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Cranberry Cove #6
Berried Motives
An ambitious TV personality takes a star turn in murder in the new Cranberry Cove Mystery from USA Today bestselling author Peg Cochran! With the cranberry farm in full harvest mode, Monica is thrilled to learn that they'll be the featured guests on a local TV news show. Certain the exposure will give her bakery products and the farm's store a welcome boost, she's also nervous about how she'll come across on-screen. But her real worries begin when the show's ruthless star is found bludgeoned to death on a side road of the farm--and Monica's own brother heads up the list of suspects. Launching an investigation to find the real killer and clear her brother, Monica discovers there was no love lost between the victim and those closest to her. From the dead woman's husband, a calculating politician with his sights set on more lucrative pastures, to the timid cameraperson she repeatedly bullied, there's no shortage of suspects or motives. And when Monica unearths a compromising secret that turns the spotlight on one of them, she suddenly realizes the solution has been staring her in the face. As she closes in on the killer, she'll need sharp wits and steely nerves to avoid taking her final bow . . .
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Published January 25, 2022
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About the author
Peg Cochran
31 books394 followersMystery writing lets Peg indulge her curiosity under the guise of “work” (aka research). She put pen to paper at age seven when she wrote plays and forced her cousins to perform them at Christmas dinner. She switched to mysteries when she discovered the perfect hiding place for a body down the street from her house.
When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading, cooking, spoiling her granddaughter and checking her books' stats on Amazon.
A former Jersey girl, Peg now resides in Michigan. She is the author of the Open Book Series (written as Margaret Loudon), the Murder, She Reported series, the Cranberry Cove Series, the Farmer’s Daughter series, the Gourmet De-Lite series, the Lucille series, and the Sweet Nothings Lingerie series (written as Meg London.)
When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading, cooking, spoiling her granddaughter and checking her books' stats on Amazon.
A former Jersey girl, Peg now resides in Michigan. She is the author of the Open Book Series (written as Margaret Loudon), the Murder, She Reported series, the Cranberry Cove Series, the Farmer’s Daughter series, the Gourmet De-Lite series, the Lucille series, and the Sweet Nothings Lingerie series (written as Meg London.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
November 19, 2020
Berried Motives is the sixth book in the Cranberry Cove series and the first I've read . It can be read as a stand alone though.
I must say I've never read a book about cranberry harvesting before but I am glad that I have.
Berried Motives takes place in Michigan where the weather is perfect for growing cranberries and the cranberry farm is in full harvest mode right now.
Monica bakes a variety of baked goods with these cranberries for the local businesses to sell and it keeps her happy and very busy.
To pump up business they have the local news crew come out and do a piece on the cranberry bog.
Lo and behold when the show’s ruthless star is found dead on their farm this is not the type of exposure the farm is looking for.
Cozy fans and foodies alike will love this mystery in Cranberry Cove.
Berried Motives also has tasty recipes included.
Pub Date 17 Nov 2020
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I must say I've never read a book about cranberry harvesting before but I am glad that I have.
Berried Motives takes place in Michigan where the weather is perfect for growing cranberries and the cranberry farm is in full harvest mode right now.
Monica bakes a variety of baked goods with these cranberries for the local businesses to sell and it keeps her happy and very busy.
To pump up business they have the local news crew come out and do a piece on the cranberry bog.
Lo and behold when the show’s ruthless star is found dead on their farm this is not the type of exposure the farm is looking for.
Cozy fans and foodies alike will love this mystery in Cranberry Cove.
Berried Motives also has tasty recipes included.
Pub Date 17 Nov 2020
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
November 6, 2020
A TV spot filmed in an effort to boost business at the Sassamanash Farm ends in murder and Monica Albertson finds herself nosing around trying to get answers but instead coming up with more questions.
I liked the fact that some clues were given by the author so I could figure things out along the way but there was also enough unknown to keep me reading to the end. The interesting secondary characters were a bonus.
Thanks to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
I liked the fact that some clues were given by the author so I could figure things out along the way but there was also enough unknown to keep me reading to the end. The interesting secondary characters were a bonus.
Thanks to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
October 29, 2020
I was so excited to see an advanced reader copy for this book available on Netgalley that I immediately snapped it up to read. I love this series. It is set on the west side of my home state and any time I pick up one of the books in the series I feel like I've taken a three-hour drive across the state to visit with old friends. It was actually by reading this series that I learned we have cranberry bogs in my home state. Monica is back and once again she is a trouble magnet. A local news anchor and weekend magazine host is killed near the farm after recording a segment about Sassenach Farms. The whole thing doesn't sit right with Monica, and as fans of this series know that means she is going to ask questions and try to solve the case. What I like about Monica is that she is not reckless or overly nosy. Sometimes, it seems like things just fall into her lap, leading to more questions, which lead her to trouble. The characters are well developed and have a nice history while still moving forward with new life events.
