reach a crossroads in their relationship and the investigation serves as a litmus test for whether or not they will be able to move forward. There is the amusing background of Annabelle and her dance competition a veritable smorgasbord of 80’s nostalgia. I hope that Sam does give herself a chance to fully heal by letting more people like Jordan into her life. I enjoy the kooky townsfolk and the crazy situations that could only happen in a small town. I very much love that our mc is a woman of a certain age who is intelligent, vital, vulnerable and brave for taking a huge risk in a new lease in life. My only minor complaint is that I would’ve liked a connect with Jordan after the case was solved properly. Other than that it’s a great story!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
We have a very emotionally difficult situation with this case. Sam and Jordan reach a crossroads in their relationship and the investigation serves as a litmus test for whether or not they will be able to move forward. There is the amusing background of Annabelle and her dance competition a veritable smorgasbord of 80’s nostalgia. I hope that Sam does give herself a chance to fully heal by letting more people like Jordan into her life. I enjoy the kooky townsfolk and the crazy situations that could only happen in a small town. I very much love that our mc is a woman of a certain age who is intelligent, vital, vulnerable and brave for taking a huge risk in a new lease in life. My only minor complaint is that I would’ve liked a connect with Jordan after the case was solved properly. Other than that it’s a great story!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 13, 2024
Sam Jones has already made a reputation for herself as an amature detective. She has solved two murders when the incompetent sheriff has failed to investigate thoroughly. When Jordan is accused of murder, he asks her for help. All the clues were there for the reader, the suspects were all as unlikable as the deceased. I enjoyed the typical amature sleuth action ending too. My only complaint after reading the book was a minor one. I wished that she had then trusted Jordan with her own past so that the relationship can grow. But that is a story for another "thyme." I received a review copy of this book, but the opinions written are entirely my own. I can honestly recommend this book to any cozy mystery lover, but especially to older readers who will enjoy the more mature protagonist.
September 18, 2024
Did the Cop Do It?
I absolutely love this series! I've listened to the audiobooks for each of the three books so far. I like how the series features older characters, the main ones in their 50s, including the former soap opera actress turned herbal store owner, her '80s-obsessed resident herbalist, and her potential love interest, a George Clooney look-alike cop from Chicago. In this story, that cop is in the hot seat! In the prior book, a young woman who worked at the police station had actually sexually harassed him, but when she was told that was part of the reason she was being fired in her exit interview, she stated he sexually harassed her. Unbeknownst to our heroine, he's been under investigation by the “doesn't play fair” police chief since then, and it only accelerates after the young woman is found dead. Early in the book, the hero reveals his tragic past, which has unfortunate similarities between what happened then and what is happening now. Somewhat disappointingly to me, the heroine doubts his innocence for quite a while, despite them having become relatively close friends during the previous two books. I love how the author had so many potential murderers, people who could have had a genuine beef with the young woman. The murder itself has complex, unusual details that are surprisingly fascinating—and some things probably only a woman would pick up on. I love how the heroine slowly pieces together all the weird elements and potential suspects. Like so many books these days, the book ends with the next murder that will be tackled in the next story. I hope that the police chief (or is it a sheriff??) finally gets her comeuppance. She seems to want to barely work on any case, taking the path of least resistance based on circumstantial evidence, whether or not she puts the innocent behind bars. Highly recommended, though I definitely suggest you start with the first book of this series so you get a better sense of the main characters and the quirky town. You probably wouldn't be confused by this book, but your appreciation of all that happens will be so much more if you have a deeper background understanding of the series.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
