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Courtney Archer #3
Christmas Candy Corpse
Christmas has come early to the beautiful Poconos resort that's the setting for the American Baking Battle 's holiday special, where chef Courtney Archer is on hand to sample festive fare--and lift the lid off a killer . . . Six ambitious bakers are competing for glory and a grand prize, showcasing their most delicious candies, cookies, and desserts. Courtney detects some on-set grinchiness from her coworkers, especially judge Shannon Collins, but she's hoping the sweet treats will restore everyone's festive spirits. That Christmas wish swiftly fizzles when assistant director Kinzy Hummel is found strangled--with an apron from Shannon's new product line . . . Shannon insists she's innocent. Meanwhile, Kinzy had been under pressure from a disgruntled attorney to settle her late grandfather's estate. But could that be a motive for murder? The show must go on even as Courtney sifts through competitors and crew for likely suspects. But unless she can quickly get to the truth, there'll be another helping of homicide amid the pinwheel cookies and fruitcakes . . .
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Published November 30, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
November 13, 2021
Christmas Candy Cane Corpse by Rosemarie Ross is a 2021 Kensington publication.
The special holiday baking competition this year will feature six bakers who will be tasked to create festive candy, desserts, and cookies.
Tension immediately soars when Kinzy, the show’s director, is told her estranged grandfather has died and she has been named the executor of his will.
If that didn’t set a somber tone, Shannon’s entire personality has changed, and she refuses to confide in Courtney.
But when Kinzy is found strangled to death with one of Shannon's promotional aprons, her odd behavior makes her a definite person of interest.
To save the show, and to stand by Shannon, as she stood by her, Courtney decides she needs to find out who killed Kinzy…
This is the third installment of the Courtney Archer series, but it’s my first. I loved the ‘Food Network’ premise and the holiday candies, cookies, etc., gave the story the festive mood I love in a holiday themed story.
Because I had not read the first two installments, I was completely lost as to how the characters were connected to each other, who was a recurring character, and which characters were making a first- time appearance, which took me out of the story, in the beginning and made it hard to get into it.
Eventually, I caught on, for the most part, and was able to concentrate on the murder mystery part of the story, which despite Courtney’s tendency to toss out some pretty flimsy motives for the possible suspects, was pretty solid.
I did worry a bit about how much emphasis was placed on Shannon’s weight gain, but I’m sure this is common in any kind of television environment, but it felt very judgmental to me at times.
Other than that, the author did a good job of creating the atmosphere in reality show competitions, plus, I did not guess who the murderer was. The holiday theme was nicely done, as well, which was the main reason I chose this book.
Overall, the story has some flaws, but was enjoyable enough as a holiday mystery, but I doubt I'll continue with the series.
2.5 stars
The special holiday baking competition this year will feature six bakers who will be tasked to create festive candy, desserts, and cookies.
Tension immediately soars when Kinzy, the show’s director, is told her estranged grandfather has died and she has been named the executor of his will.
If that didn’t set a somber tone, Shannon’s entire personality has changed, and she refuses to confide in Courtney.
But when Kinzy is found strangled to death with one of Shannon's promotional aprons, her odd behavior makes her a definite person of interest.
To save the show, and to stand by Shannon, as she stood by her, Courtney decides she needs to find out who killed Kinzy…
This is the third installment of the Courtney Archer series, but it’s my first. I loved the ‘Food Network’ premise and the holiday candies, cookies, etc., gave the story the festive mood I love in a holiday themed story.
Because I had not read the first two installments, I was completely lost as to how the characters were connected to each other, who was a recurring character, and which characters were making a first- time appearance, which took me out of the story, in the beginning and made it hard to get into it.
Eventually, I caught on, for the most part, and was able to concentrate on the murder mystery part of the story, which despite Courtney’s tendency to toss out some pretty flimsy motives for the possible suspects, was pretty solid.
I did worry a bit about how much emphasis was placed on Shannon’s weight gain, but I’m sure this is common in any kind of television environment, but it felt very judgmental to me at times.
Other than that, the author did a good job of creating the atmosphere in reality show competitions, plus, I did not guess who the murderer was. The holiday theme was nicely done, as well, which was the main reason I chose this book.
Overall, the story has some flaws, but was enjoyable enough as a holiday mystery, but I doubt I'll continue with the series.
2.5 stars
February 10, 2022
4.5 stars
December 8, 2022
I really enjoy reading cozy mysteries especially ones with such a Christmas vibe as this one has.
A beautiful Poconos resort is the setting for the American Baking Battle’s holiday special. The contestants are excitedly whipping up their best holiday cakes, pies and cookies.
The grouchy baking judge is the prime suspect when an apron from her new baking line is found around the victim's neck. Who could have such an evil intent at Christmas time when the air is sweet with the scent of baked goods? Good plot that kept me guessing.
Pub Date 30 Nov 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
A beautiful Poconos resort is the setting for the American Baking Battle’s holiday special. The contestants are excitedly whipping up their best holiday cakes, pies and cookies.
The grouchy baking judge is the prime suspect when an apron from her new baking line is found around the victim's neck. Who could have such an evil intent at Christmas time when the air is sweet with the scent of baked goods? Good plot that kept me guessing.
Pub Date 30 Nov 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
May 17, 2023
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December 25, 2021
⭐⭐
I am going to keep my review for this book brief. I think the author did a good job with the mystery aspect, and the killer was a surprise to me. The reasoning, however, was far-fetched. The main issue I had with this book (besides none of the characters being at all likable) was the inordinate amount of fat shamming aimed towards Shannon because she gained some weight. I wish I had made a note every time someone mentioned her weight. Even the main character (Courtney) who is supposed to be a good friends thinks while they are having lunch together "Does she really need a whole friend appetizer platter before a steak dinner" <-- that was the nail in the coffin for me with this book.
*ARC Via NetGalley**
I am going to keep my review for this book brief. I think the author did a good job with the mystery aspect, and the killer was a surprise to me. The reasoning, however, was far-fetched. The main issue I had with this book (besides none of the characters being at all likable) was the inordinate amount of fat shamming aimed towards Shannon because she gained some weight. I wish I had made a note every time someone mentioned her weight. Even the main character (Courtney) who is supposed to be a good friends thinks while they are having lunch together "Does she really need a whole friend appetizer platter before a steak dinner" <-- that was the nail in the coffin for me with this book.