The mystery kept me guessing. There is a lot going on in this book, with many different threads that the reader has to try and weave together. In the end, Ms. Cochran wraps it up nicely, with a very satisfying ending. There are some delicious sounding recipes at the end of this book (as there are with the other books in the series) and one day I may get up enough nerve to try some of them.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy, provided to me by the publisher, Beyond the Page, through Netgalley. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
The mystery kept me guessing. There is a lot going on in this book, with many different threads that the reader has to try and weave together. In the end, Ms. Cochran wraps it up nicely, with a very satisfying ending. There are some delicious sounding recipes at the end of this book (as there are with the other books in the series) and one day I may get up enough nerve to try some of them.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy, provided to me by the publisher, Beyond the Page, through Netgalley. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
November 4, 2020
I was so excited by the previous book - the writing had really picked up and the story was just so good, that when I saw this new one, I was quick to snatch it up. Unfortunately, it was quite a bit of a disappointment to me. While the story/mystery was actually really good [It was a bit of a surprise actually as the red herring was very, very, good ], Monica herself is the problem. She is doing two of the things that I despise in ANY book, but especially in cozies [and this two tropes keep popping up in newer books and it is something that needs to stop. People do not act like this in real life and to justify it or to normalize it is very detrimental in my opinion in an already entitled era] - she is shirking her job duties and passing it all off on others, and she is doing despicable snooping. There is snooping and then there is opening someone's backpack and reading their private papers. Monica is doing the later. And it is disturbing on many levels. She does this several times in the book and it just increased my level of unease. Then add in that she is too busy to do her job and passes the buck off to both Nora and Kit over and over, is just plain infuriating. She treats them both poorly [while claiming them as friends and to care about them - not okay in my book]. Even when she "gives Kit the day off" to pay him back from deserting him, the moment he is back, she back to her own shenanigans. And it is very off-putting.
Add in the whole "I don't know what Instagram is" [PUH-leese. Even my 73 year old non-social media mother knows what IG is. My CAT knows what IG is. That someone doesn't know what it is in a current book is an insult to the readers. If she knew what it was and didn't use it is one thing {as many people don't use social media and that is totally okay}, but to say she didn't know what it was and how it could benefit the farm and business is just ludicrous] and the mix up of names [Poor Melinda becomes Melanie and then Melinda and then Melanie etc], AND the issue with the car [I cannot even go into that, because it takes up WAY to much space], and the END [because you'd have to be blind and dumb to not have seen that coming from the beginning of the book], you have a fairly frustrating read. The ONLY thing that kept me going was the mystery [I had to see if I was right. I was not. Which was excellent] and often, that seemed like not enough to keep me going. I felt bad for my bestie during this time as I kvetched a lot over this one. I can only hope that the next one [because I like this series so much I am willing to give it one more go; I sure hope that it will be better than this one was for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Add in the whole "I don't know what Instagram is" [PUH-leese. Even my 73 year old non-social media mother knows what IG is. My CAT knows what IG is. That someone doesn't know what it is in a current book is an insult to the readers. If she knew what it was and didn't use it is one thing {as many people don't use social media and that is totally okay}, but to say she didn't know what it was and how it could benefit the farm and business is just ludicrous] and the mix up of names [Poor Melinda becomes Melanie and then Melinda and then Melanie etc], AND the issue with the car [I cannot even go into that, because it takes up WAY to much space], and the END [because you'd have to be blind and dumb to not have seen that coming from the beginning of the book], you have a fairly frustrating read. The ONLY thing that kept me going was the mystery [I had to see if I was right. I was not. Which was excellent] and often, that seemed like not enough to keep me going. I felt bad for my bestie during this time as I kvetched a lot over this one. I can only hope that the next one [because I like this series so much I am willing to give it one more go; I sure hope that it will be better than this one was for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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February 4, 2022While I enjoy the visits to Cranberry Cove and getting to spend time with Monica and her friends, this one was a little troubling. I’m all for Monica investigating; she’s good at it. But I draw the line at the questionable actions and the liberties she took. I also can’t understand how someone so intuitive can’t figure out she’s pregnant? I’ll read the next one because I’m invested in the town and the characters but I hope she’ll behave more scrupulously.
December 2, 2020
It's great to be back in Cranberry Cove and a return to Monica's brothers cranberry farm. The local television station decides to travel to the farm to show the viewers the farm itself and different parts of the harvest. The anchor is bossy and rude towards her co-workers, but she is attractive and engaged to a US Senate candidate. But her hopes of hosting DC parties end when she is found dead on the grounds of the farm. Monica wonders if there is a random killer or if only she were targeted. She is determined to find the answers.
I've read most of the prior books in the series and this can easily be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed the author's synopsis of the series during the first chapter. It's much easier for me to concentrate as opposed to looking back and forth for snippets of prior events. The town is so quaint, just as I imagine it to be with all of its small shops and of course, Monica's husbands bookstore. The characters dialogue flows easily and the mystery plot provides good red herrings.