I absolutely love this series! I've listened to the audiobooks for each of the three books so far. I like how the series features older characters, the main ones in their 50s, including the former soap opera actress turned herbal store owner, her '80s-obsessed resident herbalist, and her potential love interest, a George Clooney look-alike cop from Chicago. In this story, that cop is in the hot seat! In the prior book, a young woman who worked at the police station had actually sexually harassed him, but when she was told that was part of the reason she was being fired in her exit interview, she stated he sexually harassed her. Unbeknownst to our heroine, he's been under investigation by the “doesn't play fair” police chief since then, and it only accelerates after the young woman is found dead. Early in the book, the hero reveals his tragic past, which has unfortunate similarities between what happened then and what is happening now. Somewhat disappointingly to me, the heroine doubts his innocence for quite a while, despite them having become relatively close friends during the previous two books. I love how the author had so many potential murderers, people who could have had a genuine beef with the young woman. The murder itself has complex, unusual details that are surprisingly fascinating—and some things probably only a woman would pick up on. I love how the heroine slowly pieces together all the weird elements and potential suspects. Like so many books these days, the book ends with the next murder that will be tackled in the next story. I hope that the police chief (or is it a sheriff??) finally gets her comeuppance. She seems to want to barely work on any case, taking the path of least resistance based on circumstantial evidence, whether or not she puts the innocent behind bars. Highly recommended, though I definitely suggest you start with the first book of this series so you get a better sense of the main characters and the quirky town. You probably wouldn't be confused by this book, but your appreciation of all that happens will be so much more if you have a deeper background understanding of the series.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
November 15, 2022
The Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mysteries series by Carly Winter has become one of my favorite cozy series. And the newest installment in the series, "Mint and Murder" did not disappoint. I love that the female protagonist, Sam owns a store that sells herbs of all kinds and tinctures made up right there in the shop by her assistant Annabelle and she's not a witch! Most every other book where the protagonist owns an herb store or herbal remedy store, they're a witch or someone with psychic abilities.
Sam has a history of solving murders that have stumped the police in the past so when one of their own, Deputy Jordan Branson is arrested for the murder of a woman in the dance studio where she works, Sam is ready to help. As the case gets heated and Deputy Jordan fights for his freedom, he tells Sam a long-held secret about his past that could change Sam's perception of his innocence. Sam has trust issues after a bad relationship, so will any of what she's learned cause her to back off the investigation, or will she be willing to trust her own instincts and fight for Deputy Branson's freedom?
I love the setting of Heywood, AZ and these characters are great! Ms. Winter has done an excellent job developing them throughout the series with each book sharing a little bit more about them, especially Sam who's holding a secret that could affect everything about her life and friendships in Heywood. These are quick reads that are hard to put down. If you're like me, you won't be able to stop till you find out whodunnit. Just one more perk of this book is Ms. Winter left quite a cliffhanger to the next book in the epilogue. Now I'm patiently waiting for book 4, which comes out on 12/8/22! I can hardly wait to see what Sam and friends get caught up in next. Happy Reading!
Sam has a history of solving murders that have stumped the police in the past so when one of their own, Deputy Jordan Branson is arrested for the murder of a woman in the dance studio where she works, Sam is ready to help. As the case gets heated and Deputy Jordan fights for his freedom, he tells Sam a long-held secret about his past that could change Sam's perception of his innocence. Sam has trust issues after a bad relationship, so will any of what she's learned cause her to back off the investigation, or will she be willing to trust her own instincts and fight for Deputy Branson's freedom?
I love the setting of Heywood, AZ and these characters are great! Ms. Winter has done an excellent job developing them throughout the series with each book sharing a little bit more about them, especially Sam who's holding a secret that could affect everything about her life and friendships in Heywood. These are quick reads that are hard to put down. If you're like me, you won't be able to stop till you find out whodunnit. Just one more perk of this book is Ms. Winter left quite a cliffhanger to the next book in the epilogue. Now I'm patiently waiting for book 4, which comes out on 12/8/22! I can hardly wait to see what Sam and friends get caught up in next. Happy Reading!
January 26, 2023
Mint and Murder is the third book in the Heywood Herbalist series by Carly Winter. Set in Heywood, Arizona, Police officer/Sam's "not my boyfriend" Jordan comes to her when a former colleague is found murdered and asks for Sam's help because he is the prime suspect due to the victim accusing him of sexual harassment and assault. As the story unfolds, Jordan also reveals details of his past that have added to the sheriff's arsenal against him.