*ARC Via NetGalley**
May 3, 2022
3.5 Stars
Entertaining mystery. Some of the characters traits are a little annoying but their growth is getting better. Between Courtney's romance and the way they kept mentioning Shannon's weight made me feel like I was reading a YA novel. Again, the murderer was a little obvious. The actual reason wasn't but it all came together with a nice little bow at the end 🙂
Entertaining mystery. Some of the characters traits are a little annoying but their growth is getting better. Between Courtney's romance and the way they kept mentioning Shannon's weight made me feel like I was reading a YA novel. Again, the murderer was a little obvious. The actual reason wasn't but it all came together with a nice little bow at the end 🙂
December 12, 2021
Courtney is a delightful character in a cast of other delightful characters. Her latest exploits in Christmas Candy Corpse solidify her as a character of distinction, making her one of the most memorable cozy book characters in print. This Christmas-inspired story will make readers put down the holiday decorations, pick up some treats, and spend a few hours enjoying this delectable story. But what it won’t do, is make readers want to apply for a baking show or work for one!
Most problems in Courtney’s life can be solved with baked goods, candy, and other delicious sugar-infused delicacies, or so it seems. But something as unappetizing as murder during the Christmas season puts a sour flavor in her mouth. The contestants on the baking show are at each other’s throats and willing to do almost anything to win. When Courtney’s friend, Shannon, becomes a suspect in the murder of a crew member, she finds her desire to bake her problems away simply won’t help. Suspects and motives vary from sabotage, from the baking show competitors to family problems with an aggressive attorney, and disgruntled co-workers who are jealous and ambitious.
Christmas Candy Corpse finds Courtney tracking down a killer who is determined to stop her. Her life is turned upside down, and her career hangs in the balance. Courtney finds that her friend is the number one suspect, and it doesn’t help that Shannon is acting strange. The baking show contestants all have motives, and the clues change and in some cases, disappear. With a killer who could strike again at any moment, readers will find themselves captivated and thrilled with an outcome they didn’t see coming. In the final moments, Courtney reveals the killer, and the motive will leave readers speechless. Christmas baking shows will never be the same.
Most problems in Courtney’s life can be solved with baked goods, candy, and other delicious sugar-infused delicacies, or so it seems. But something as unappetizing as murder during the Christmas season puts a sour flavor in her mouth. The contestants on the baking show are at each other’s throats and willing to do almost anything to win. When Courtney’s friend, Shannon, becomes a suspect in the murder of a crew member, she finds her desire to bake her problems away simply won’t help. Suspects and motives vary from sabotage, from the baking show competitors to family problems with an aggressive attorney, and disgruntled co-workers who are jealous and ambitious.
Christmas Candy Corpse finds Courtney tracking down a killer who is determined to stop her. Her life is turned upside down, and her career hangs in the balance. Courtney finds that her friend is the number one suspect, and it doesn’t help that Shannon is acting strange. The baking show contestants all have motives, and the clues change and in some cases, disappear. With a killer who could strike again at any moment, readers will find themselves captivated and thrilled with an outcome they didn’t see coming. In the final moments, Courtney reveals the killer, and the motive will leave readers speechless. Christmas baking shows will never be the same.
February 6, 2022
Rounding up to 4 from 3 1/2 stars. The setting the story on a baking reality show felt realistic and interesting, but the interaction between the three main characters and some of their motivations felt false.
September 10, 2021
Loved reading this book and series
November 25, 2021
Christmas Candy Corpse is a very enjoyable third novel, chock full of madness and mayhem in the mystery series by Rosemarie Ross, featuring Courtney Archer. Although I haven't yet read book one, Cobblered to Death, I don’t think this spoilt my enjoyment of this particular instalment.
Courtney Archer is a reality TV cooking show host, despite the fact that she’s actually a paediatrician’s daughter. She is in the beautiful Poconos resort, the setting for the American Baking Battle’s holiday special, where six bakers are competing for a prize, showcasing their sugary delectables. But the jolly Christmas spirit wanes when assistant director Kinzy Hummel is found strangled with an apron...
Protagonist Courtney had a natural curiosity and the characters' banter is witty and fun. The opening chapters drew me into the story and captured my attention immediately. There was never a dull moment with a lot going on and the mystery itself was well thought out with enough misdirection to puzzle over the perpetrator's identity. With oodles of mouthwatering food descriptions, there was plenty to keep the reader entertained. The book had a natural, steady pace and I was totally engrossed until the reveal. Delightful and absorbing, Christmas Candy Corpse is a highly recommended, quick, light read for all cozy mystery fans.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
Courtney Archer is a reality TV cooking show host, despite the fact that she’s actually a paediatrician’s daughter. She is in the beautiful Poconos resort, the setting for the American Baking Battle’s holiday special, where six bakers are competing for a prize, showcasing their sugary delectables. But the jolly Christmas spirit wanes when assistant director Kinzy Hummel is found strangled with an apron...
Protagonist Courtney had a natural curiosity and the characters' banter is witty and fun. The opening chapters drew me into the story and captured my attention immediately. There was never a dull moment with a lot going on and the mystery itself was well thought out with enough misdirection to puzzle over the perpetrator's identity. With oodles of mouthwatering food descriptions, there was plenty to keep the reader entertained. The book had a natural, steady pace and I was totally engrossed until the reveal. Delightful and absorbing, Christmas Candy Corpse is a highly recommended, quick, light read for all cozy mystery fans.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
September 8, 2021
The American Baking Battle is shooting a holiday special and a few people seem to have a serious case of the Bah Humbugs. Courtney does her best to get Shannon to open up about what’s going on because she’s not her usual charming Southern self. Unfortunately, Courtney is not successful and when the assistant director is strangled with an apron from Shannon’s new line, Shannon becomes the prime suspect. Courtney knows Shannon didn’t do it, but her friend’s strange behavior isn’t helping her plea of innocence.
As they say, the show must go on, and Courtney is keeping an eye on her list of suspects, trying to find out who would want to harm the young woman and why. With a squirrelly contestant that seems to have a desire to stir up trouble and a creepy attorney who had threatened the young woman, there are more than a few suspects for the woman’s murder. It’s just like making a soufflé, Courtney needs to get her ingredients (motive, means, opportunity and hard evidence) lined up and time it just right or it could all come crashing down around her and cause her to make a fatal fall.
Hubby and I are foodies and love watching cooking competitions. Given this, I find this series really enjoyable! Always a great whodunit and enough red herrings to make you keep changing your mind as to who did it.