Thanks to NetGalley and Beyond the Page for a copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
I've read most of the prior books in the series and this can easily be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed the author's synopsis of the series during the first chapter. It's much easier for me to concentrate as opposed to looking back and forth for snippets of prior events. The town is so quaint, just as I imagine it to be with all of its small shops and of course, Monica's husbands bookstore. The characters dialogue flows easily and the mystery plot provides good red herrings.
Thanks to NetGalley and Beyond the Page for a copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
November 11, 2020
4.5 stars
This is the sixth book in the Cranberry Cove series by Peg Cochran.
Wow. This was a real page turner! I loved the whole experience of this. The TV personality who ends up dead and then the search to find out who did her in was quite fascinating. Loved the mystery part and the characterization was spot on! Even the secondary characters seemed to shine.
This series has really grabbed my attention in the past so I was happy to see a new mystery ready to dig into. Such a fun read and it shows how a cozy mystery should be dealt with. The red herrings were all placed well and the killer was hard to figure out which is what made it super fun!
Definitely a series I will continue with!
If you want to read a good cozy mystery, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the sixth book in the Cranberry Cove series by Peg Cochran.
Wow. This was a real page turner! I loved the whole experience of this. The TV personality who ends up dead and then the search to find out who did her in was quite fascinating. Loved the mystery part and the characterization was spot on! Even the secondary characters seemed to shine.
This series has really grabbed my attention in the past so I was happy to see a new mystery ready to dig into. Such a fun read and it shows how a cozy mystery should be dealt with. The red herrings were all placed well and the killer was hard to figure out which is what made it super fun!
Definitely a series I will continue with!
If you want to read a good cozy mystery, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
November 9, 2022
The writing is still solid, and the setting is still lovely. I’m not sure what happened to the moral compass of the main character, but for a cozy mystery, the way she goes about getting her information in this one is troubling at best. It’s hard to be sympathetic and engaged with her story. Let’s have more about the lovely town and definitely more about the dog!
August 6, 2022
A cute, cozy visit with "old friends"! The mystery itself wasn't anything innovative, but I loved the progress some recurring characters made, especially at the very end - I knew it!!!
November 15, 2020
This is Cranberry Cover Mystery release #6. I have enjoyed the entire series and was thrilled to receive this for review. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity. My review opinions are my own, The author has created a charming series about life on a cranberry farm that is fun and interesting to read. I love finding out more about farming with cranberries and how Monica and her Brother manage the family farm.
Monica has increased sales at their farm store with her popular berry products and received exposure for a TV show to come and film. The star of the show a popular host, is found murdered by the farm. Monica must step up as sleuth to save the farm's reputation and solve this complicated sleuth . She soon finds out the victim was a ruthless sort who had many enemies. As local secrets are reveled. during her investigation she finds clues that may affect the entire town.
I loved this next in series. The sleuth is very well crafted and kept me guessing to conclusion. I highly recommend this next release in this popular series.
Monica has increased sales at their farm store with her popular berry products and received exposure for a TV show to come and film. The star of the show a popular host, is found murdered by the farm. Monica must step up as sleuth to save the farm's reputation and solve this complicated sleuth . She soon finds out the victim was a ruthless sort who had many enemies. As local secrets are reveled. during her investigation she finds clues that may affect the entire town.
I loved this next in series. The sleuth is very well crafted and kept me guessing to conclusion. I highly recommend this next release in this popular series.
November 19, 2020
"Berried Motives" is the 6th installment in the Cranberry Cove cozy mystery series. Newlywed Monica Albertson runs the bakery on her brother's cranberry farm on the shores of Lake Michigan. The local news is doing a story on the farm and the bakery, so Monica is taking part in the filming. The local news host doing the story is murdered just outside the farm, and it turns out the star had quite a few enemies - from her coworkers to her exes to her own sister.
When one of her brother's crew members is arrested for the murder, Monica decides to find the real killer because she knows the police got the wrong person.
This book has the characters I've grown to enjoy, but I do wish more of it took place in the downtown shopping area. I love the scenes in the bookstore and the candy shop's eccentric owners. However, there is a huge development in Monica's personal life, and there's a new pet dog that I already love.
3.5 stars
FTC disclosure: I received an eARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
When one of her brother's crew members is arrested for the murder, Monica decides to find the real killer because she knows the police got the wrong person.
This book has the characters I've grown to enjoy, but I do wish more of it took place in the downtown shopping area. I love the scenes in the bookstore and the candy shop's eccentric owners. However, there is a huge development in Monica's personal life, and there's a new pet dog that I already love.
3.5 stars
FTC disclosure: I received an eARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
December 14, 2020
This was another great book in the series that I couldn't put down! I love to see the relationships as they develop, not just with Monica and Greg, but with Jefff and Lauren and Detective Stevens. In this installment, the farm is doing so good that a news crew is coming by to do a story. The anchor, who is rude and nasty to everyone ends up murdered on the farm. One of Jeff's crew members is suspected of the murder due to his long past history with the victim. The story has a lot of twists and turns that I really did not expect. The anchor was engaged to a local business owner who was running for senate, and due to her negative and nasty attitude, there are plenty of suspects!