The intricate weaving of the various character's lives is one thing that pulls the reader in to these stories and the author has done an exceptional job of maintaining consistency throughout the series. I did find myself feeling somewhat conflicted by Sam's attitude when Jordan revealed his past since she herself is keeping some major secrets from him. This would have been the perfect opportunity for her to come clean to him and move their relationship to a new level of trust. That said, however, the author also was able to introduce new characters and add more background to existing ones to provide the red herrings and twists that led up to a surprising reveal of the culprit and reminds the reader to never overlook the unlikely individuals as anyone can be pushed past their own boundaries by actions of selfish individuals. As this series continues, it will be interesting to see where Sam's and Jordan's relationship goes and how long it will takes before Sam's past is revealed to all in town.
I received a free copy of this book at Booksirens from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily.
The intricate weaving of the various character's lives is one thing that pulls the reader in to these stories and the author has done an exceptional job of maintaining consistency throughout the series. I did find myself feeling somewhat conflicted by Sam's attitude when Jordan revealed his past since she herself is keeping some major secrets from him. This would have been the perfect opportunity for her to come clean to him and move their relationship to a new level of trust. That said, however, the author also was able to introduce new characters and add more background to existing ones to provide the red herrings and twists that led up to a surprising reveal of the culprit and reminds the reader to never overlook the unlikely individuals as anyone can be pushed past their own boundaries by actions of selfish individuals. As this series continues, it will be interesting to see where Sam's and Jordan's relationship goes and how long it will takes before Sam's past is revealed to all in town.
I received a free copy of this book at Booksirens from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 22, 2025
Thoughts:
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I had to read this book, seeing it was available, after reading Pipers Piping and Puppies last year. I did read it as a standalone (it’s not the first time I’ve read a series out of order and likely won’t be the last) I managed to follow along fine although I’m sure I’d have understood the relationship dynamics better had I read it in the correct order. I found the story great and as for the mystery I was guessing myself right the way through until Sam figured it out. Sam is a strong female main character who feels worth investing in so I may have to go search some more of the Heywood Herbalist series out. I enjoyed seeing Sam interact with her friends as they had great chemistry and it felt real, and also really liked Sam’s interactions with Doug as it added another layer of humanity to her and reality to the town. I would love to see how the characters and their relationships develop as they go on as I know there’s many more to the series. However, I really didn’t like the way in which an epilogue was put for the book but it was just a teaser for the next book outlining the murder mystery and then telling us to find the next book. I’d have rather had no epilogue, which makes sense with there being more in the series, and sharing a preview to the next book instead of tricking us into reading it.
Favourite Quote:
“This is a small town and sometimes, there's not a lot to discuss except rumors and other people's business.”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I had to read this book, seeing it was available, after reading Pipers Piping and Puppies last year. I did read it as a standalone (it’s not the first time I’ve read a series out of order and likely won’t be the last) I managed to follow along fine although I’m sure I’d have understood the relationship dynamics better had I read it in the correct order. I found the story great and as for the mystery I was guessing myself right the way through until Sam figured it out. Sam is a strong female main character who feels worth investing in so I may have to go search some more of the Heywood Herbalist series out. I enjoyed seeing Sam interact with her friends as they had great chemistry and it felt real, and also really liked Sam’s interactions with Doug as it added another layer of humanity to her and reality to the town. I would love to see how the characters and their relationships develop as they go on as I know there’s many more to the series. However, I really didn’t like the way in which an epilogue was put for the book but it was just a teaser for the next book outlining the murder mystery and then telling us to find the next book. I’d have rather had no epilogue, which makes sense with there being more in the series, and sharing a preview to the next book instead of tricking us into reading it.
Favourite Quote:
“This is a small town and sometimes, there's not a lot to discuss except rumors and other people's business.”
