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A Sunflower Café Mystery #2
A Murder of Aspic Proportions
Set in small-town Kansas, USA Today bestselling author Amy Lillard’s Sunshine Café Mystery series features a twenty-something advice columnist turned café manager and sleuth, her tiny dog with a big personality, farm-fresh produce—and murder!
Professional advice columnist turned café manager and amateur sleuth Sissy Yoder is adjusting to life in her parents’ small but not-so-sleepy former hometown of Yoder, Kansas, where family is plentiful, the tomatoes are “to die for”—and murder is often in season . . .
Twenty-something Sissy Yoder never imagined herself running her Aunt Bethel’s café, but her help is needed, so she’s making a go of it. And she must admit that life in tiny Yoder has been anything but dull–she’s already solved one homicide—after being named the prime suspect in the case!
Enjoying a peaceful respite after all that excitement, Sissy just wants to write her advice column, hang out with her loyal Yorkie, Duke, and procure some of local farmer Walt Summers’ scrumptious “To Die For” tomatoes for the Sunshine Café’s menu. But when the unsavory Summers–resented by just about everyone in town–turns up murdered in his garden shed, it’s up to Sissy to roll up her sleeves, dig for some clues, and weed out the culprit . . .
Professional advice columnist turned café manager and amateur sleuth Sissy Yoder is adjusting to life in her parents’ small but not-so-sleepy former hometown of Yoder, Kansas, where family is plentiful, the tomatoes are “to die for”—and murder is often in season . . .
Twenty-something Sissy Yoder never imagined herself running her Aunt Bethel’s café, but her help is needed, so she’s making a go of it. And she must admit that life in tiny Yoder has been anything but dull–she’s already solved one homicide—after being named the prime suspect in the case!
Enjoying a peaceful respite after all that excitement, Sissy just wants to write her advice column, hang out with her loyal Yorkie, Duke, and procure some of local farmer Walt Summers’ scrumptious “To Die For” tomatoes for the Sunshine Café’s menu. But when the unsavory Summers–resented by just about everyone in town–turns up murdered in his garden shed, it’s up to Sissy to roll up her sleeves, dig for some clues, and weed out the culprit . . .
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published June 27, 2023
12 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Amy Lillard
101 books672 followersI'm a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.
I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I've retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I'm from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son--a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!
I love homemade tacos, nail polish, and romance novels--not necessarily in that order. I'm a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I'm shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.
I believe that God is love. I guess that's why I adore romances.
I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I'm a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that's me June Cleaver with a laptop.
I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I'll get to it or I won't, either way I'm good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I'm alone on this last one, and again, I'm good with it.)
Favorite movies--(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940's movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven't seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn's and Audrey's.
I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I've retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I'm from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son--a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!
I love homemade tacos, nail polish, and romance novels--not necessarily in that order. I'm a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I'm shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.
I believe that God is love. I guess that's why I adore romances.
I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I'm a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that's me June Cleaver with a laptop.
I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I'll get to it or I won't, either way I'm good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I'm alone on this last one, and again, I'm good with it.)
Favorite movies--(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940's movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven't seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn's and Audrey's.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
June 27, 2023
A Murder of Aspic Proportions is book two in Amy Lillard’s A Sunflower Cafe’ Mystery series. A young Amish woman with her entire life ahead of her decides to confess to a murder in order to protect a family member. The victim is the most hated man in the town of Yoder Kansas. Everyone in the town had a motive for wanting him dead. The town’s sleuth, pretty Sissy Yoder, can’t except that her cousin up and murdered that man so she and her Amish Aunt Bethel Yoder team up to find out who really killed Walt Summers and why Emma Yoder would confess to killing him. Trouble is the two sleuths lack clues and Emma doesn’t want their help. Should they except the fact that Emma killed Walt or try to find a trail of evidence that leads to the real murderer?
I thought this cozy mystery was witty and cute. Not that I’m saying murder is cute but the way the Author tells the story will make readers want to giggle a time or two. I felt like the story may have dragged it out a little longer than necessary as Sissy and Bethel seemed to be totally in the dark and unable the find clues. The dead body was found in the first chapter of the book so readers have the rest of the book to read before the whodunnit is revealed. I went back and forth as to whether I should give a five star or four star rating but in the end went for the lower rating. I did like the characters that were a part of this story . The dog Duke was mostly in the back ground and had no part in solving the murder. Romance wanted to be a part of this story but this may lead into something more in the next book of the series. I will be waiting patiently for book three of the series to be released.
Readers of Cozy Mystery, Amish Fiction and fans of Amy Lillard would enjoy this book. It’s scheduled to be released on 6/27/23.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are entirely my own.
#AMurderofAspicProportions#NetGalley
I thought this cozy mystery was witty and cute. Not that I’m saying murder is cute but the way the Author tells the story will make readers want to giggle a time or two. I felt like the story may have dragged it out a little longer than necessary as Sissy and Bethel seemed to be totally in the dark and unable the find clues. The dead body was found in the first chapter of the book so readers have the rest of the book to read before the whodunnit is revealed. I went back and forth as to whether I should give a five star or four star rating but in the end went for the lower rating. I did like the characters that were a part of this story . The dog Duke was mostly in the back ground and had no part in solving the murder. Romance wanted to be a part of this story but this may lead into something more in the next book of the series. I will be waiting patiently for book three of the series to be released.
Readers of Cozy Mystery, Amish Fiction and fans of Amy Lillard would enjoy this book. It’s scheduled to be released on 6/27/23.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are entirely my own.
#AMurderofAspicProportions#NetGalley
March 20, 2023
Thanks to #NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book. This is a new author and a new series for me. I found the book to be just ok. It wasn't horrible but it definitely would not have me rushing out to get the next book in the series. Sissy is likable enough, although her worry about hiding her alter ego gets annoying, but it's a fish out of water trope that isn't totally successful as the Amish relatives seem to break the rules whenever it's convenient. The mystery was ok but dragged on forever. This was not a wonderful book, but it wasn't awful either, basically just a cozy "lite".