As they say, the show must go on, and Courtney is keeping an eye on her list of suspects, trying to find out who would want to harm the young woman and why. With a squirrelly contestant that seems to have a desire to stir up trouble and a creepy attorney who had threatened the young woman, there are more than a few suspects for the woman’s murder. It’s just like making a soufflé, Courtney needs to get her ingredients (motive, means, opportunity and hard evidence) lined up and time it just right or it could all come crashing down around her and cause her to make a fatal fall.
Hubby and I are foodies and love watching cooking competitions. Given this, I find this series really enjoyable! Always a great whodunit and enough red herrings to make you keep changing your mind as to who did it.
August 18, 2021
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own. Christmas Candy Corpse is the third book in the Courtney Archer mystery series by Rosemarie Ross. I thoroughly enjoyed the first two books in the series, and this one was another fun mystery. Courtney and her colleagues are once again participating in The American Baking Battle show. They hope this show goes off without a hitch, yet once again, a murder occurs on the set. Courtney's friend and one of the competition's judges, Shannon Collins, does not seem herself when she appears for the taping of the program. She appears short tempered, especially with assistant director Kinzy Hummel. So when Kinzy turns up murdered, strangled by an apron from Shannon's own line, Shannon is suddenly a murder suspect. Some of the six contestants in the competition also seem suspicious. As usual, Courtney takes it upon herself to search out clues and find the killer so she can clear her friend's name. As if this wasn't enough, Courtney is trying a little too hard to figure out if her producer Eric is just a friend or could be something more. There was an interesting twist at the end that made for a satisfying book. This is a fun series.
September 9, 2021
I absolutely love to read Christmas cozy mysteries. I read them over and over again, and Christmas Candy Corpse does not disappoint, and will be added to my favorite Christmas pile.
Courtney Archer is a good character, and with each book her self confidence grows. I like her sassy attitude and her sense of humor.
When her friend Shannon becomes a suspect in a murder investigation, Courtney is willing to do just about anything to prove her innocence.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#ChristmasCandyCorpse #NetGalley
Courtney Archer is a good character, and with each book her self confidence grows. I like her sassy attitude and her sense of humor.
When her friend Shannon becomes a suspect in a murder investigation, Courtney is willing to do just about anything to prove her innocence.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#ChristmasCandyCorpse #NetGalley
December 13, 2021
Courtney Archer is a filming a holiday version of The American Baking Battle at Coal Castle Resort. There is tension on the set as Shannon Collins, a judge for the baking competition, and the assistant director, Kinzy Hummel clash. Courtney has noticed that Shannon has put on some weight and her attitude has taken a nosedive. Courtney is unable to get Shannon to talk about what is bothering her. When Kinzy is found strangled with one of the aprons from Shannon’s new apron line, she becomes the prime suspect. If Courtney wants to save her new show, she needs to clear Shannon. She will need to be careful, or Courtney will end up being the next victim. Christmas Candy Corpse by Rosemarie Ross is the third A Courtney Archer Mystery. I recommend reading the series in order. It is the best way to get to know the characters and their relationships. Christmas Candy Corpse is an easy-to-read story. It moves at a good pace. There are numerous sweet temptations mentioned that will have you heading for your local bakery. I liked the challenges that has the characters doing treats to represent past, present, and future. The past sweet treats featured two items that many people will not have heard of or tasted (divinity and anise candy). I thought the author created an authentic experience of a television baking competition. I was not a fan of the references to Shannon’s weight gain. I knew there was a good reason for it, and it was not because she had developed a sweet tooth. I like how Shannon’s friends rallied around her when the truth was revealed. The mystery was simple. I knew who would die and who did the deed before the crime occurred. I kept hoping for a good twist to surprise me. Some of Courtney’s theories regarding the murder were half-baked. I like how the method of murder tied back to Shannon and the show. I enjoyed the holiday atmosphere. Christmas cozies are always fun to read and get me into spirit of the season. Christmas Candy Corpse is a lighthearted tale with sweet treats, an apron argument, an imperious mother, holiday happenings, a mounting midriff, a mysterious murder, and a curious chef.
December 7, 2022
I love a good cozy mystery, especially one that is holiday themed. I know that I need to take this genre of book less seriously and enjoy it for the fun time that it is.
However.
There were some glaringly problematic plot points in this book. Now, I haven't read the first two, but normally with cozy mysteries they can act as standalones. I did think the book did a good job of explaining who the characters were without completely retelling the previous plots and without leaving any important information out.
Courtney works on competitive baking TV in the Poconos. She is no stranger to murder and this time, it's the snarky Assistant Director who was murdered with one of the judges' (Shannon) aprons from her new apron line. Sounds very light and very fun and overall it was. But, Courtney, our main character, (and really every character) is obsessed with Shannon's weight. She's gained weight and now her wardrobe has been rendered useless because she's gained weight and is bigger because she gained weight. Get what I'm saying?
Overall a fun read, just could've done without a lot of the fatphobia.
However.
There were some glaringly problematic plot points in this book. Now, I haven't read the first two, but normally with cozy mysteries they can act as standalones. I did think the book did a good job of explaining who the characters were without completely retelling the previous plots and without leaving any important information out.
Courtney works on competitive baking TV in the Poconos. She is no stranger to murder and this time, it's the snarky Assistant Director who was murdered with one of the judges' (Shannon) aprons from her new apron line. Sounds very light and very fun and overall it was. But, Courtney, our main character, (and really every character) is obsessed with Shannon's weight. She's gained weight and now her wardrobe has been rendered useless because she's gained weight and is bigger because she gained weight. Get what I'm saying?
Overall a fun read, just could've done without a lot of the fatphobia.
November 12, 2021
What could be the motive for murdering an assistant director who had been under pressure from her disgruntled lawyer who was doing his job to help her settle her late grandfather’s estate?
Although this is the third book in the book series of Courtney Archer, the book has entertained me well as a first time reader. Although, I already have a hint who the person of interest is, the book still is a page-turner, and unbelievably engaging. I like Courtney Archer’s natural curiosity to solve the mystery. I devoured myself in this book overnight. I can’t hardly wait to know who the Christmas culprit is. It’s rewarding for me to validate my theories on each character.
I’m glad to have come across to this holiday-themed cozy mystery. It’s fun, quick and a relaxing read. It’s a good seasonal mystery book that will uplift one’s holiday spirit with combination of baking competition show, humor, romance and suspense.
Thank you so much @netgalley and @kensingtonbooks for this opportunity to enjoy a good read ARC in exchange of an unbiased feedback.