I really do enjoy the setting of Cranberry Cove and can imagine walking down the street between Greg's shop, the butcher shop and the sister's candy store. I really enjoyed the addition of the family pup in this one. The writing style is great and the story flows nicely. One thing I wasn't huge on was Monica running off to investigate and leaving Kit alone in the store. I felt bad for him and angry on his behalf. I do like him being a bigger part of the story though.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
I really do enjoy the setting of Cranberry Cove and can imagine walking down the street between Greg's shop, the butcher shop and the sister's candy store. I really enjoyed the addition of the family pup in this one. The writing style is great and the story flows nicely. One thing I wasn't huge on was Monica running off to investigate and leaving Kit alone in the store. I felt bad for him and angry on his behalf. I do like him being a bigger part of the story though.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
November 7, 2020
Monica Albertson has her hands full with baking delicious cranberry treats her farm store, helping her brother Jeff run the cranberry farm and sleuthing. When a hotshot news anchor shows up to do a story on the farm, lives will change and some will end.
I enjoyed this book, so much that I read it in one sitting. Monica is a likable and relatable character and the setting in a cranberry farm is interesting. The book was fast-paced and kept the reader guessing. A great feature that made the book even more fun - Monica has an opportunity to solve two mysteries - one from years ago and one in present day. The supporting characters enhanced the book and I loved Kit Tanner, Monica's baking assistant who is funny, charming and a supportive friend.
I'm ready for another visit to the farm!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I enjoyed this book, so much that I read it in one sitting. Monica is a likable and relatable character and the setting in a cranberry farm is interesting. The book was fast-paced and kept the reader guessing. A great feature that made the book even more fun - Monica has an opportunity to solve two mysteries - one from years ago and one in present day. The supporting characters enhanced the book and I loved Kit Tanner, Monica's baking assistant who is funny, charming and a supportive friend.
I'm ready for another visit to the farm!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 8, 2020
As a Wisconsinite used to cranberry bogs I was surprised to learn that western Michigan had them, too. This book gives an easy tutorial on cranberry growing and harvesting along with a good murder mystery. The local TV news diva comes out to the farm for a highlight but leaves in a body bag instead of a news truck. Monica can't help but sleuth while cooking up cranberry deserts. Loved it! And the recipes, too!
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Beyond the Page Publishing via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Beyond the Page Publishing via NetGalley. Thank you!
December 21, 2020
Berried Motives by Peg Cochran is the 5th book in a Cranberry Cove series, and another fun addition. I really enjoy this series. Monica and Greg are married, and looking forward to their future. When a local television news stations did a segment on the Cranberry farm and shop, and later the newscaster was found dead on the farm, the sleuthing begins. I found this book interesting, and I couldn't stop reading. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I highly recommended this book and series for anyone who enjoys cozy mystery, like me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 24, 2021
It starts off quickly with Monica being a featured guest in the local TV show but ends up with the Host being killed. Monica is working hard along with her husband, Greg, to get his bookstore going and a cafe put in as well. On top of that her brother, Jeff and Laren are having some issues but Monica knows that they would be a great couple. I am glad that Greg ends up adopting, Hercule, a dog who decided to stay at his store. The ending is very twisty but the last page gives everyone a big smile.
September 10, 2024
The story is set at a cranberry farm in Michigan. One of the owners is the main character who gets involved when a tv anchor is killed on the property. The book was an easy read.
November 17, 2020
Berried Motives is the sixth book in the Cranberry Cove Mystery series by Peg Cochran.
The harvesting of the cranberry crop at Sassamanash Farm is in full swing. Monica is busy baking scones for their store when her future sister-in-law, Lauren, enters the kitchen. She informs Monica that the local television station will soon arrive to record a segment for their What’s Up West Michigan broadcast. Betsy Dejong heads for the cranberry bog to record the cranberries’ harvesting and then head to Monica’s store to record her retail area. Monica, much relieved that her spot is over, returns to the kitchen to resume her baking. Her brother Jeff comes bursting into the kitchen, informing Monica that he just found Betsy’s body near their drive. The police will soon zero in on Dan, one of Jeff’s workers who argued earlier with Betsy, as the prime suspect. But, Monica does not believe he is capable of murder and will begin investigating to clear his name.
Monica will soon find no shortage of suspects to check out. They include Betsy’s fiance, whose first wife died under suspicious circumstances, Jasmine, the photographer, the producer of the segment, and even Betsy’s sister will come under scrutiny.
I found the book well-written and plotted, with an exciting cast of believable, engaging, and well-developed characters. This book has a beautiful new addition, Hercule, an endearing dog that has adopted Monica and Greg.
There are also delicious-sounding recipes included with the book.
I’m looking very much looking forward to the next book in this exciting series.