June 22, 2023
We once again get to visit Yoder, Kansas where Sissy Yoder has returned to help her aunt run her Sunshine Cafe. Glad that life had settle some after the last murder, Sissy is looking forward to a quiet summer writing her advice column and managing the cafe. However, after stopping to get some of Walt Summer's To Die For Tomatoes, she and her aunt find him dead in his shed. Who would want to kill the best tomato farmer in the county? Suspects come out in droves once it is established that Walt was anything but nice. Will Sissy find the real killer?
I love this series because the setting is small town America where everyone knows everyone's business. Sissy, her dog Duke, and her family and friends bring us back to when times were simpler and a town actually helped one another. I received an advanced copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.
I love this series because the setting is small town America where everyone knows everyone's business. Sissy, her dog Duke, and her family and friends bring us back to when times were simpler and a town actually helped one another. I received an advanced copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.
March 27, 2023
This is the perfect gentle read - slow-paced, easy-going, with touches of humor, and the lightest of romance. Lots of fascinating information about Amish life. And manure, which I wasn’t expecting but was oddly interesting as well. Sissy's a likable MC and her Yorkie, Duke, is adorable. Overall a fun read.
March 9, 2023
The middle of this book goes around in circles, not much gets done. I’m not sure what Aspic has to do with the story. I did find the plot line to be interesting and unusual, I mean who would think of using manure as a motive. The characters are great. #AMurderofAspicProportions #NetGalley
April 14, 2023
A Murder of Aspic Proportions is author, Amy Lillard's, second book in the Sunflower Café Mystery series. I enjoyed this charming story just as much as the first one, Dairy, Dairy, Quite Contrary. One does not have to read the first book (but why wouldn't one?!!) as the author fills in background information so the reader is not questioning the past events. Books that are filled with a community of friends and neighbors who seem to know everyone else's business are such fun to read and this one does not disappoint. Sissy has been in Yoder, Kansas, helping her Aunt Bethel at the Sunflower Café and once again they stumble on a dead body and are quickly drawn into trying to solve the mystery of who murdered one of the most unliked men in the community. The challenge is not only narrowing down the number of suspects on the list but trying to refute the confession of a young Amish girl. The author kept me guessing as to the culprit right to the end. Readers who enjoy amateur sleuth mysteries will want to be sure to read A Murder of Aspic Proportions. I read a complimentary copy of the book and was not required to write a positive review. The opinions are my own.
November 1, 2025
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Sissy Yoder is running her Aunt Bethel’s café with a lot of input from her aunt. She knows they have to keep the menu fresh using crops they can purchase locally. In that effort, Sissy takes the woman and her Yorkie, Duke, to check out some tomatoes said to be “To Die For”. Bethel is less enthused. They arrive at Walt Summers’ farmstand, but the man appears to be missing. After a quick search, they find him in the garden shed, and he isn’t going to be selling any tomatoes today or ever. Walt Summers is dead, definitely murdered.
It looks like there are a bushel of suspects, but Deputy Earl Berry gets a surprising confession from someone who wouldn’t hurt a fly. Soon, Sissy and Aunt Bethel are traveling all over to find out why the person confessed and trying to dig up clues to pick the actual killer and haul them to a jail cell.
Sissy is getting comfortable in her little Chicken Coop tiny house in Yoder, Kansas. She is still writing her advice column, pretending to be a seventy-five-year-old woman with no one yet the wiser. Her days are filled with running the café and giving Duke, her Yorkie, as much attention as possible. Bethel surprised me. She gets her cast off in the first chapter and is ready to get back to her life. She seems to start to enjoy riding around in Sissy’s “little car”, a Fiat convertible. Enjoy may be a little strong, but she instigated places to go to and people to see to move their investigation along, and didn’t give Sissy too much flak. We meet more Amish family, friends, and neighbors, too. Lizzy continues to be on bed/couch rest as the birth of her twins draws near. I enjoyed the Friday Family Supper night. There’s an open invitation for one and all to come to Bethel’s home. Sometimes the house is pretty crowded, others only a few relatives make an appearance. It brings people together to catch up with family and catch up on the murder investigation. It also allows Sissy to put more of her family history together.
I found Deputy Earl Berry frustrating. Yoder may be a small town, but accepting a confession without family or representation present was beyond the pale. Of course, it was the easy way out and required no additional effort from him. Thank God for Bethel and her push to get to the truth. The residents of Yoder fear the woman enough to answer her questions or put up with her rath. Sissy is happy to help in any way she can. I honed in on the guilty party early in the story, but it wasn’t easy for Sissy and Bethel. They were spinning their wheels, going nowhere a lot. The reveal was exciting and humorous. The ending made me smile.
A Murder of Aspic Proportions is a lighthearted, funny cozy mystery filled with unique characters, and a lot of talk about crops and fertilizer. It’s a story to pick up, relax, and escape into after a stressful day. Book three, A Murder for the Sages, is screaming even louder from my To-Be-Read shelf, now that I have read this one. I hope to get to it early in the new year.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Sissy Yoder is running her Aunt Bethel’s café with a lot of input from her aunt. She knows they have to keep the menu fresh using crops they can purchase locally. In that effort, Sissy takes the woman and her Yorkie, Duke, to check out some tomatoes said to be “To Die For”. Bethel is less enthused. They arrive at Walt Summers’ farmstand, but the man appears to be missing. After a quick search, they find him in the garden shed, and he isn’t going to be selling any tomatoes today or ever. Walt Summers is dead, definitely murdered.
It looks like there are a bushel of suspects, but Deputy Earl Berry gets a surprising confession from someone who wouldn’t hurt a fly. Soon, Sissy and Aunt Bethel are traveling all over to find out why the person confessed and trying to dig up clues to pick the actual killer and haul them to a jail cell.
Sissy is getting comfortable in her little Chicken Coop tiny house in Yoder, Kansas. She is still writing her advice column, pretending to be a seventy-five-year-old woman with no one yet the wiser. Her days are filled with running the café and giving Duke, her Yorkie, as much attention as possible. Bethel surprised me. She gets her cast off in the first chapter and is ready to get back to her life. She seems to start to enjoy riding around in Sissy’s “little car”, a Fiat convertible. Enjoy may be a little strong, but she instigated places to go to and people to see to move their investigation along, and didn’t give Sissy too much flak. We meet more Amish family, friends, and neighbors, too. Lizzy continues to be on bed/couch rest as the birth of her twins draws near. I enjoyed the Friday Family Supper night. There’s an open invitation for one and all to come to Bethel’s home. Sometimes the house is pretty crowded, others only a few relatives make an appearance. It brings people together to catch up with family and catch up on the murder investigation. It also allows Sissy to put more of her family history together.