September 13, 2024
I first read this book several months ago. When I had the opportunity to review the audiobook , I jumped at the chance. This is one of those instances that are even better as an audiobook. Narrator Nicole Scott does a fantastic job. The character voices are each distinct and easy to keep track of and the expression is entertaining, the acting is believable and not over the top.
Sam Jones has already made a reputation for herself as an amature detective. She has solved two murders when the incompetent sheriff has failed to investigate thoroughly. When Jordan is accused of murder, he asks her for help. All the clues were there for the reader, the suspects were all as unlikable as the deceased. I enjoyed the typical amature sleuth action ending too. My only complaint after reading the book the first time was a minor one. I wished that the main character trusted Jordan with her own past so that the relationship could grow. But that is a story for another "thyme."- or at least another book. I can honestly recommend this book to any cozy mystery lover, but especially to older readers who will enjoy the more mature protagonist.
Winters has created a set of fun characters in the Heywood Herbalist series and then continued with a spinoff series, Heywood Hounds, which is an absolute delight.
Sam Jones has already made a reputation for herself as an amature detective. She has solved two murders when the incompetent sheriff has failed to investigate thoroughly. When Jordan is accused of murder, he asks her for help. All the clues were there for the reader, the suspects were all as unlikable as the deceased. I enjoyed the typical amature sleuth action ending too. My only complaint after reading the book the first time was a minor one. I wished that the main character trusted Jordan with her own past so that the relationship could grow. But that is a story for another "thyme."- or at least another book. I can honestly recommend this book to any cozy mystery lover, but especially to older readers who will enjoy the more mature protagonist.
Winters has created a set of fun characters in the Heywood Herbalist series and then continued with a spinoff series, Heywood Hounds, which is an absolute delight.
November 6, 2022
I really enjoyed this book, and love the series! Samantha (Sam) is a former soap star that was blacklisted in Hollywood after getting caught up in a scandal she had nothing to do with, resulting in her husband's murder. She ended up using an assumed name in a small town in Arizona working as an herbalist, trying to escape her previous life and keep her true identity a secret. I just love how the characters grow and develop in this fairly new series. Sam's friend and colleague who loves everything eighties is hilarious! This time, Sam and her friend Gina take dance lessons to investigate a murder which Sam's friend/sort of boyfriend, Jordan, is wrongly accused of, and the sheriff, who is terrible at solving murders, is convinced he is guilty. Overall a well written, hard to put down book. There are several things I'd love to see happen in future books. Will they? I can't wait to find out! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 10, 2022
My Review:
“Oh, what a tangled web we weave…” There are no shortage of suspects in this 3rd book of the Heywood Herbalist series and the key to solving the murder is cleverly unique. The only thing you (and Sam) can truly be sure of is that Jordan didn’t do it – or did he?! We get a detailed look into Jordan’s tragic past, but can Sam bring herself to be as open with him?
While I look at cozy mysteries as light and entertaining palate cleansers between heavier reads, there are in this episode some thought provoking interactions which pose questions about trust (or lack thereof) and how we tend to protect ourselves once our trust has been violated – often from the wrong people.
And is there another person in Heywood who has ferreted out Sam’s true identity? Things are getting interesting!
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
“Oh, what a tangled web we weave…” There are no shortage of suspects in this 3rd book of the Heywood Herbalist series and the key to solving the murder is cleverly unique. The only thing you (and Sam) can truly be sure of is that Jordan didn’t do it – or did he?! We get a detailed look into Jordan’s tragic past, but can Sam bring herself to be as open with him?
While I look at cozy mysteries as light and entertaining palate cleansers between heavier reads, there are in this episode some thought provoking interactions which pose questions about trust (or lack thereof) and how we tend to protect ourselves once our trust has been violated – often from the wrong people.
And is there another person in Heywood who has ferreted out Sam’s true identity? Things are getting interesting!