Although this is the third book in the book series of Courtney Archer, the book has entertained me well as a first time reader. Although, I already have a hint who the person of interest is, the book still is a page-turner, and unbelievably engaging. I like Courtney Archer’s natural curiosity to solve the mystery. I devoured myself in this book overnight. I can’t hardly wait to know who the Christmas culprit is. It’s rewarding for me to validate my theories on each character.
I’m glad to have come across to this holiday-themed cozy mystery. It’s fun, quick and a relaxing read. It’s a good seasonal mystery book that will uplift one’s holiday spirit with combination of baking competition show, humor, romance and suspense.
Thank you so much @netgalley and @kensingtonbooks for this opportunity to enjoy a good read ARC in exchange of an unbiased feedback.
December 25, 2021
The characters in Christmas Candy Corpse are fun and energetic. Courtney follows the clues until the mystery is solved. If you enjoy mysteries with surprises, you'll enjoy this story.
I won a copy of this book with no request to write a review.
I won a copy of this book with no request to write a review.
April 13, 2022
Courtney is thrilled to be back on the set of American Baking Battle for a last minute Christmas special. Winter in the Poconos is bound to be gorgeous and she'll be reuinted with her friends. Courtney is eager to discuss plans for her new show with Sharon too. Unfortunately it means cutting Thanksgiving with her cousin Caroline short and missing the kick-off of their family's annual toy drive for the children's hospital. When Courtney arrives at the resort, she discovers that all is not well on the set. Kinzie is heard fighting with someone over settling her late grandfather's estate. She refuses to up and leave to go back to Montanna. Not all the contestants are cooperative and Marley, an aging hippie, refuses to wear Shannon's new apron line. Shannon is furious! She's moody and always running off somewhere as soon as she's done filming. She's also gained weight and that causes problems for the wardrobe department. With Kinzy running the show, she is VERY unhappy with Shannon's behavior but doesn't handle it so well. With Shannon in a snit, it's up to Courtney to try to smooth ruffled feathers. It's fine as long as she doesn't stumble across another dead body... Famous last words. This time, it's someone she knows-Kinzy, stranged with one of Shannon's aprons! Courtney just KNOWS Sheriff Perry is subtly asking her to investigate. She promises Quentin she'll figure it out.
This series is just not for me. I figured out right away who the murderer was and why. I also figured out two possibilities for what was going on with Shannon and Courtney never figured out either. I'm not into mysteries where the heroine can't figure it out until she's very nearly killed. Courtney's father is a doctor yet she can't figure out what's wrong with Shannon? My father is also a doctor. I'm a woman, I have friends, family members... at the very least Victoria should have known. Both mysteries were sooo obvious! I kept waiting for Shannon to confide in Courtney. It took way too long. Not even the baking saved this book for me. The Christmas past, present and future challenges were a little weird and sound difficult.
Courtney is TSTL! She really is. She is sooo stubborn and sooo stupid. She insists Sheriff Perry WANTS her to investigate in spite of his repeated warnings not to. Eric asks her to keep out of it. She thinks she's clever because she solved two previous murders but she didn't really. She nearly lost her life because she stuck her nose where it didn't belong. Courtney can't seem to figure out what's wrong with her friend or find a time for a private chat. Apparently they only associate professionally and Courtney doesn't go knock on Shannon's hotel room door or call her to chat? She makes a lot of assumptions about what Shannon MIGHT be up to when it's none of her business. Courtney can't figure out her feelings for Eric and is hesitant to get involved in a romantic relationship-STILL. She does, at least, figure things out at the end. She's longing for her family and missing them especially at Christmas. The copyright date of the book is 2021 so I am sure the author wrote in her own feelings during the pandemic. We all missed our families and friends, especially on the holidays. Courtney's parents are in an undisclosed location working for Doctors Without Borders. She's an only child and misses their annual traditions.
Shannon is moody, irritable, has gained weight and gets upset whenever anyone suggests she's causing problems. Can't people understand and have some compassion? It's obvious what's going on. Yes she should have notified wardrobe but they could also have taken everyone's measurements again and not just assumed they were all the same size they were a few months ago. The fat shaming makes Courtney reconsider what she eats just in case she gains weight too. No more fat shaming people! My heart went out to Shannon even if she's unlikable at the moment. I wasn't surprised when she finally revealed the truth. I figured it was something like that. The clues were all there. Quentin, Brendan or Kinzy could have called Rafe to say they were worried about Shannon or to ask him to ask her to behave better. He's her manager and her husband so where is he anyway? He should be there to help.
Harrison is still kind and friendly. He's not a good sport about the holiday outfits they have to wear though. He was a little sour puss about it. Skylar and Courtney don't have much chance to catch up this time. He's recovered from the trauma of finding a dead body and back to his usual cheerful self. Quentin is mostly a no-show leaving things to Brendan and Kinzie to run. Brendan is so nice. He's too nice to be a director. He just doesn't know how to be tough.
Kinzy is young and inexperienced. She's an eager beaver who is anxious to do a good job. She's pretty much doing the directing job while Brendan is too kind and soft-hearted to get things moving along quickly. Kinzy's tone is a little too harsh though and she doesn't ooze empathy or compassion. She's also locked in a battle of wills with a lawyer named Leon who insists she return to Montana to settle her grandfather's estate. Kinzy wants nothing to do with her grandfather or his estate. She exchanges some harsh words with Leon and takes her anger out on everyone else. Even when Courtney tries to make allowances for Kinzy's grief, Kinzy denies she's grieving. So why is she acting like such a *itch then? Did Courtney and Shannon make the wrong decision about bringing her on board as director of their new show? Even so, she didn't deserve to be murdered. That was truly awful.
The contestants are a mixed bag as usual. They clearly didn't read their contracts because some of them are NOT nice. Marley, an aging hippie, refuses to wear Shannon's apron or do any sort of product placement. He's not a good candy maker but is quick to point fingers and call out favoritism when someone else is better than him. Courtney catches Marley sneaking around in places contestants are forbidden from entering. Did he kill Kenzie? He certainly had a motive. I do not like this guy at all. He's rude, nasty and argumentative. The very opposite of peace. Tim is also a rude jerk. He insists baking with booze is his trademark yet the judges never like anything he makes and they ask him to make something WITHOUT it and he refuses. He's also quick to point fingers and call out what he sees as favoritism just because he's a sore loser. Both men should have been sent packing right away. Maya is the most lovely of them all. She's an amazing candy maker and baker. Brystol is young and the least experienced. She gets a bit flustered in the kitchen when asked to make things she isn't familiar with. I think she has a bright future ahead of her though. She seems talented.