The harvesting of the cranberry crop at Sassamanash Farm is in full swing. Monica is busy baking scones for their store when her future sister-in-law, Lauren, enters the kitchen. She informs Monica that the local television station will soon arrive to record a segment for their What’s Up West Michigan broadcast. Betsy Dejong heads for the cranberry bog to record the cranberries’ harvesting and then head to Monica’s store to record her retail area. Monica, much relieved that her spot is over, returns to the kitchen to resume her baking. Her brother Jeff comes bursting into the kitchen, informing Monica that he just found Betsy’s body near their drive. The police will soon zero in on Dan, one of Jeff’s workers who argued earlier with Betsy, as the prime suspect. But, Monica does not believe he is capable of murder and will begin investigating to clear his name.
Monica will soon find no shortage of suspects to check out. They include Betsy’s fiance, whose first wife died under suspicious circumstances, Jasmine, the photographer, the producer of the segment, and even Betsy’s sister will come under scrutiny.
I found the book well-written and plotted, with an exciting cast of believable, engaging, and well-developed characters. This book has a beautiful new addition, Hercule, an endearing dog that has adopted Monica and Greg.
There are also delicious-sounding recipes included with the book.
I’m looking very much looking forward to the next book in this exciting series.
November 12, 2020
Monica is hard at work in the kitchen making cranberry goodies. She is excited that a local tv station will be doing a story at the cranberry bogs. Later that day the news anchor is found dead off the road near the bogs. Who killed Betsy? Her fiancé, her sister, the wannabe anchor or someone else?
I enjoyed this story and the characters. I will say it’s a good thing Monica has an assistant or her business would not be able to stay open! I do look forward to the next book.
I enjoyed this story and the characters. I will say it’s a good thing Monica has an assistant or her business would not be able to stay open! I do look forward to the next book.
July 18, 2024
I enjoyed this book but not as much as some others in the series. It had fun characters that felt like meeting up with old friends. The mystery was good. I felt Monica was going too far when she looked in someone’s bag. Curiosity is one thing but that is an invasion of privacy that just can’t be excused away. There were also come continuity issues.
Thanks to Negalley and the publishers for a free copy of the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Negalley and the publishers for a free copy of the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 24, 2023
Peg Cochran’s Berried Motives is an okay and well-paced mystery that really missed the mark. I did enjoy the plot and the interesting setting. However, the book lacks the signature cosy charm while the unmemorable characters act implausibly. This is the sixth book in the series but it works as a standalone.
Our protagonist is Monica who lives and works on a busy cranberry farm. The farm is in full harvest mode and she’s thrilled to learn that they will be featured on a local TV show. The filming goes well but the show’s unlikeable host Betsy DeJong leaves a bad impression. However, she is soon found murdered on the farm! The lengthy suspect list includes the victim’s sleazy politician fiance, her high school boyfriend who works on the farm, and the mysterious new farm photographer. As Monica digs into Betsy’s past, she uncovers secrets that anyone would kill to keep hidden.
It’s taken me three years to read this book because, honestly, it doesn’t grab your attention. Although the writing is mature, it can be quite repetitive and dull. This is especially evident in the cast of characters who are forgettable and fairly one-dimensional. Monica is a dedicated and likeable but boring protagonist. There are glimmers of personality in her eccentric stepmother Gina as well as her baking assistant Kit but they are both underutilised. But, I did appreciate the cute animals, especially the adorable dog Hercule.
The book also lacks that signature cosy charm and fun. Even the descriptions of the food are so boring! But, the quaint little town and Sassamanash Farm sound so lively and interesting. I would love to live there! I wish the book spent more time exploring this lovely world instead of noting every little detail of Monica making cranberry goodies or cooking meals.
I do like that this is a quick read and the mystery is well-paced with several viable suspects. There are several red herrings and a few predictable but still good twists. I like that I didn’t figure out the murderer until the big reveal but their motives do make sense. However, Monica’s response to the killer’s reveal is absolutely stupid. If I wasn’t near the end of the book, I really would not have finished reading. I also wish the overall mystery had more thrill and suspense because I never fully believed Monica or anyone else was in danger at all.
Furthermore, Monica’s snooping took me out of the book. She investigates Betsy’s murder because of *vague hand wave gesture*. She barges into places without any skill or finesse and the suspects simply info dump huge secrets at her. I almost abandoned the book when a smarmy salesman (who met Monica twice!) outright tells her that his boss is laundering money. She doesn’t seem to have much of a personality so I’m not sure why complete strangers are simply confessing their business to her other than to force the plot along.
Thank you to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for this book in exchange for an honest review.
🐶🐶 ½ out of 5 dogs!
Our protagonist is Monica who lives and works on a busy cranberry farm. The farm is in full harvest mode and she’s thrilled to learn that they will be featured on a local TV show. The filming goes well but the show’s unlikeable host Betsy DeJong leaves a bad impression. However, she is soon found murdered on the farm! The lengthy suspect list includes the victim’s sleazy politician fiance, her high school boyfriend who works on the farm, and the mysterious new farm photographer. As Monica digs into Betsy’s past, she uncovers secrets that anyone would kill to keep hidden.