I found Deputy Earl Berry frustrating. Yoder may be a small town, but accepting a confession without family or representation present was beyond the pale. Of course, it was the easy way out and required no additional effort from him. Thank God for Bethel and her push to get to the truth. The residents of Yoder fear the woman enough to answer her questions or put up with her rath. Sissy is happy to help in any way she can. I honed in on the guilty party early in the story, but it wasn’t easy for Sissy and Bethel. They were spinning their wheels, going nowhere a lot. The reveal was exciting and humorous. The ending made me smile.
A Murder of Aspic Proportions is a lighthearted, funny cozy mystery filled with unique characters, and a lot of talk about crops and fertilizer. It’s a story to pick up, relax, and escape into after a stressful day. Book three, A Murder for the Sages, is screaming even louder from my To-Be-Read shelf, now that I have read this one. I hope to get to it early in the new year.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
June 23, 2023
Sissy had a super unlikely sleuthing buddy in this case where her Amish cousin had confessed to a murder everyone knew she didn't commit. She and Aunt Bethel set out to find the real killer knowing there's no way Emma did this. Bethel surprised me by initiating trips to either visit Emma in jail or talking to possible suspects. And that little stinker Bethel's secretly a fan of Agent Gibbs, who knew? I'm betting there's lots of secrets we don't know about this mysterious little woman who I'm pretty sure Sissy wishes was a teeny bit more loving.
The showdown was almost funny in parts, you'll see when you read it. Sissy had a side story going on concerning a new hot guy in town, but I'm pretty sure nothing's gonna come of that. She's not even sure if she thinks of Gavin in that way. At least he's a good friend to her which is what she needed still being fairly new to the town. I think it's pretty cool though how Sissy found all these people she's related to and really took to them and enjoyed their get-togethers. I'm definitely hoping another book comes out! It's available Tuesday, June 27, 2023.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
The showdown was almost funny in parts, you'll see when you read it. Sissy had a side story going on concerning a new hot guy in town, but I'm pretty sure nothing's gonna come of that. She's not even sure if she thinks of Gavin in that way. At least he's a good friend to her which is what she needed still being fairly new to the town. I think it's pretty cool though how Sissy found all these people she's related to and really took to them and enjoyed their get-togethers. I'm definitely hoping another book comes out! It's available Tuesday, June 27, 2023.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
May 22, 2023
I must say I really enjoyed this fun read! In fact, I'm still smiling after finishing it late late night!
All I'm going to say is the last scene in this novel made me laugh so hard I thought I was going to you know what!
Poor Aunt Bethel always getting suckered into things! It's why I love her so much! She's a lot like me! A no nonsense person with a weird sense of humor! She tells it like it is and sometimes mumbles under her breath.
I definitely didn't like the sheriff! Ugh!
But Duke is the one who brings out the charm of this story along with Aunt Bethel. He's so sweet!
Lillard kept me guessing until almost the end and then I figured out who did it. She did a fantastic job with that part.
Lots of twists and turns that no one will see coming which is what made this book so much fun to read!
It has a little bit of everything for everyone in it!
I am looking forward to the next book in this series! I hope there's another one in the making!
I love the people of Yoder, Kansas.
They're like family!
5 stars for a job well done!
My thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own
All I'm going to say is the last scene in this novel made me laugh so hard I thought I was going to you know what!
Poor Aunt Bethel always getting suckered into things! It's why I love her so much! She's a lot like me! A no nonsense person with a weird sense of humor! She tells it like it is and sometimes mumbles under her breath.
I definitely didn't like the sheriff! Ugh!
But Duke is the one who brings out the charm of this story along with Aunt Bethel. He's so sweet!
Lillard kept me guessing until almost the end and then I figured out who did it. She did a fantastic job with that part.
Lots of twists and turns that no one will see coming which is what made this book so much fun to read!
It has a little bit of everything for everyone in it!
I am looking forward to the next book in this series! I hope there's another one in the making!
I love the people of Yoder, Kansas.
They're like family!
5 stars for a job well done!
My thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own
May 8, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley and publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review and opinions.
This is the second book in the Sunflower Café series. I give it a solid 3.5 stars. Some of the annoying bits of the first book were better this time. However, it still dragged on and the ending was very anticlimactic. If a wife expected her husband of murdering their neighbor and her friends husband would she really just pretend not to know? The entire scene at the end where we find out who really did it was just...blah for me. Simply taking a young Amish girl at her signed confession and not investigating at all because "I have a signed confession" is just disgusting police work.
It's a cozy book with family values but doesn't have me running to the store to purchase it.
This is the second book in the Sunflower Café series. I give it a solid 3.5 stars. Some of the annoying bits of the first book were better this time. However, it still dragged on and the ending was very anticlimactic. If a wife expected her husband of murdering their neighbor and her friends husband would she really just pretend not to know? The entire scene at the end where we find out who really did it was just...blah for me. Simply taking a young Amish girl at her signed confession and not investigating at all because "I have a signed confession" is just disgusting police work.
It's a cozy book with family values but doesn't have me running to the store to purchase it.
March 16, 2023
Although I don't enjoy Amy Lillard's mysteries as much as her Amish novels, I did find this one enjoyable. It's the second in the Sunflower Cafe series. As a true crime junkie, I find it hard to not judge the crime solving capabilities of the town sheriff, Earl Berry. Worthless is what he is. And annoying as a character. The heroine of the novel, Sissy, is new to the town of Yoder, and this is the second murder she has discovered in just a short period of time. Highly unlikely for a small town to have this much crime, and highly unlikely for the same person to discover both dead bodies. Usually I look to the end of the book to see "whodunit" because I'm impatient. I managed to not do that with this novel; however, I guessed it about halfway through. I've grown fond of the characters after reading two novels and am looking forward to the next in the series, if only to find out if Sissy and Gavin ever get together!