Leon is a shady lawyer who keeps badgering Kenzie. She's the exectutor of her grandfather's will and his estate can't be settled without her. He wants it done NOW not ASAP. Leon is also spotted with Marley. What are they up to? Did they conspire to kill Kinzie? Those are the only two suspects!
Other characters include Victoria, Brendan's mother, a high powered, ruthless businesswoman. She steps in to take over from Kinzie and Courtney really admires the way the older woman is able to make it in a man's world and how Victoria sticks up for other women. Girl power! I don't see it that way. I see Victoria as an overbearing, nasty mother who needs to be bossing everyone around, especially her own son. She's a toxic mother! Poor Brendan! It's amazing he's so nice.
Eric, Courtney's producer, is along for the ride to help her with career decisions and filming her own show. He's also very much in love with Courtney and very sweet. I don't know what he sees in her. He asks her over and over not to investigate and she ignores him. What kind of partner is that? He would be better off with Pamela. She's nice, tough, smart and doesn't investigate things that have nothing to do with her. She's smart enough to do her job and only her job. I feel bad for her that Eric can't reciprocate her feelings. Sheriff Perry is a decent guy. He must be so stressed with Courtney trying to do his job and tell him how to do his job! He manages to find information she doesn't have and she does uncover some possible clues ... or red herrings.
This story failed to deliver some holiday cheer to my world. I do not recommend this series.
This series is just not for me. I figured out right away who the murderer was and why. I also figured out two possibilities for what was going on with Shannon and Courtney never figured out either. I'm not into mysteries where the heroine can't figure it out until she's very nearly killed. Courtney's father is a doctor yet she can't figure out what's wrong with Shannon? My father is also a doctor. I'm a woman, I have friends, family members... at the very least Victoria should have known. Both mysteries were sooo obvious! I kept waiting for Shannon to confide in Courtney. It took way too long. Not even the baking saved this book for me. The Christmas past, present and future challenges were a little weird and sound difficult.
Courtney is TSTL! She really is. She is sooo stubborn and sooo stupid. She insists Sheriff Perry WANTS her to investigate in spite of his repeated warnings not to. Eric asks her to keep out of it. She thinks she's clever because she solved two previous murders but she didn't really. She nearly lost her life because she stuck her nose where it didn't belong. Courtney can't seem to figure out what's wrong with her friend or find a time for a private chat. Apparently they only associate professionally and Courtney doesn't go knock on Shannon's hotel room door or call her to chat? She makes a lot of assumptions about what Shannon MIGHT be up to when it's none of her business. Courtney can't figure out her feelings for Eric and is hesitant to get involved in a romantic relationship-STILL. She does, at least, figure things out at the end. She's longing for her family and missing them especially at Christmas. The copyright date of the book is 2021 so I am sure the author wrote in her own feelings during the pandemic. We all missed our families and friends, especially on the holidays. Courtney's parents are in an undisclosed location working for Doctors Without Borders. She's an only child and misses their annual traditions.
Shannon is moody, irritable, has gained weight and gets upset whenever anyone suggests she's causing problems. Can't people understand and have some compassion? It's obvious what's going on. Yes she should have notified wardrobe but they could also have taken everyone's measurements again and not just assumed they were all the same size they were a few months ago. The fat shaming makes Courtney reconsider what she eats just in case she gains weight too. No more fat shaming people! My heart went out to Shannon even if she's unlikable at the moment. I wasn't surprised when she finally revealed the truth. I figured it was something like that. The clues were all there. Quentin, Brendan or Kinzy could have called Rafe to say they were worried about Shannon or to ask him to ask her to behave better. He's her manager and her husband so where is he anyway? He should be there to help.
Harrison is still kind and friendly. He's not a good sport about the holiday outfits they have to wear though. He was a little sour puss about it. Skylar and Courtney don't have much chance to catch up this time. He's recovered from the trauma of finding a dead body and back to his usual cheerful self. Quentin is mostly a no-show leaving things to Brendan and Kinzie to run. Brendan is so nice. He's too nice to be a director. He just doesn't know how to be tough.
Kinzy is young and inexperienced. She's an eager beaver who is anxious to do a good job. She's pretty much doing the directing job while Brendan is too kind and soft-hearted to get things moving along quickly. Kinzy's tone is a little too harsh though and she doesn't ooze empathy or compassion. She's also locked in a battle of wills with a lawyer named Leon who insists she return to Montana to settle her grandfather's estate. Kinzy wants nothing to do with her grandfather or his estate. She exchanges some harsh words with Leon and takes her anger out on everyone else. Even when Courtney tries to make allowances for Kinzy's grief, Kinzy denies she's grieving. So why is she acting like such a *itch then? Did Courtney and Shannon make the wrong decision about bringing her on board as director of their new show? Even so, she didn't deserve to be murdered. That was truly awful.
The contestants are a mixed bag as usual. They clearly didn't read their contracts because some of them are NOT nice. Marley, an aging hippie, refuses to wear Shannon's apron or do any sort of product placement. He's not a good candy maker but is quick to point fingers and call out favoritism when someone else is better than him. Courtney catches Marley sneaking around in places contestants are forbidden from entering. Did he kill Kenzie? He certainly had a motive. I do not like this guy at all. He's rude, nasty and argumentative. The very opposite of peace. Tim is also a rude jerk. He insists baking with booze is his trademark yet the judges never like anything he makes and they ask him to make something WITHOUT it and he refuses. He's also quick to point fingers and call out what he sees as favoritism just because he's a sore loser. Both men should have been sent packing right away. Maya is the most lovely of them all. She's an amazing candy maker and baker. Brystol is young and the least experienced. She gets a bit flustered in the kitchen when asked to make things she isn't familiar with. I think she has a bright future ahead of her though. She seems talented.
Leon is a shady lawyer who keeps badgering Kenzie. She's the exectutor of her grandfather's will and his estate can't be settled without her. He wants it done NOW not ASAP. Leon is also spotted with Marley. What are they up to? Did they conspire to kill Kinzie? Those are the only two suspects!
Other characters include Victoria, Brendan's mother, a high powered, ruthless businesswoman. She steps in to take over from Kinzie and Courtney really admires the way the older woman is able to make it in a man's world and how Victoria sticks up for other women. Girl power! I don't see it that way. I see Victoria as an overbearing, nasty mother who needs to be bossing everyone around, especially her own son. She's a toxic mother! Poor Brendan! It's amazing he's so nice.