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 7, 2022
While this is the 3rd book in the Heywood Herbalist series, it is the first I have read. Sam has come to Heywood to escape her past as a soap opera star, a fact that she is trying to keep hidden. She has become the owner of a herb shop and seems to have become an amateur sleuth when those closest to her are being wrongfully accused of murder. This time it is her love interest Deputy Jordan Branson who has been accused of killing a dancer who has accused him of sexual harassment. With the help of her faithful friends, Annabelle and Gina, she dives in to try to sort out this confusing mess. I love all the quirky characters, the crazy situations Sam keeps ending up in, and Sam's fierce determination to uncover the real killer. Well written story that won't let you put it down until the end. Will definitely be going back to read the first two books as well as the next book in the series!
March 8, 2023
I've read earlier books for this series and received this one from Book Sirens to read to leave an honest review.
The series is about a woman who was a former soap opera star, but when her husband is killed and her house burned down, she moves to Heywood, a small town, to remake her life. She is left this herbal goods store when her employer is murdered, and in this installment, she wants to add a deck to expand her business. She has a non-boyfriend but close enough to be her boyfriend. He works for the police force, but when a woman who filed a false sexual harassment report against him ends up dead, he is the main suspect. He asks Sam, the main character and amateur sleuth, to help clear his name. She does, of course, in the end. I recommend this series, and although this is a great stand-alone, you may want to read the preceding books in the series.
The series is about a woman who was a former soap opera star, but when her husband is killed and her house burned down, she moves to Heywood, a small town, to remake her life. She is left this herbal goods store when her employer is murdered, and in this installment, she wants to add a deck to expand her business. She has a non-boyfriend but close enough to be her boyfriend. He works for the police force, but when a woman who filed a false sexual harassment report against him ends up dead, he is the main suspect. He asks Sam, the main character and amateur sleuth, to help clear his name. She does, of course, in the end. I recommend this series, and although this is a great stand-alone, you may want to read the preceding books in the series.
April 18, 2023
Sam Jones, a former daytime soap opera fan favorite, flees Hollywood and finds a new start in Heywood Arizona. Bonnies, who owns an herbal store, takes her under her wing and gives her a job and apartment. Her life in quiet, small-town Heywood, starts to calm her untrusting soul, until Bonnie is murdered, Sam inherits the store, and she becomes a prime suspect.
I love this series. Sam is a great main character, and the supporting characters are interesting, quirky, and have their own stories to tell. Good rendition of small-town living, especially how fast news travels. This review covers the first three books in the series. If you like, cozy mysteries with an original cast of characters, this series is for you. Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I love this series. Sam is a great main character, and the supporting characters are interesting, quirky, and have their own stories to tell. Good rendition of small-town living, especially how fast news travels. This review covers the first three books in the series. If you like, cozy mysteries with an original cast of characters, this series is for you. Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC. I look forward to reading more from this author.
November 15, 2022
Welcome back to Heywood, Arizona and our favorite group of sleuths. Sam, Annabelle and Gina are once again on the trail of a murderer.
It seems like everytime Sam turns around someone she cares about is being framed for murder, this time the accused is none other than Deputy Jordon Branson (the man she cares deeply for).
This is such a wonderful series, full of laughter with a side of crime and a group of women who stop at nothing to protect those they love.
I for one can not wait for more in this series, the Author is and amazing story teller.
Mint and Murder
It seems like everytime Sam turns around someone she cares about is being framed for murder, this time the accused is none other than Deputy Jordon Branson (the man she cares deeply for).
This is such a wonderful series, full of laughter with a side of crime and a group of women who stop at nothing to protect those they love.
I for one can not wait for more in this series, the Author is and amazing story teller.
Mint and Murder
December 1, 2022
Mint and Murder is the 3rd book in the Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mystery series. It can be read as a stand alone. Even though it ends with a teaser at the end to introduce the next in series, the mystery in this book is concluded.
Ms. Winter continues to develop the main core characters. One of the interesting aspects of this book was the inclusion of some back story of one of the characters. I hope this becomes a trend in her books as I always enjoy learning more about the characters. The plot line was well developed and pacing was good. I enjoyed reading this book and I look forward to reading more in this series.
