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Mission Improbable: Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery) by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Christine Baranek

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Mission Improbable:Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery)Mission Improbable:Vietnam by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mission Improbable: Vietnam
By: Nancy Nau Sullivan

This is a fantastic mystery novel that has elements of history, adventure and the main character reflecting on her life. Blanche is on a journey with Jean McMahon to find Jean’s mother. Blanche is interested in going on this journey so that she can explore her own history as well as find out more about her own father’s death.
The author has particular talent in setting the scene of Vietnam after the Vietnam war. This is so interesting to me as I don’t know much about Vietnam, yet the author did a great job in visually taking me there. She did a fantastic job describing the culture as well and I found myself completely engrossed in these details.
Nancy Nau Sullivan does a fantastic job in creating characters that are developed and relatable. I especially loved Blanche – she was a special kind of stubborn that I definitely enjoyed.
The story is well paced and filled with twists and turns. I loved how the author combined mystery with history and looked at the effects of war that last long after the war ends. I definitely recommend picking this story up!

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The Cold Kid Case (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Tonya Merritt

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The Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The story is an easy one to follow, full of mystery and crime. Told from the perspective of 11 year old Sparky. Sparky is quirky and fun loving. This story, though directed towards a younger age group, is still a good story for all ages to read and will keep you well entertained.

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Recipe For Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith – Review by Carrie Reed

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Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery (An April May Cozy Mystery Book Book 2)Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I did not read the first book and I wish I did because it would have given me some insight to the characters and the town of Laurel Lake. Although I didn’t read the first book, I didn’t feel lost, I still was able to make connections and understand the dynamic between characters. I love to see a city woman fall in love with small towns, especially when it involves a man and a sweet dog. The story and how it all unfolded was wonderful, I literally felt like I was watching an episode from a some sort of detective show. At some times I felt like I knew who was creeping around and watching April then was pulled in 2 other directions. I did figure out who stole from Tim’s store but I did not see it coming, the outcome of April investigating her father’s death and how it really happened. Wesley is a wonderful man and I loved watching him with April and hope to see more of them in future books.

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The Cold Kid Case (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Betsy Melano

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The Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Sparky of Bunker Hill series, that I’m reading written by this author. Although this is geared towards teen to YA readers, I enjoyed reading it. The author does a great job describing the world that Sparky is living in detail. Sparky is a very interesting character along with many of the other characters we meet as we read the book. Sparky is wrongfully accused of murder. How will she prove she wasn’t the murderer? Who will stand beside her and help Sparky clear her name? Sparky is relatable and seems to live a exciting life in 1930’s, a kid who’s had to grow up mostly on her own. I would have loved reading a story like this as a young teen.

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The Cannibal Caper (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

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The Cannibal Caper: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cannibal Caper: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

We are back with another wild mystery solving adventure with Sparky. I absolutely adore seeing how this pint sized detective sleuths her way into all of the different shenanigans throughout this tale. We see some of our old friends from the previous book, as well as some new ones! I love the creativity of the author and how well detailed the story is, you really do feel like you are back in the 1030’s with Sparky as she navigates detective work as well as surviving her real life as well. Again, the story has all sorts of twists and turns with red herrings all around. I was so excited when I saw there was a second book out in the series and I can’t wait to read book 3.

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The Cold Kid Case (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

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The Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well I found this to be a very well written and entertaining story set in the 1930’s. We meet Sparky a sassy and street wise 11 year old orphan who, after finding a dead body, has to clear her name quickly as the body count rises. I was pleasantly surprised at how engaging I found a book about an 11 year old sleuth to be, this is definitely not a book for kids, adults can absolutely enjoy this story. The author did an awesome job with details, making you feel like you really are in Depression Era LA. She writes memorable and descriptive characters that you can absolutely picture in your mind. I loved all of the twists and turns that the story had right up until the end. I am absolutely looking forward to seeing Sparky again in more capers.