Eric, Courtney's producer, is along for the ride to help her with career decisions and filming her own show. He's also very much in love with Courtney and very sweet. I don't know what he sees in her. He asks her over and over not to investigate and she ignores him. What kind of partner is that? He would be better off with Pamela. She's nice, tough, smart and doesn't investigate things that have nothing to do with her. She's smart enough to do her job and only her job. I feel bad for her that Eric can't reciprocate her feelings. Sheriff Perry is a decent guy. He must be so stressed with Courtney trying to do his job and tell him how to do his job! He manages to find information she doesn't have and she does uncover some possible clues ... or red herrings.
This story failed to deliver some holiday cheer to my world. I do not recommend this series.
October 9, 2021
Christmas Candy Corpse is the third installment in the Courtney Archer series featuring chef Courtney Archer. The upcoming holidays have brought the cast and crew of American Baking Battle back to their home away from home in the Poconos for a Christmas themed challenge among six bakers, who will need to create candies, cookies and desserts.
Courtney is feeling guilty that she's not home helping her cousin organize the annual Hospital Toy Drive that her family has done for years. But, she's not the only one who isn't in the holiday spirit - contestants are on edge and Shannon Collins, the sweet tempered judge and Courtney's soon to be co-host on a new cooking show is acting very strange. Shannon is short tempered, gaining weight and sneaking off set at every chance she gets.
When Assistant Director Kinzey Hummel is found strangled by one of Shannon's aprons all fingers seem to point at Shannon but Courtney knows that her friend isn't a killer. Kinzey's grandfather just passed and she stands to inherit his estate so is the killer someone who wanted the family fortune to himself, or is it one of her co-workers who is trying to get ahead in show business?
A quick afternoon read with the return of series regulars, an interesting plot and premise, delicious recipes and just enough romance. It will be fun to see if Courtney is going to spend more time with her new series or keep going back to the American Baking Battle.
I received an advanced copy of Christmas Candy Corpse from NetGalley via Kensington. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
Courtney is feeling guilty that she's not home helping her cousin organize the annual Hospital Toy Drive that her family has done for years. But, she's not the only one who isn't in the holiday spirit - contestants are on edge and Shannon Collins, the sweet tempered judge and Courtney's soon to be co-host on a new cooking show is acting very strange. Shannon is short tempered, gaining weight and sneaking off set at every chance she gets.
When Assistant Director Kinzey Hummel is found strangled by one of Shannon's aprons all fingers seem to point at Shannon but Courtney knows that her friend isn't a killer. Kinzey's grandfather just passed and she stands to inherit his estate so is the killer someone who wanted the family fortune to himself, or is it one of her co-workers who is trying to get ahead in show business?
A quick afternoon read with the return of series regulars, an interesting plot and premise, delicious recipes and just enough romance. It will be fun to see if Courtney is going to spend more time with her new series or keep going back to the American Baking Battle.
I received an advanced copy of Christmas Candy Corpse from NetGalley via Kensington. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
December 9, 2021
This series is really getting better. I have to admit I wasn't sure about it at the beginning or if I even liked Courtney that much. But after three books of seeing how she interacts with her friends/coworkers, she's really grown on me, and she's grown as a character as well. I feel she's gained some maturity (finding dead bodies does that to ya, I guess), and I was happy to see her and Eric in a good place with their relationship.
I had a little sneaky feeling earlier about the killer in the book, and it ended up being the right whodunit and for the reason I thought as well. It was well-plotted and executed though. That was some exciting showdown too! Once again, Courtney's kitchen set had something handy! The ending was very sweet and Christmasy.
Shannon had her own side mystery going on and I thought I'd guessed what it was. It was interesting to see that play out into the happy ending everyone in the cast had. I can definitely say I'm looking forward to reading the next book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Publishing via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
I had a little sneaky feeling earlier about the killer in the book, and it ended up being the right whodunit and for the reason I thought as well. It was well-plotted and executed though. That was some exciting showdown too! Once again, Courtney's kitchen set had something handy! The ending was very sweet and Christmasy.
Shannon had her own side mystery going on and I thought I'd guessed what it was. It was interesting to see that play out into the happy ending everyone in the cast had. I can definitely say I'm looking forward to reading the next book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Publishing via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
January 10, 2022
I really enjoy this series and loved this book. I like Courtney as a main character. She's very relatable and very likeable. This was a fast paced mystery and a really fun read that kept me guessing till the end. Looking forward to this series continuing!
November 2, 2021
This is the third book in the series and I haven't read the first two. While the mystery is a standalone, I did feel lost in regards to the returning characters and the relationships they had with each other.
I never really connected with this book and didn't enjoy the repeated comments re one character's weight gain.
I'm definitely in the minority though as many people seem to really enjoy this book. So if you like Christmas baking specials and murder then give this book a try.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you, Kensington Books.
I never really connected with this book and didn't enjoy the repeated comments re one character's weight gain.
I'm definitely in the minority though as many people seem to really enjoy this book. So if you like Christmas baking specials and murder then give this book a try.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you, Kensington Books.
December 19, 2021
A very good read.
December 5, 2023
This will be brief. While the overall mystery was pretty good, except for some loose ends, my 1 star is because of the fat shamming in the book.
1. The main character Courtney thinks “their comments were of concern towards Shannon so it wasn’t fat shamming”
2. Courtney even thinks while having lunch with Shannon “why she would order a whole appetizer platter before her meal.”
People gain weight. People can eat whatever they want fuck they want. People can choose to gain weight or lose weight. And all of this is none of our business nor is it grounds for fat shamming. The “concerns” were mentioning a woman who has gained weight. While they may have been concerned for her health, it is still far shamming. Thinking and commenting on someone’s choice in meal, while knowing they have gained weight is far shaming. Stop it. You can fluff it up to concerns and tie it in a pretty bow, but it’s still far shaming at the end of the day. Criticizing one’s weight in their presence, commenting on yours in front of them, and criticizing their meals, clothes, health, etc. is rude, and insensitive. It only serves yourself.
1. The main character Courtney thinks “their comments were of concern towards Shannon so it wasn’t fat shamming”
2. Courtney even thinks while having lunch with Shannon “why she would order a whole appetizer platter before her meal.”
People gain weight. People can eat whatever they want fuck they want. People can choose to gain weight or lose weight. And all of this is none of our business nor is it grounds for fat shamming. The “concerns” were mentioning a woman who has gained weight. While they may have been concerned for her health, it is still far shamming. Thinking and commenting on someone’s choice in meal, while knowing they have gained weight is far shaming. Stop it. You can fluff it up to concerns and tie it in a pretty bow, but it’s still far shaming at the end of the day. Criticizing one’s weight in their presence, commenting on yours in front of them, and criticizing their meals, clothes, health, etc. is rude, and insensitive. It only serves yourself.