It’s taken me three years to read this book because, honestly, it doesn’t grab your attention. Although the writing is mature, it can be quite repetitive and dull. This is especially evident in the cast of characters who are forgettable and fairly one-dimensional. Monica is a dedicated and likeable but boring protagonist. There are glimmers of personality in her eccentric stepmother Gina as well as her baking assistant Kit but they are both underutilised. But, I did appreciate the cute animals, especially the adorable dog Hercule.
The book also lacks that signature cosy charm and fun. Even the descriptions of the food are so boring! But, the quaint little town and Sassamanash Farm sound so lively and interesting. I would love to live there! I wish the book spent more time exploring this lovely world instead of noting every little detail of Monica making cranberry goodies or cooking meals.
I do like that this is a quick read and the mystery is well-paced with several viable suspects. There are several red herrings and a few predictable but still good twists. I like that I didn’t figure out the murderer until the big reveal but their motives do make sense. However, Monica’s response to the killer’s reveal is absolutely stupid. If I wasn’t near the end of the book, I really would not have finished reading. I also wish the overall mystery had more thrill and suspense because I never fully believed Monica or anyone else was in danger at all.
Furthermore, Monica’s snooping took me out of the book. She investigates Betsy’s murder because of *vague hand wave gesture*. She barges into places without any skill or finesse and the suspects simply info dump huge secrets at her. I almost abandoned the book when a smarmy salesman (who met Monica twice!) outright tells her that his boss is laundering money. She doesn’t seem to have much of a personality so I’m not sure why complete strangers are simply confessing their business to her other than to force the plot along.
Thank you to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for this book in exchange for an honest review.
🐶🐶 ½ out of 5 dogs!
November 16, 2020
Berried Motives by Peg Cochran is a cozy mystery taking place in a small town in Michigan where Monica Albertson runs a bakery and farm store in support of her half-brother, Jeff's, cranberry farm, which is finally turning a profit. Lauren, Jeff's fiancée, has taken over marketing for the enterprise and has hired a photographer to take photos for their Instagram account and has arranged for a TV interview to visit and feature them on a magazine show called What's Up West Michigan. Betsy DeJong was the interviewer and had not come dress for a cranberry farm and was flirting heavily with Jeff, which seemed to upset Lauren. Things ended up going well. That is until Betsy ended up dead along side the road to the farm.
We've visited Monica before and watched her get involved with other murders and murderers. This is nothing new. This time it's really personal as Chief Stevens has arrested one of the farm's workers and things seem really odd with Betsy DeJong's life. er much older fiancé is running for the Senate, on tip of running a couple of car dealerships. Busy man, who didn't seem all that upset at the loss of his fiancé, unless the cameras were running. Melinda, the Instagram photographer, was doing a fabulous job, but seemed stressed. Andy something was going on between Jeff and Lauren. Progress on Greg's (Monica's husband) bookstore renovation were going well, and Monica stopped by her primary source for information, the twin ladies who ran the candy story, regularly. This is a very busy cozy, as it should be, with lots of characters and subplots. Monica is a terrific baker and cook and a pretty good sleuth. This is an entertaining series. I recommend it.
I was invited to read Berried Motives was Netgalley. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #berriedmotives
We've visited Monica before and watched her get involved with other murders and murderers. This is nothing new. This time it's really personal as Chief Stevens has arrested one of the farm's workers and things seem really odd with Betsy DeJong's life. er much older fiancé is running for the Senate, on tip of running a couple of car dealerships. Busy man, who didn't seem all that upset at the loss of his fiancé, unless the cameras were running. Melinda, the Instagram photographer, was doing a fabulous job, but seemed stressed. Andy something was going on between Jeff and Lauren. Progress on Greg's (Monica's husband) bookstore renovation were going well, and Monica stopped by her primary source for information, the twin ladies who ran the candy story, regularly. This is a very busy cozy, as it should be, with lots of characters and subplots. Monica is a terrific baker and cook and a pretty good sleuth. This is an entertaining series. I recommend it.
I was invited to read Berried Motives was Netgalley. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #berriedmotives
January 15, 2021
This is the sixth book in a series by Peg Cochran and my second.
The local TV news channel is keen to feature Monica Albertson's and her brother Jeff's Sassamanash Farm on its evening show 'What's Up West Michigan.' She is absolutely thrilled that the farm will receive the publicity at cranberry harvest time but panicked as she hasn't been given much notice. But when the show’s host, Betsy DeJong's bloodied body is found by the side of the road to the farm - and Jeff is cast as the prime suspect - her problems really begin...