March 26, 2023
A Murder of Aspic Proportions ( A Sunflower Cafe’ Mystery #2 )
Amy Lillard
This is the second book in A Sunflower Cafe’ Mystery series. Love the story and the main character . I caught myself laughing throughout the story. Sissy Yoder is something else. Seems like wherever she goes dead bodies show up. Tomatoes are to die for in this small town in Yoder Kansas, family sticks together, and murder is in the air a long with a smell. Sissy has a secret, and she is trying to keep it a secret. Is she a suspect in another murder? I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Amy Lillard
This is the second book in A Sunflower Cafe’ Mystery series. Love the story and the main character . I caught myself laughing throughout the story. Sissy Yoder is something else. Seems like wherever she goes dead bodies show up. Tomatoes are to die for in this small town in Yoder Kansas, family sticks together, and murder is in the air a long with a smell. Sissy has a secret, and she is trying to keep it a secret. Is she a suspect in another murder? I was given a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
March 20, 2023
Sissy is ready for Summer and is planning some tasty uses for the best tomatoes in town…until Walt turns up dead. Now it’s up to Sissy to figure out who had it in for the man, though it might be easier to figure who didn’t! Can Sissy figure out whodunit or is she going to be crushed?
A good cozy set in the midwest with a cute Yorkie that will steal your heart as you try to figure out whodunit along with Sissy and Duke. I’ve read several other books by this author and really enjoyed them, so whenever I see a new book by her, It’s added to my list of books to read!
A good cozy set in the midwest with a cute Yorkie that will steal your heart as you try to figure out whodunit along with Sissy and Duke. I’ve read several other books by this author and really enjoyed them, so whenever I see a new book by her, It’s added to my list of books to read!
July 4, 2023
I can't decide what I like best about this book. Is it the murder mystery that needs to be solved, or the people who are trying to solve it? Sissy Yoder may have an Amish last name but her Amish experience has only been during the visits to her Amish relatives in Yoder, Kansas. How in the world has she ended up working for her Aunt Bethel at the Sunflower Cafe and living in a renovated Chicken Coop? So many questions to be answered and so many laughs along the way!
A Murder of Aspic Proportions is the second book in the Sunflower Cafe series but author Amy Lillard does a great job of filling in the background so that new readers never feel lost. I enjoyed the quirky characters, the cozy mystery, the subtle flirtation between Sissy and Gavin, and the interesting tidbits that advice columnist "Aunt Bess" offers at the beginning of each chapter. It was, however, the many laugh-out-loud moments that made this such an entertaining story. Lillard's signature humor makes this a perfect stress-relieving read and I recommend it to all who enjoy cozy mysteries.
I received an ARC from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
A Murder of Aspic Proportions is the second book in the Sunflower Cafe series but author Amy Lillard does a great job of filling in the background so that new readers never feel lost. I enjoyed the quirky characters, the cozy mystery, the subtle flirtation between Sissy and Gavin, and the interesting tidbits that advice columnist "Aunt Bess" offers at the beginning of each chapter. It was, however, the many laugh-out-loud moments that made this such an entertaining story. Lillard's signature humor makes this a perfect stress-relieving read and I recommend it to all who enjoy cozy mysteries.
I received an ARC from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
June 30, 2023
A murderously good time!
So happy to be back in Yoder, Kansas with Sissy, Duke & Aunt Bethel! Things are just settling down in Yoder after all the shenanigans in Dairy, Dairy, Quite Contrary when death comes knocking on a neighbors door. This time local farmer Walt Summers has fallen victim to a unknown killer - threatening their quiet small town lifestyle as well as the Sunflower Cafe’s tomato supply! 🍅 When a beloved member of the community confesses to the murder - Sissy smells something fishy. Now it’s up to Sissy to sleuth out the real killer before an innocent person ends up behind bars.
Full of hoot and a half humor, quirky characters, an adorable dog, possible budding romance, friendship, family, mysteries and murder - A Murder of Aspic Proportions is a great addition to the Sunflower Cafe Mystery Series!
Thank you to Kensington Books for the advanced copy!
So happy to be back in Yoder, Kansas with Sissy, Duke & Aunt Bethel! Things are just settling down in Yoder after all the shenanigans in Dairy, Dairy, Quite Contrary when death comes knocking on a neighbors door. This time local farmer Walt Summers has fallen victim to a unknown killer - threatening their quiet small town lifestyle as well as the Sunflower Cafe’s tomato supply! 🍅 When a beloved member of the community confesses to the murder - Sissy smells something fishy. Now it’s up to Sissy to sleuth out the real killer before an innocent person ends up behind bars.
Full of hoot and a half humor, quirky characters, an adorable dog, possible budding romance, friendship, family, mysteries and murder - A Murder of Aspic Proportions is a great addition to the Sunflower Cafe Mystery Series!
Thank you to Kensington Books for the advanced copy!
July 23, 2025
I’m a cozy mystery lover to my core and I’m telling you… try another one😂😭 maybe it just wasn’t for me but the Amish connection felt weird and disjointed, the actual plot was almost boring and the love interest thing was icky. Idk
August 12, 2023
I was going to give this book a higher rating and then explain my issues with it in my review.
Then I got to the ending.
Let me start at the beginning.
I found the book by scrolling through cozy mystery titles and didn't even realize it was the second book in a series. The blurb sounded interesting and the book started out well.
Then I discovered it's an "Amish mystery." The sleuth isn't Amish but her sidekick aunt is as are many characters.
A dear friend of mine was raised in an Amish community and suffered great abuse there, not just within her family but from the community at large when she tried to get help for the abuse. Add in enforced orthodoxy and pressure to "submit to God's will in all things," which seemed to include allowing the abuse to continue and I've never been able to look at any Amish community the same way.
Add in repeated, documented cases of animal abuse, puppy mills, etc. such articles like this https://www.animaladvocatesscpa.com/b... and I can't consider Amish communities "wholesome and charming."
Still, I kept reading the book because at first, it simply seemed like a setting. I've occasionally read books before that have done that -- the sleuth isn't Amish but lives in a community that includes Amish people -- and it was tolerable.
So I gritted my teeth and kept reading because the mystery was interesting, and I liked the characters.
Then the book veered into Amish philosophy, basically advertising and proselytizing for the Amish faith.
Ewwww.
At this point I was nearing the end of the book so I decided to stick it out to find out who did it and why.
It wasn't just a disappointment. It was my final straw.