November 13, 2021
I’m not sure that I have ever favored Christmas cozy mysteries over other times of year prior to this book. Christmas Candy Corpse is the third Courtney Archer Mystery and it has everything you need for a holly jolly Christmas and it comes with a side of murder.
I enjoy watching the Great British Baking Show so I suppose it would be natural for me to love a cozy mystery series based on an imaginary American Baking Battle show. In Candy Christmas Corpse, the show is doing a Christmas special battle. The theme is a bit directed toward a Christmas Carol with past, present and future baking challenges featuring candy, cookies and cakes.
There is plenty of emotional drama as well with Shannon acting completely out of character, Courtney trying to figure out her relationship with Eric and Brendan’s mother Victoria visiting the set.
Kinzy was a good choice for murder victim because she was likable in the first two books but was acting a bit high and mighty as this book opened. Courtney had already come to care for Kinzy so she was inclined to get involved in figuring out who the murderer was.
There were some good suspects and only in the back of my mind did I consider the way things turned out in the end. Courtney tried so hard to play it safe but she has her life threatened once again.
The ending has lovely feelings surfacing once again making this one of the best Christmas cozies I have read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book.
I enjoy watching the Great British Baking Show so I suppose it would be natural for me to love a cozy mystery series based on an imaginary American Baking Battle show. In Candy Christmas Corpse, the show is doing a Christmas special battle. The theme is a bit directed toward a Christmas Carol with past, present and future baking challenges featuring candy, cookies and cakes.
There is plenty of emotional drama as well with Shannon acting completely out of character, Courtney trying to figure out her relationship with Eric and Brendan’s mother Victoria visiting the set.
Kinzy was a good choice for murder victim because she was likable in the first two books but was acting a bit high and mighty as this book opened. Courtney had already come to care for Kinzy so she was inclined to get involved in figuring out who the murderer was.
There were some good suspects and only in the back of my mind did I consider the way things turned out in the end. Courtney tried so hard to play it safe but she has her life threatened once again.
The ending has lovely feelings surfacing once again making this one of the best Christmas cozies I have read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book.
did-not-finish
December 28, 2021A cozy murder mystery set at a holiday themed baking competition show? This book seemed tailor-made for me, and I eagerly requested it on Netgalley. Unfortunately, it didn't quite grab me as I thought it would, and in the spirit of not forcing myself to finish books I don't enjoy, I'm DNF-ing at 48%.
The mystery itself seems intriguing enough -- the show's assistant director was killed by an apron created by the main character Courtney's best friend, and Shannon is the prime suspect. Motives abound -- before the death, the AD's wealthy grandfather died, and there's the possibility she was heir to a tremendous fortune. Also before the death, she said some mean and unprofessional things about Shannon's weight, which seems to set up the prime suspect angle.
The problem is that, as in any cozy mystery series, the series lead forms the backbone of the stories, and I found myself cheering more for the Sheriff than for Courtney. This is the third mystery in the series, and the story is written seemingly with the assumption that all the readers are familiar with the first two novels, and the complicated backstories and webs of relationships amongst the characters.
Longtime readers may therefore enjoy it more, but as a newcomer, it was tough for me to get into the whole drama between Courtney and Shannon when I never even got a sense of how strong their friendship was in the first place. I took as fact what Courtney said about Shannon acting unlike herself, yet I saw nothing that convinced me to believe that Shannon was innocent. Nor, to be fair, was there much evidence that she was guilty, but mostly, she just seemed an unpleasant person to be around, and I didn't really care one way or the other if she turned out to be the murderer.
Worse, for someone who claims to have a super strong history of friendship with Shannon, such that they were going to do a show together, Courtney seems utterly inept at getting her friend to talk to her. And I understand that's part of the suspense the author is building (dramatic tone: WHAT is Shannon's Secret?), but there's literally nothing in Shannon's responses that shows she even considers Courtney a friend at all. The impression I got was less of a troubled friend trying to hide something from a loved one, and more of a near-complete stranger being bugged by a nosy busybody. This is perhaps where having read the first two novels would have helped, but I still think there was a way to convey that previous closeness through dialogue rather than having Courtney's narration do all the work. Because having the series lead come off so strong towards someone who doesn't at all seem interested in bonding just turns me off.
The other part is the whole mystery behind Shannon's attitude and weight gain, and Courtney's attitude towards it. Let's see: Shannon is troubled about something, possibly to do with her marriage. She's been having mood swings and behaving erratically. She's gained a lot of weight in a short time, seems to have a marked increase in appetite, and seems to have lost interest in alcoholic drinks. And she's hot all the time, even when the studio is super chilly. Could it be ?!
It seems the obvious conclusion, and having the mystery drag on for at least till the halfway mark where I stopped reading, just gets old, particularly since the possibility doesn't even cross her supposed BFF's mind. Either way, Shannon then gets fat-shamed by several people on the TV crew. Some of it is semi-legit concern: the outfits in her wardrobe are now a size or two too tight, and it's too late to order in new clothes for the shoot. Others is unprofessional, yet sadly believable in TV-land: people make snarky comments about how Shannon took an extra piece of fudge during a judging round. Mean, but okay, I can roll with it because I can imagine it's really what would happen if an on-air talent suddenly gains weight before a shoot.
Where I draw the line is Courtney, her supposed best friend, also getting in on the judgementalism. Sure, Courtney disguises it as concern -- poor Shannon must be super stressed about something to be eating so much -- but a lot of Courtney's thoughts are just unkind. For example, when she and Shannon go out for dinner with Courtney's boyfriend, Courtney notices how Shannon arranges her plates in a sort of barricade, and thinks in shock that her friend actually means to finish all the food she'd ordered. Courtney then wonders if Shannon really needed fried cheese and vegetables with her steak dinner. Now, that's just catty, and a far cry from concern about whatever Shannon's going through. Again, perhaps if I read the first two books and saw that Shannon usually barely eats anything, or usually eats all heart-healthy, non-deep-fried food, then maybe Courtney's thoughts would make more sense as a form of concern, but still. I should hope that even if my eating behaviours changed, my friends would be much more concerned about the overall behavioural change than about my decision to eat a cheesy side dish with my steak.
I AM curious about who the murderer is, and why they did it, so I may skip to the end to find out. But I'm not getting into the story overall, so I'm otherwise DNF-ing at 48%.