Although I am rather late to the party in Peg Cochran's 'Cranberry Cove Mystery' series as I started from book five, I still found Berried Motives an enthralling, fun read. I especially like the character of thirty-something baker Monica, also the proud owner of Mittens the cat. Monica creates tasty treats using cranberries that are sold in her brother's farm shop and she also does the financial accounts for the farm. The cranberry-based culinary creations that Monica makes sound absolutely delicious and I would particularly like to try the White Chocolate Cranberry Orange Cookies.
The character development was excellent, and I liked the addition of the dog named Hercule. The plotline was well done and I was turning the pages late into the night. A humourous, absorbing story of mystery and mayhem that has inspired me to read some of the other instalments.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Beyond the Page Publishing via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
The local TV news channel is keen to feature Monica Albertson's and her brother Jeff's Sassamanash Farm on its evening show 'What's Up West Michigan.' She is absolutely thrilled that the farm will receive the publicity at cranberry harvest time but panicked as she hasn't been given much notice. But when the show’s host, Betsy DeJong's bloodied body is found by the side of the road to the farm - and Jeff is cast as the prime suspect - her problems really begin...
Although I am rather late to the party in Peg Cochran's 'Cranberry Cove Mystery' series as I started from book five, I still found Berried Motives an enthralling, fun read. I especially like the character of thirty-something baker Monica, also the proud owner of Mittens the cat. Monica creates tasty treats using cranberries that are sold in her brother's farm shop and she also does the financial accounts for the farm. The cranberry-based culinary creations that Monica makes sound absolutely delicious and I would particularly like to try the White Chocolate Cranberry Orange Cookies.
The character development was excellent, and I liked the addition of the dog named Hercule. The plotline was well done and I was turning the pages late into the night. A humourous, absorbing story of mystery and mayhem that has inspired me to read some of the other instalments.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Beyond the Page Publishing via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
November 7, 2020
A visit to a cranberry farm at harvest time sounds magical. It was for everyone except Betsy, the star of the local news show. Betsy dies after filming at the farm. Monica gets involved as usual. There are some good suspects - Betsy’s fiancé, Bob Visser; Todd, her producer; Dan, her high school boyfriend and someone she kept a big secret from; and Heidi, Betsy’s sister.
Monica and Kit make lots of tasty cranberry treats. Monica goes off on her investigative jaunts and finds out more than just who may have killed Betsy.
Monica has a close brush with death as the killer tries to keep his secrets hidden.
Each of the suspects had pretty good motives so it was interesting to watch where the author took the story.
I really enjoyed my sixth visit to a cranberry farm in Michigan. Monica is a fun main character and Greg has blended fairly seamlessly into the action now that they are married. The supporting characters are a nice part of the series.
I think the bookmark could be read alone if you haven’t encountered the series before, but I always enjoy the story arc that comes from reading a series in order.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review the book prior to publication.
Monica and Kit make lots of tasty cranberry treats. Monica goes off on her investigative jaunts and finds out more than just who may have killed Betsy.
Monica has a close brush with death as the killer tries to keep his secrets hidden.
Each of the suspects had pretty good motives so it was interesting to watch where the author took the story.
I really enjoyed my sixth visit to a cranberry farm in Michigan. Monica is a fun main character and Greg has blended fairly seamlessly into the action now that they are married. The supporting characters are a nice part of the series.
I think the bookmark could be read alone if you haven’t encountered the series before, but I always enjoy the story arc that comes from reading a series in order.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review the book prior to publication.
November 21, 2020
Princess Fuzzypants here: When and up and coming newscaster is murdered after doing a piece on the Cranberry Farm, Monica feels obliged to investigate herself. She discovers the woman has managed to step on multiple toes on her climb up the ladder so there is no lack of potential suspects. This woman has numerous skeletons in her closet. Everyone from her fiancé to her sister to the people with whom she worked at the station has a gripe with her but are any of them serious enough to commit murder.
When someone close to Monica and Jeff is arrested, Monica is convinced the police have the wrong person. All the way along, even when she was being intrusive and asking questions, Monica always informed Detective Stevens. It is something that resonates. But it seems, towards the end of the book, when she should have reached out, she ignores the warning signs and of course, puts herself in mortal danger. It is something that detracts from the book when a heretofore intelligent heroine, stops being aware. It does lead to an exciting bit of suspense so I shall forgive her lapse.
Four paws and two purrs.
When someone close to Monica and Jeff is arrested, Monica is convinced the police have the wrong person. All the way along, even when she was being intrusive and asking questions, Monica always informed Detective Stevens. It is something that resonates. But it seems, towards the end of the book, when she should have reached out, she ignores the warning signs and of course, puts herself in mortal danger. It is something that detracts from the book when a heretofore intelligent heroine, stops being aware. It does lead to an exciting bit of suspense so I shall forgive her lapse.
Four paws and two purrs.