The reason for the murder makes sense at first but if you stop to think about how the victim did the thing that incited their murder, it raises a lot of logistical questions. Worse, I was never convinced that discovering the thing that incited the murder would cause such sudden fury that it would lead to murder.
Then adding in insult to injury of a not-quite-play-fair mystery something dramatic happens that makes it seem like someone was severely hurt. They weren't but instead of coming across as something that brings relief, it felt like a cheap stunt.
I rarely give books a "did not like" rating. Even weak novels tend to have good moments that balance out the weaknesses. Except for the Amish proselytizing the book was a perfectly pleasant read, albeit with a lead that sometimes acted 10+ years younger than her 30something age. I was going to recommend it until that ending.
Even so, if you don't give the details of a mystery's resolution too much thought and you aren't reminded of nightmarish stories you've heard about the dark underbelly of Amish cultures, complete with animal abuse and appalling living conditions for animals that can even lead to permanent damage, then I guess it's worth reading. Me? I'll never touch another book in this series and based on the ending, I'll skip her other series, too.
Plus, since GoodReads doesn't give us a way to prevent an author from coming up in getaways or recommendations, giving a book 1 star is the best way to minimize the chances of coming across one again.
Then I got to the ending.
Let me start at the beginning.
I found the book by scrolling through cozy mystery titles and didn't even realize it was the second book in a series. The blurb sounded interesting and the book started out well.
Then I discovered it's an "Amish mystery." The sleuth isn't Amish but her sidekick aunt is as are many characters.
A dear friend of mine was raised in an Amish community and suffered great abuse there, not just within her family but from the community at large when she tried to get help for the abuse. Add in enforced orthodoxy and pressure to "submit to God's will in all things," which seemed to include allowing the abuse to continue and I've never been able to look at any Amish community the same way.
Add in repeated, documented cases of animal abuse, puppy mills, etc. such articles like this https://www.animaladvocatesscpa.com/b... and I can't consider Amish communities "wholesome and charming."
Still, I kept reading the book because at first, it simply seemed like a setting. I've occasionally read books before that have done that -- the sleuth isn't Amish but lives in a community that includes Amish people -- and it was tolerable.
So I gritted my teeth and kept reading because the mystery was interesting, and I liked the characters.
Then the book veered into Amish philosophy, basically advertising and proselytizing for the Amish faith.
Ewwww.
At this point I was nearing the end of the book so I decided to stick it out to find out who did it and why.
It wasn't just a disappointment. It was my final straw.
The reason for the murder makes sense at first but if you stop to think about how the victim did the thing that incited their murder, it raises a lot of logistical questions. Worse, I was never convinced that discovering the thing that incited the murder would cause such sudden fury that it would lead to murder.
Then adding in insult to injury of a not-quite-play-fair mystery something dramatic happens that makes it seem like someone was severely hurt. They weren't but instead of coming across as something that brings relief, it felt like a cheap stunt.
I rarely give books a "did not like" rating. Even weak novels tend to have good moments that balance out the weaknesses. Except for the Amish proselytizing the book was a perfectly pleasant read, albeit with a lead that sometimes acted 10+ years younger than her 30something age. I was going to recommend it until that ending.
Even so, if you don't give the details of a mystery's resolution too much thought and you aren't reminded of nightmarish stories you've heard about the dark underbelly of Amish cultures, complete with animal abuse and appalling living conditions for animals that can even lead to permanent damage, then I guess it's worth reading. Me? I'll never touch another book in this series and based on the ending, I'll skip her other series, too.
Plus, since GoodReads doesn't give us a way to prevent an author from coming up in getaways or recommendations, giving a book 1 star is the best way to minimize the chances of coming across one again.
June 27, 2023
A Murder Of Aspic Proportions by Amy Lillard
Book 2 of 2: A Sunflower Café Mystery
Set in small-town Kansas, USA Today bestselling author Amy Lillard’s Sunshine Café Mystery series features a twenty-something advice columnist turned café manager and sleuth, her tiny dog with a big personality, farm-fresh produce—and murder!
Professional advice columnist turned café manager and amateur sleuth Sissy Yoder is adjusting to life in her parents’ small but not-so-sleepy former hometown of Yoder, Kansas, where family is plentiful, the tomatoes are “to die for”—and murder is often in season . . .
Twenty-something Sissy Yoder never imagined herself running her Aunt Bethel’s café, but her help is needed, so she’s making a go of it. And she must admit that life in tiny Yoder has been anything but dull–she’s already solved one homicide—after being named the prime suspect in the case!
Enjoying a peaceful respite after all that excitement, Sissy just wants to write her advice column, hang out with her loyal Yorkie, Duke, and procure some of local farmer Walt Summers’ scrumptious “To Die For” tomatoes for the Sunshine Café’s menu. But when the unsavory Summers–resented by just about everyone in town–turns up murdered in his garden shed, it’s up to Sissy to roll up her sleeves, dig for some clues, and weed out the culprit . . .
This is Sissy Yoder, Aunt Bethel Yoder and Emma's story.
“ ‘To Die For Tomatoes One Quarter Mile Ahead.’ ” Sissy read the sign as she and her aunt, Bethel Yoder, passed by. Usually, Sissy was hard pressed to get her aunt to ride around in her “little car,” as Bethel called the convertible Fiat, but today she didn’t have a choice. Not since Sissy offered to drive Bethel to her doctor appointment to have her cast removed in front of witnesses.
Enjoying a peaceful respite after all that excitement, Sissy just wants to write her advice column, hang out with her loyal Yorkie, Duke, and procure some of local farmer Walt Summers’ scrumptious “To Die For” tomatoes for the Sunshine Café’s menu.
I recommend reading.
A Murder Of Aspic Proportions by Amy Lillard is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Amy Lillard.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
Book 2 of 2: A Sunflower Café Mystery
Set in small-town Kansas, USA Today bestselling author Amy Lillard’s Sunshine Café Mystery series features a twenty-something advice columnist turned café manager and sleuth, her tiny dog with a big personality, farm-fresh produce—and murder!
Professional advice columnist turned café manager and amateur sleuth Sissy Yoder is adjusting to life in her parents’ small but not-so-sleepy former hometown of Yoder, Kansas, where family is plentiful, the tomatoes are “to die for”—and murder is often in season . . .