I received an ARC of this book which in no way influences my opinion which I am voluntarily given.
Ms. Winter continues to develop the main core characters. One of the interesting aspects of this book was the inclusion of some back story of one of the characters. I hope this becomes a trend in her books as I always enjoy learning more about the characters. The plot line was well developed and pacing was good. I enjoyed reading this book and I look forward to reading more in this series.
I received an ARC of this book which in no way influences my opinion which I am voluntarily given.
December 7, 2022
This story begins with a moonwalk and ends with an bang! When Brittanie is found murdered, it turns out Sam is not the only one she has annoyed with her lies and manipulations. But, when her death somewhat mirrors an event from Lt. Jordan's past, he becomes the main suspect and asks retired former soap start turned apothecary owner Sam Jones to help him.
I really love this series, especially how the author weaves in Hollywood stories, like when Sam drops a hint that she may have met her best friend's obsession. While Sam's trust issues make it hard for her to help the deputy, the mystery is well done and had me guessing until the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really love this series, especially how the author weaves in Hollywood stories, like when Sam drops a hint that she may have met her best friend's obsession. While Sam's trust issues make it hard for her to help the deputy, the mystery is well done and had me guessing until the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 19, 2022
I received an advanced reader copy from Book Sirens. This is the second in the Heywood Herbalist series. I have read others in the series. They can be read as stand alone, however the background information from previous stories helps to build depth to the characters. I enjoy cozy mysteries. Sam owns Sage Advice, a store selling homeopathic and tinctures. Sam has a secret past only Annabelle knows about. As Sam is trying to rebuild her life, she finds the true meaning of friendship. Add in Jordan who could be her boyfriend, if she would open her heart. Jordan is accused of murder. Sam is intent on finding the true killer. Go on an adventure and uncover the clues. I look forward to reading the rest of the books in this series and other books written by Carly Winter.
November 5, 2022
A dancer/teacher is murdered at the Groove and Go dance studio. Unfortunately, the person murdered is Brittany, who had recently accused Sam’s good friend Deputy Jordan of assaulting her, and he’s accused of murdering her to make the charges go away! He asks Sam to help find out the real murderer. Sam coerces her friend Gina to take a set of dance lessons there so she can investigate, with hilarious results! But it seems like quite a few people had problems with Brittany and therefore motive. An interesting case and investigation, and a great read. I received a free copy of this book from BookSirens and the author and I write this review voluntarily.
November 6, 2022
Mint and Murder is Book 3 in the Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mystery by Carly Winter. I enjoyed this story. Annabelle is a really fun character and dancing as Michael Jackson… I can totally see that and smile. Jordan and Sam meet everyday for coffee, but, they aren't dating, or are they? I like the characters and I always enjoy the story. Sam must help clear Jordan from a murder charge. I liked how everything came together to solve the mystery. But, who will kill Mrs Claus in Book 4? I can't wait to read the book and see who done the murder. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
November 13, 2022
I once again I found a fabulous cozey mystery with murder. The array of characters are vibrant, colorful and quirky and of course a deadly schemer or this wouldn't be such a good cozey mystery murder. the characters draw you in wanting to get to know them better while the mystery entices you further with its intrigue and suspects who each had a well established motive. The plot grabs you by the throat and won't let you go completely keeping you entranced turning page after page until you reach its unexpected and climatic conclusion Acquire " Mint and Murder " for an emotional turmoil of intrigue and enjoyable entertainment. Kat
December 27, 2022
Sam, a former soap opera star now living incognito and running an herbalist store, and her bouncy assistant Annabelle, are caught up in another difficult murder. Sam's good friend and policeman Jordan has been accused of murdering a much younger woman, and she promises to solve the problem before he's convicted in a kangaroo court. Unfortunately, former events in his life - plus the sloppiness of the sheriff, his boss - conspire against him. Trust issues surface for Sam too - can she overcome all this and find the culprit? A good cozy, great side characters. - I'm leaving this honest review after receiving an advance copy.