+
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
The mystery itself seems intriguing enough -- the show's assistant director was killed by an apron created by the main character Courtney's best friend, and Shannon is the prime suspect. Motives abound -- before the death, the AD's wealthy grandfather died, and there's the possibility she was heir to a tremendous fortune. Also before the death, she said some mean and unprofessional things about Shannon's weight, which seems to set up the prime suspect angle.
The problem is that, as in any cozy mystery series, the series lead forms the backbone of the stories, and I found myself cheering more for the Sheriff than for Courtney. This is the third mystery in the series, and the story is written seemingly with the assumption that all the readers are familiar with the first two novels, and the complicated backstories and webs of relationships amongst the characters.
Longtime readers may therefore enjoy it more, but as a newcomer, it was tough for me to get into the whole drama between Courtney and Shannon when I never even got a sense of how strong their friendship was in the first place. I took as fact what Courtney said about Shannon acting unlike herself, yet I saw nothing that convinced me to believe that Shannon was innocent. Nor, to be fair, was there much evidence that she was guilty, but mostly, she just seemed an unpleasant person to be around, and I didn't really care one way or the other if she turned out to be the murderer.
Worse, for someone who claims to have a super strong history of friendship with Shannon, such that they were going to do a show together, Courtney seems utterly inept at getting her friend to talk to her. And I understand that's part of the suspense the author is building (dramatic tone: WHAT is Shannon's Secret?), but there's literally nothing in Shannon's responses that shows she even considers Courtney a friend at all. The impression I got was less of a troubled friend trying to hide something from a loved one, and more of a near-complete stranger being bugged by a nosy busybody. This is perhaps where having read the first two novels would have helped, but I still think there was a way to convey that previous closeness through dialogue rather than having Courtney's narration do all the work. Because having the series lead come off so strong towards someone who doesn't at all seem interested in bonding just turns me off.
The other part is the whole mystery behind Shannon's attitude and weight gain, and Courtney's attitude towards it. Let's see: Shannon is troubled about something, possibly to do with her marriage. She's been having mood swings and behaving erratically. She's gained a lot of weight in a short time, seems to have a marked increase in appetite, and seems to have lost interest in alcoholic drinks. And she's hot all the time, even when the studio is super chilly. Could it be ?!
It seems the obvious conclusion, and having the mystery drag on for at least till the halfway mark where I stopped reading, just gets old, particularly since the possibility doesn't even cross her supposed BFF's mind. Either way, Shannon then gets fat-shamed by several people on the TV crew. Some of it is semi-legit concern: the outfits in her wardrobe are now a size or two too tight, and it's too late to order in new clothes for the shoot. Others is unprofessional, yet sadly believable in TV-land: people make snarky comments about how Shannon took an extra piece of fudge during a judging round. Mean, but okay, I can roll with it because I can imagine it's really what would happen if an on-air talent suddenly gains weight before a shoot.
Where I draw the line is Courtney, her supposed best friend, also getting in on the judgementalism. Sure, Courtney disguises it as concern -- poor Shannon must be super stressed about something to be eating so much -- but a lot of Courtney's thoughts are just unkind. For example, when she and Shannon go out for dinner with Courtney's boyfriend, Courtney notices how Shannon arranges her plates in a sort of barricade, and thinks in shock that her friend actually means to finish all the food she'd ordered. Courtney then wonders if Shannon really needed fried cheese and vegetables with her steak dinner. Now, that's just catty, and a far cry from concern about whatever Shannon's going through. Again, perhaps if I read the first two books and saw that Shannon usually barely eats anything, or usually eats all heart-healthy, non-deep-fried food, then maybe Courtney's thoughts would make more sense as a form of concern, but still. I should hope that even if my eating behaviours changed, my friends would be much more concerned about the overall behavioural change than about my decision to eat a cheesy side dish with my steak.
I AM curious about who the murderer is, and why they did it, so I may skip to the end to find out. But I'm not getting into the story overall, so I'm otherwise DNF-ing at 48%.
+
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
December 12, 2021
Another enjoyable Christmas cozy mysteries - Fast read with interesting characters and plenty of twist & turns - murder - friendship- little romance- Read as a "stand alone" and was able to follow the characters with no problem...
April 12, 2022
Definitely my favorite of the series so far. I really liked this one, with Shannon acting strangely that brought a new dynamic to the story and felt helped push the mystery and plot along. This was a fun read!
April 8, 2022
I love a good cozy mystery!
November 7, 2021
Christmas Candy Corpse
by Rosemarie Ross
Pub Date 30 Nov 2021 | Archive Date 03 Dec 2021
Kensington Books, Kensington
Mystery & Thrillers
I am reviewing a copy of Christmas Candy Corpse through Kensington Books and Netgalley:
In Christmas Candy Corpse Six ambitious bakers are competing for glory and a grand prize, showcasing their most delicious candies, cookies, and desserts. But Courtney detects some grinchiness actions from her coworkers, especially from judge Shannon Collins, but she’s hoping the sweet treats will restore everyone’s festive spirits. That Christmas wish swiftly fizzles when assistant director Kinzy Hummel is found strangled—with an apron from Shannon’s new product line.
Shannon insists that she’s innocent. In the meantime Kinzy had been under pressure from a disgruntled attorney to settle her late grandfather’s estate. But could that be a motive for murder? Even as Courtney sifts through competitors and crew for likely suspects, the show must go on. Unless she can get to the truth quickly there’ll be another helping of homicide amid the pinwheel cookies and fruitcakes..
I give Christmas Candy Corpse five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
by Rosemarie Ross
Pub Date 30 Nov 2021 | Archive Date 03 Dec 2021
Kensington Books, Kensington
Mystery & Thrillers
I am reviewing a copy of Christmas Candy Corpse through Kensington Books and Netgalley:
In Christmas Candy Corpse Six ambitious bakers are competing for glory and a grand prize, showcasing their most delicious candies, cookies, and desserts. But Courtney detects some grinchiness actions from her coworkers, especially from judge Shannon Collins, but she’s hoping the sweet treats will restore everyone’s festive spirits. That Christmas wish swiftly fizzles when assistant director Kinzy Hummel is found strangled—with an apron from Shannon’s new product line.
Shannon insists that she’s innocent. In the meantime Kinzy had been under pressure from a disgruntled attorney to settle her late grandfather’s estate. But could that be a motive for murder? Even as Courtney sifts through competitors and crew for likely suspects, the show must go on. Unless she can get to the truth quickly there’ll be another helping of homicide amid the pinwheel cookies and fruitcakes..
I give Christmas Candy Corpse five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
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