Twenty-something Sissy Yoder never imagined herself running her Aunt Bethel’s café, but her help is needed, so she’s making a go of it. And she must admit that life in tiny Yoder has been anything but dull–she’s already solved one homicide—after being named the prime suspect in the case!
Enjoying a peaceful respite after all that excitement, Sissy just wants to write her advice column, hang out with her loyal Yorkie, Duke, and procure some of local farmer Walt Summers’ scrumptious “To Die For” tomatoes for the Sunshine Café’s menu. But when the unsavory Summers–resented by just about everyone in town–turns up murdered in his garden shed, it’s up to Sissy to roll up her sleeves, dig for some clues, and weed out the culprit . . .
This is Sissy Yoder, Aunt Bethel Yoder and Emma's story.
“ ‘To Die For Tomatoes One Quarter Mile Ahead.’ ” Sissy read the sign as she and her aunt, Bethel Yoder, passed by. Usually, Sissy was hard pressed to get her aunt to ride around in her “little car,” as Bethel called the convertible Fiat, but today she didn’t have a choice. Not since Sissy offered to drive Bethel to her doctor appointment to have her cast removed in front of witnesses.
Enjoying a peaceful respite after all that excitement, Sissy just wants to write her advice column, hang out with her loyal Yorkie, Duke, and procure some of local farmer Walt Summers’ scrumptious “To Die For” tomatoes for the Sunshine Café’s menu.
I recommend reading.
A Murder Of Aspic Proportions by Amy Lillard is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Amy Lillard.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
June 13, 2023
A Murder of Aspic Proportions by Amy Lillard is a cute, lighthearted cozy mystery. Amy Lillard has a casual writing style. It is reminiscent of talking with an old, Southern friend. The story moves along at a good pace. There is a cast of quirky characters that includes Sissy Yoder, Aunt Bethel, Lizzie, Gavin Wainwright, and indolent Earl Berry. Sissy Yoder’s temporary stay in Yoder, Kansas may become permanent. She is discovering that she likes life in the small town. Sissy especially likes the Chicken Coop, her tiny home that she shares with her diminutive companion, a Yorkie named Duke. Sissy is getting to know her Amish relatives as well. She has a fondness for her Lizzie who is on bedrest awaiting the birth of fraternal twins. Aunt Bethel is quite a character. She is a bit of a grump, but Bethel loves her family. The mystery was simple and frustrating. Emma, a young Amish woman, confesses to the crime. Deputy Earl Berry should not be in charge of a donut shop much less a town. That he would let Emma confess without a lawyer or a parent present is appalling (it is a small town, and he should know that Emma could not have committed the crime). Earl Berry does no investigating (why is this man an officer of the law). I can understand why Bethel feels the need to clear Emma. Sissy, of course, is happy to tag along and help (plus, she has the car). The mystery is one that can be solved early in the book. The reason why is mentioned many times. The reveal was anticlimactic and unsatisfying. I did feel that A Murder of Aspic Proportions was a little long. Fifty pages could have easily been shaved off. There is repetition of information (Sissy’s convertible Fiat is mentioned eleven times, Duke is mentioned by name over fifty times, her column alias at least eight times). There is humor in the story which keeps things light. A Murder of Aspic Proportions is the second A Sunflower Café Mystery. It can be read as a standalone since the author provides the necessary background information on the main characters. A Murder of Aspic Proportions is a cute story that is good to read when you need something to lighten your mood or brighten a rainy afternoon. A Murder of Aspic Proportions is an upbeat tale with a snuffed-out farmer, a cozy convertible, an idle deputy, a false confession, stolen tomato plants, futile fertilizer, and a sleuthing Sissy.
June 23, 2023
A Murder of Aspic Proportions
(Sunflower Cafe 2)
Amy Lillard
Amy Lillard aka Amy Louellen is a fairly prolific writer with over 60 books written. She writes mysteries, romance, contemporaries, and westerns.
Sissy and Aunt Bethel are on the way from getting her cast removed. Sissy and Josie want to add to the menu, so she decides to take her aunt test tomatoes. Sissy notices a road sign for To Die for Tomatoes. After Sissy comments, Aunt Bethel agrees with the sentiment. Summers’ Tomato Farm in Yoder, Kansas, is the home of these amazing tomatoes. It’s run by Walt Summers. The stand was empty upon arrival so Bethel and Sissy took a look around only to find Walt dead in the shed!
Sissy feels because the police detective is incompetent, that she must solve the crime!
An innocent girl's life hangs in the balance.
This book has me on the fence. I like the mystery, but I don’t really like the characters. I found that the main character Sissy left me vacillating between annoyed and depressed. Honestly, I think this book should be called an Amish Christian cozy. And while there are some great Christian cozies this is not one that makes my top 10. Sissy was just too hard for me to really like as a character. I did not read the previous book Dairy, Dairy, Quite Contrary, so it’s possible I missed something character-wise. Again, the mystery itself was solid and interesting. The characters are just not for me.
2.5 stars
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC.
#Netgalley #AMurderofAspicProportions #SunflowerCafe #AmyLillard #Amish #cozy
(Sunflower Cafe 2)
Amy Lillard
Amy Lillard aka Amy Louellen is a fairly prolific writer with over 60 books written. She writes mysteries, romance, contemporaries, and westerns.
Sissy and Aunt Bethel are on the way from getting her cast removed. Sissy and Josie want to add to the menu, so she decides to take her aunt test tomatoes. Sissy notices a road sign for To Die for Tomatoes. After Sissy comments, Aunt Bethel agrees with the sentiment. Summers’ Tomato Farm in Yoder, Kansas, is the home of these amazing tomatoes. It’s run by Walt Summers. The stand was empty upon arrival so Bethel and Sissy took a look around only to find Walt dead in the shed!
Sissy feels because the police detective is incompetent, that she must solve the crime!
An innocent girl's life hangs in the balance.
This book has me on the fence. I like the mystery, but I don’t really like the characters. I found that the main character Sissy left me vacillating between annoyed and depressed. Honestly, I think this book should be called an Amish Christian cozy. And while there are some great Christian cozies this is not one that makes my top 10. Sissy was just too hard for me to really like as a character. I did not read the previous book Dairy, Dairy, Quite Contrary, so it’s possible I missed something character-wise. Again, the mystery itself was solid and interesting. The characters are just not for me.