March 9, 2023
The third installment in the series, Mint and Murder is from The Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mysteries series by Carly Winter and has become one of my favorite cozy series.
These books are quick reads that are hard to set down. If you're like me, you won't be able to stop till you find out the culprit. Just one more plus from this book, the author left quite a cliffhanger to the next book in the ending. Now I'm waiting to load book 4! I can hardly wait to see what Sam and friends get caught up in next. Highly recommend! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
These books are quick reads that are hard to set down. If you're like me, you won't be able to stop till you find out the culprit. Just one more plus from this book, the author left quite a cliffhanger to the next book in the ending. Now I'm waiting to load book 4! I can hardly wait to see what Sam and friends get caught up in next. Highly recommend! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 29, 2024
This is the third book in the Heywood Herbalist Cozy Mysteries Series, a Small Town Cozy Mystery. I like this series! Once again, we follow Samantha's sleuthing in this small town murder mystery. The plot is well crafted, and captivating, filled with twists and turns. The supporting characters are intriguing. Nicole Scott did a good job bringing this story to life. I enjoyed it. Looking forward to listening to Mistletoe and Mayhem, the next book in the series. If you like cozy mysteries, this series is for you. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2025
I’m loving this series so much the characters, unique and quirky and is such a fun, cozy, murder mystery series’s
when a former soap opera star Sam’s husband is killed and her house burned down she moves a small town ti start over. Sam is left this herbal store when her boss/friend is murdered. (Of course she solved that case too.
Her boyfriend if she dated is accused of murder and she must find the murder or see him go to jail. It just so happens he is also a police officer and jail isn’t the place for him
Can she clear his name before it’s too late? With a handful of people that could have done she has her work cut out for her.
when a former soap opera star Sam’s husband is killed and her house burned down she moves a small town ti start over. Sam is left this herbal store when her boss/friend is murdered. (Of course she solved that case too.
Her boyfriend if she dated is accused of murder and she must find the murder or see him go to jail. It just so happens he is also a police officer and jail isn’t the place for him
Can she clear his name before it’s too late? With a handful of people that could have done she has her work cut out for her.
November 16, 2022
Mint & Murder by Carly Smith is a fun, cozy murder mystery with some unique characters. The main character has a hidden past and while trying to settle into a new community discovers she has an affinity for getting herself into the middle of murder cases and dragging her friends and coworkers along!
The epilogue sets you up for a return to Merwood and another mystery when they find themselves in the middle of another death.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The epilogue sets you up for a return to Merwood and another mystery when they find themselves in the middle of another death.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 20, 2022
Sam finds herself facing trust issues and ghosts from her past
A small town dance competition is surprisingly competitive, and her friend and co-worker Annabelle really wants to win again
the death of a dancer reveals more than a little animosity among the dancers and the folks around them
Sam also analyzes her feelings for Jordan, and really does not want to.
Fatal, fierce and funny small town cozy and whodunnit.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A small town dance competition is surprisingly competitive, and her friend and co-worker Annabelle really wants to win again
the death of a dancer reveals more than a little animosity among the dancers and the folks around them
Sam also analyzes her feelings for Jordan, and really does not want to.
Fatal, fierce and funny small town cozy and whodunnit.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 24, 2022
This is part of a wonderful cozy mystery series. Sam, Jordan, Gina and Annabelle are all great characters and are likable and well developed. The back stories and development of relationships is fun to watch. The only disappointment of this book was that when Sam finally solves the mystery the ending just falls flat and doesn't show what happens with the characters related to her solve. Otherwise this is a great little book and series for a cozy read with a cup of hot cocoa in front of the fire.
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.
February 10, 2024
Carly Winter is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. I have read from several of her series and they are all warm, funny, enthralling books. This was no exception. I actually started with this series and read ahead, so this was like a prequel for me, but it was still a great story and interesting to look back and watch how things happened. This is a great book and I would highly recommend it for anyone looking for a fun, light mystery.
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.
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