February 18, 2021
Berried Motives by Peg Cochran is the sixth novel in A Cranberry Cove Mystery series. It can be read as a standalone if you are new to the series, but you will be missing out on some good stories. I thought Berried Motives was well-written with developed, relatable characters. The story moves along at a good pace. The mystery was nicely done with multiple suspects along with misdirection. Monica actively questions people in her quest to clear Jeff’s employee off the suspect list. There are good clues to help readers solve the whodunit and the mystery was nicely wrapped up at the end. I had a good time following the investigation and solving the crime. It was interesting learning about cranberry harvesting. It is a fascinating process. There are recipes at the end for some of the items Monica made. The ending was happy and heartwarming. I enjoyed reading Berried Motives and I look forward to the next A Cranberry Cove Mystery. Berried Motives is an engaging cozy mystery with cranberry bogs, a happy hound, scrumptious salsa, a departed reporter, a suspicious senatorial candidate, and a healthy harvest.
February 22, 2021
I'm a big fan of this series but honestly, this is not my favorite book. While I love the cranberry farm and the recipe, I didn't love Monica this time. Everyone knows that a cozy has a protagonist that "investigates", when in reality it's snooping. In this book Monica crosses the line for me by reading papers that are in a backpack. I really struggled with that. And I'm really not sure why this book kept talking about Monica's hair and why do you have to check your cat's food and water so often?! I also didn't like the fact that she has figured out who the killer is and then blindly opens her door when someone is knocking on it, cue the teenage slasher movie. I will read the next book because truthfully I enjoy this series and I'm hoping Monica behaves better the next go round. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and I'm voluntarily providing an honest review.
November 3, 2020
Lights, Camera, Murder
The farm is being highlighted on a local news show and Monica is both nervous and excited. Nervous to be on camera and excited about what this could do for the farm and bakery. When the taping is wrapped, Monica and Jake are happy about the way thing went, until the TV host who interviewed them is found dead on the farm.
With the prime suspect being one of their employees, Monica begins asking questions trying to clear everyone from the farm and find out who truly murdered the woman. Now Monica has to avoid getting bogged down and becoming the next victim before she can finger the murderer.
An enjoyable series that covers all things cranberry and will have you looking at the recipes in the back while reading so that you can enjoy some of the goodies in the book. Recipes, well developed characters and a solid whodunit. It doesn’t get better than that!
The farm is being highlighted on a local news show and Monica is both nervous and excited. Nervous to be on camera and excited about what this could do for the farm and bakery. When the taping is wrapped, Monica and Jake are happy about the way thing went, until the TV host who interviewed them is found dead on the farm.
With the prime suspect being one of their employees, Monica begins asking questions trying to clear everyone from the farm and find out who truly murdered the woman. Now Monica has to avoid getting bogged down and becoming the next victim before she can finger the murderer.
An enjoyable series that covers all things cranberry and will have you looking at the recipes in the back while reading so that you can enjoy some of the goodies in the book. Recipes, well developed characters and a solid whodunit. It doesn’t get better than that!
November 24, 2020
I found this series on a whim and started in the middle and went back and got caught up. I really enjoy it. I usually gravitate towards cozy mysteries centered around books and cooking and although this series does have baking and recipes it is really about a farm. I have learned so much regarding cranberries. I have started thinking about different ways to incorporate them into savory dishes outside of Thanksgiving time.
I am excited for the next book as I can't wait to see how Monica runs with her new path in life. I love the addition of Hercules, the dog. He is a joy and adds the right amount of fun.
You can start this series with any book and be just fine. The author does a great job in giving enough background on each character.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Beyond the Page Publishing, through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
I am excited for the next book as I can't wait to see how Monica runs with her new path in life. I love the addition of Hercules, the dog. He is a joy and adds the right amount of fun.
You can start this series with any book and be just fine. The author does a great job in giving enough background on each character.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Beyond the Page Publishing, through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
November 30, 2020
Berried Motives by Peg Cochran is the sixth in the Cranberry Cove Mysteries. It can be read as a standalone.
It's harvest time for the farm and a local tv station has filmed a segment at the farm and bakery. Monica, being her observant self, picked up some red flags when it comes to the reporter, Betsy. When Betsy is found dead on the farm, Monica feels the need to get involved and starts asking questions. Is that a mistake for her or will she be next?
There are just enough plot twists and suspects. The characters are likeable and relatable. The setting is very inviting and I found myself wanting to visit. There is humor mixed through out. There is also a new addition to Monica's family. I really enjoy the fact that Monica is married. There are recipes included.
I was given an ARC be Beyond the Page Publishing and NetGalley for an honest review.
It's harvest time for the farm and a local tv station has filmed a segment at the farm and bakery. Monica, being her observant self, picked up some red flags when it comes to the reporter, Betsy. When Betsy is found dead on the farm, Monica feels the need to get involved and starts asking questions. Is that a mistake for her or will she be next?
There are just enough plot twists and suspects. The characters are likeable and relatable. The setting is very inviting and I found myself wanting to visit. There is humor mixed through out. There is also a new addition to Monica's family. I really enjoy the fact that Monica is married. There are recipes included.
I was given an ARC be Beyond the Page Publishing and NetGalley for an honest review.
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