2.5 stars
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC.
#Netgalley #AMurderofAspicProportions #SunflowerCafe #AmyLillard #Amish #cozy
June 28, 2023
You have a very small town of Yoder, Kansas whose residents include both Amish and English. Everyone seems to know everyone else in this town and their personal business most of the time. Imagine a male resident being murdered on his own property! This particular person, Walt Summers, has no friends and is despised by most everyone in town and surrounding areas. The fun part of this book is the fact that there are multiple suspects with individual motives for wanting him dead. Enter amateur sleuths Sissy Yoder and her Aunt Bethel. They are in a time crunch because their sweet, tiny Emma has signed a confession and is in jail. No way they said could she have done it! Add in a tiny convertible and an even tinier yorkie dog both owned by Sissy and a fun story is sure to emerge. If you’re not into Amish fiction, no worries because this does not center around the Amish faith.
I think I’ll go now and make me a “hot” tomato sandwich on fresh bread and mayonnaise. And of course hot, black coffee.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to write a review.
I think I’ll go now and make me a “hot” tomato sandwich on fresh bread and mayonnaise. And of course hot, black coffee.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to write a review.
July 10, 2023
A MURDER OF ASPIC PROPORTIONS was a quick paced cozy mystery. It's the second book in the A SUNFLOWER CAFE MYSTERY series and it was nice being back in small town Yoder, Kansas where many of the Amish inhabitants also have the last name of Yoder. Sissy and her aunt, who owns the Sunflower Café, are front and center as they are playing at amateur sleuths much to the chagrin of the police.
The story has many stories being told and is filled with clues and suspects. But why are we bothering to solve the crime when a signed confession has already been given by a most unlikely suspect? The story has a nice flow with some laugh out loud moments. We get to solve the mystery along with Sissy, her aunt and others as gossip abounds and food is always being served. There was closure with the solving of the crime in an unexpected manner. I can't wait to see what Sissy and the others get up to next. The title and cover drew me in and I love the Aunt Bess sayings at the beginning of each chapter.
Ms. Lillard is an author whose books I enjoy. I look forward to reading what she pens next.
The story has many stories being told and is filled with clues and suspects. But why are we bothering to solve the crime when a signed confession has already been given by a most unlikely suspect? The story has a nice flow with some laugh out loud moments. We get to solve the mystery along with Sissy, her aunt and others as gossip abounds and food is always being served. There was closure with the solving of the crime in an unexpected manner. I can't wait to see what Sissy and the others get up to next. The title and cover drew me in and I love the Aunt Bess sayings at the beginning of each chapter.
Ms. Lillard is an author whose books I enjoy. I look forward to reading what she pens next.
July 6, 2023
This fun and intriguing cozy mystery is set in the small town of Yoder, Kansas—a community of “English” and Amish folks who work together and accept each other’s differing ways of life. A hub of the community is the Sunflower Cafe. Sissy Yoder has moved to Yoder to help her aunt run the cafe and is finding her place in both the cafe and the community. At least, all was going well for Sissy until she found herself at the scene of yet another murder and is once more a suspect. As Sissy seeks to clear her name, the list of suspects grows.
I loved the quirky people in the community and humor that was sprinkled throughout the story. The mystery itself is interesting. I changed my mind a couple of times about where the story was headed, and found myself reading “just another chapter” to see what happened next. I’m already looking forward to the next book in this series to see what happens next for Sissy.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I loved the quirky people in the community and humor that was sprinkled throughout the story. The mystery itself is interesting. I changed my mind a couple of times about where the story was headed, and found myself reading “just another chapter” to see what happened next. I’m already looking forward to the next book in this series to see what happens next for Sissy.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
July 7, 2023
A Murder of Aspic Proportions is the second book in the A Sunflower Café Mystery series.
Sissy Yoder finds herself running her Aunt Bethel's Cafe, but she also finds herself super sleuthing.
Yoder, Kansas has all the small-town charm, a popular cafe, a fierce produce competition to produce the best tomatoes, but one thing it has that's not charming is a murder needing solved.
When a tomato grower, the most unliked man is town is found dead no one seems too surprised. There are many in the town who could have had a reason to do him in. When a young Amish woman admits to the crime Sissy finds herself taking the law into her own hands and trying to find out if she really did it and who she's trying to protect. I loved Duke's character, he's Sissy's tiny dog with a huge personality.
The ending of the story was surprising and quite funny. I recommend reading these in order. I really enjoyed this cozy mystery and I hope this series continues.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Sissy Yoder finds herself running her Aunt Bethel's Cafe, but she also finds herself super sleuthing.
Yoder, Kansas has all the small-town charm, a popular cafe, a fierce produce competition to produce the best tomatoes, but one thing it has that's not charming is a murder needing solved.
When a tomato grower, the most unliked man is town is found dead no one seems too surprised. There are many in the town who could have had a reason to do him in. When a young Amish woman admits to the crime Sissy finds herself taking the law into her own hands and trying to find out if she really did it and who she's trying to protect. I loved Duke's character, he's Sissy's tiny dog with a huge personality.
The ending of the story was surprising and quite funny. I recommend reading these in order. I really enjoyed this cozy mystery and I hope this series continues.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
June 24, 2023
The second Sunflower Cafe mystery is a cozy mystery that proceeds at a relaxed pace. The familial interactions are dominant in the story. The reader gets to follow Sissy’s cousin Lizzy’s pregnancy to its conclusion.
There isn’t really much investigating in the regular sense. Sissy and her Amish aunt Bethel go poking around, but don’t really find much to clarify the situation. Despite Sissy’s concern for Emma sitting in jail, she doesn’t solve the murder of Walt Summers. It’s more a case of stumbling onto the solution.
The author does weave in all the clues that the characters need to get to the solution. I saw it coming but kind of hoped the answer wouldn’t be what I thought. I think you have to be a farmer to understand.
I was a little disappointed that Sissy and Bethel didn’t find another source for tomatoes and have the tomato recipes at the cafe be something that was worked into the story.
Thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to review the book.
There isn’t really much investigating in the regular sense. Sissy and her Amish aunt Bethel go poking around, but don’t really find much to clarify the situation. Despite Sissy’s concern for Emma sitting in jail, she doesn’t solve the murder of Walt Summers. It’s more a case of stumbling onto the solution.
The author does weave in all the clues that the characters need to get to the solution. I saw it coming but kind of hoped the answer wouldn’t be what I thought. I think you have to be a farmer to understand.
I was a little disappointed that Sissy and Bethel didn’t find another source for tomatoes and have the tomato recipes at the cafe be something that was worked into the story.
Thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to review the book.
June 29, 2023
A Murder of Aspic Proportions is the second book in the Sunshine Café Mystery series. The main character, Sissy, is trying to figure out who murdered a local farmer who was not very popular. Sissy is an adorable character who works at the local café for her aunt. She’s new to town and is getting reacquainted with her extended Amish family and making new friends. She has a sweet little dog who loves to come along as Sissy investigates.
The mystery is well thought out and contains plenty of suspects. Her aunt, who is a bit cranky but lovable, is really into solving this murder with Sissy. They live in a small town and it is fun getting to know the locals. I’m not familiar with Amish culture so I’ve enjoyed learning about that too. The book left me feeling good at the conclusion, and throughout reading it. That is always the best sign for me of a series I want to continue reading. I’m looking forward to the next in the series!
The mystery is well thought out and contains plenty of suspects. Her aunt, who is a bit cranky but lovable, is really into solving this murder with Sissy. They live in a small town and it is fun getting to know the locals. I’m not familiar with Amish culture so I’ve enjoyed learning about that too. The book left me feeling good at the conclusion, and throughout reading it. That is always the best sign for me of a series I want to continue reading. I’m looking forward to the next in the series!
May 27, 2023
This is the second book in the new cozy series "Sunflower Cafe Mystery Series". This is the perfect cozy series with all the right cozy elements that we cozy readers love. Set in small town Kansas with endearing charcters amid well crafted sleuthing this is a enjoyable series from start to finish.
We return to Yoder Kansas and Sissy Yoder who is managing her Aunts down home style cafe and hoping to expand her advice column and sleuthing . When a neferious disliked man in their small town is murdered Sissy is determined to solve her second case.. This case is important to her as a sweet local Amish woman has confessed to save another. The sleuth was enjoyable and well plotted from beginning to conclusion. I loved the charcters and how Sissy fits in to her hometown. This series has much potential and I look forward to the next in series., Well done to the author.
We return to Yoder Kansas and Sissy Yoder who is managing her Aunts down home style cafe and hoping to expand her advice column and sleuthing . When a neferious disliked man in their small town is murdered Sissy is determined to solve her second case.. This case is important to her as a sweet local Amish woman has confessed to save another. The sleuth was enjoyable and well plotted from beginning to conclusion. I loved the charcters and how Sissy fits in to her hometown. This series has much potential and I look forward to the next in series., Well done to the author.
June 28, 2023
Sissie's most recent career was as an advice columnist in a Tulsa newspaper, now she is on hiatus from that and trying to help out her curmudgeonly aunt at her cafe in Yoder, Kansas.
Helping included driving her aunt as needed in her small car instead of borrowing a tractor which is the usual transport with an engine. While they were out they inadvertently came upon a fairly recent murder of a man who seems to have been almost universally despised. The local law is a bungling braggart, but a very nice young Amish girl confesses and is hauled off to jail. Sissie and her aunt know that this is misplaced loyalty and begin their sleuthing to find the CORRECT villain. Great characters, atmospheric descriptions, messy red herrings, and corkscrew plot twists. Loved it!
I requested and received a free e-book copy from Kensington Books/Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you!
Helping included driving her aunt as needed in her small car instead of borrowing a tractor which is the usual transport with an engine. While they were out they inadvertently came upon a fairly recent murder of a man who seems to have been almost universally despised. The local law is a bungling braggart, but a very nice young Amish girl confesses and is hauled off to jail. Sissie and her aunt know that this is misplaced loyalty and begin their sleuthing to find the CORRECT villain. Great characters, atmospheric descriptions, messy red herrings, and corkscrew plot twists. Loved it!
I requested and received a free e-book copy from Kensington Books/Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you!
October 19, 2023
Columnist Sissy Yoder has returned to Yoder, Kansas, to help her pregnant cousin and the family's Sunshine Cafe. But when a local tomato farmer is murdered, another cousin confesses. Sissy and her aunt Bethel, both amateur sleuths, decide to solve the case. They face quite a challenge that ends in quite a mess.
This book is the second in a series but could stand alone. However, there are tons of characters that are difficult to keep straight. I found that distracting.
The romance is sweet. I appreciate that Sissy knows her mind and doesn't date just to have a man. She's a strong woman in her own right.
Readers may appreciate the insights into Amish culture in Kansas. The author is compassionate about explaining various aspects of life, family, work, and relationships among church members.
I probably wouldn't read more books in this series, but it is cute.
This book is the second in a series but could stand alone. However, there are tons of characters that are difficult to keep straight. I found that distracting.
The romance is sweet. I appreciate that Sissy knows her mind and doesn't date just to have a man. She's a strong woman in her own right.
Readers may appreciate the insights into Amish culture in Kansas. The author is compassionate about explaining various aspects of life, family, work, and relationships among church members.
I probably wouldn't read more books in this series, but it is cute.
April 22, 2023
We are back with Sissy Yoder, and she is still helping out her Aunt Bethel at the Cafe in Yoder Kansas! The place is full of Yoder's, and most are related to Sissy, even if she doesn't really know them. Her parents had left the faith, and she is now reconnecting with them.
Now this is the second book in this series, and again Sissy discovers a body! Is she again a suspect? Well, we are on a journey for answer, and enjoy the memorable people of this town, along with a lesson on fertilizer!
Could there also be a romance about to start for Sissy? Guess I'll wonder about that as I look forward to the next book in this series!
A fun read!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.
Now this is the second book in this series, and again Sissy discovers a body! Is she again a suspect? Well, we are on a journey for answer, and enjoy the memorable people of this town, along with a lesson on fertilizer!
Could there also be a romance about to start for Sissy? Guess I'll wonder about that as I look forward to the next book in this series!
A fun read!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Kensington, and was not required to give a positive review.
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