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The Cold Kid Case (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by La Toya Lewis

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The Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Cold Case Kid by Rosalind Barden is part of the Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery series. When 11-year-old street kid Sparky discovers a dead body, she is made a suspect for the crime. She has to hide out after she sees everyone turn on her. Sparky puts her wits to good use and goes on a mission to try to solve the crime. This story was not what I expected. Despite being aimed at kids this was a very engaging story for adults. Sparky is a well-written preteen. Sassy, spunky, and very much a street kid. There was humor and twists that helped keep you engaged. The story is richly woven and pulls you in. I enjoyed this story.

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Mission Improbable: Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery) by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Jennifer Crain

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Mission Improbable:Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery)Mission Improbable:Vietnam by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Overall, Mission Improbable: Vietnam is a gripping mystery novel that combines elements of history, adventure, and personal introspection. The story follows Blanche “Bang” Murninghan as she embarks on a journey to Vietnam with Jean McMahon in search of Jean’s mother. For Blanche, this is not only a quest to find someone else’s loved one but also an opportunity to uncover her own family history and closure regarding her father’s death in Vietnam.

The author does an incredible job of immersing the reader in the setting of post-Vietnam War Vietnam. The descriptions of the landscapes, culture, and people are vivid and atmospheric. From the rice paddies to the bustling streets of Saigon, the author creates a sense of place that feels authentic and rich in detail.

The characters are well-developed and relatable, especially Blanche. Her determination and stubbornness make her a compelling protagonist. Jean McMahon, with her own personal motivations for finding her mother, adds depth to the story and creates an interesting dynamic between the two women. Additionally, the introduction of Stick Dahlkamp as a Vietnam War veteran and ally to Blanche and Jean adds another layer of complexity to the narrative.

The pacing kept me engaged throughout. There are several twists and turns that not only heighten the suspense but also provide insights into the lingering effects of war and the secrets that can be buried within its aftermath. The blend of mystery, history, and personal growth makes for a compelling and thought-provoking read.

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Recipe For Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith – Review by Sheri Schrader

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Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery (An April May Cozy Mystery Book Book 2)Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery is the second book in the An April May Cozy Mystery Book series. I read this before the previous book, and it holds up fairly well as a standalone. I was missing some details and insight into April May, but I did not feel lost in the plot. This is a small-town cozy mystery with a cast of fun characters. I enjoyed getting to know April May, her dog, and reading about her blossoming relationship. She gets into some dangerous situations but figures her way out. I won’t give details about the plot because nothing is worse than spoilers, especially with a murder mystery. I recently read a different book by this author and thought I would check out a different series. I enjoyed the characters and the plot. I will keep an eye out for more from this author in the future.

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The Cold Kid Case by Rosalind Barden – Review by Samantha Cleaver

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The Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wow. This was my first read by this author and it did not disappoint!

The Cold Kid Case is the first book in the Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery series. This book was aimed toward a younger audience, but I definitely still enjoyed it. It’s set in Los Angeles in the 1930s

Sparky is on a mission to solve a mystery and clear her name. This book kept me very engaged with twists and turns.

A def read!

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Recipe For Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith – Review by Anastasia Dodson

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Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery (An April May Cozy Mystery Book Book 2)Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book that i have read by this author and i loved it! It’s about a women named April. She is from the big city so small town living and outdoor activities aren’t her strong suit but she ends up trying many different things. She even helped solve a mystery invoving a murder. She was an awsome mc. I am looking forward to more by this author in the future!

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The Cannibal Caper (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Kerry Baker

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The Cannibal Caper: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cannibal Caper: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This boom is a great follow up to the first book and I really enjoyed getting to know more about Sparky. She off on another adventure, trying to solve another mystery. The mix of characters in the book is great. It is clearly well thought it and they all add so much to it.
The book is really well written and imaginative. The author draws you into the story with ease and keeps your attention right to the end. This is a great addition to the story and I am looking forward to Sparky’s next adventure.

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The Cold Kid Case (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Tausha Treadway

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The Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Cold Kid Case (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden. This is such a good cozy historical, mystery. I loved 11 year old orphan, Sparky, who is in the Bunker Hill, Los Angeles area in the 1930s. Sparky is a smart mouthed, spunky, know it all that is now accused of murdering another young kid in the area. Since she is a amateur private investigator she knows she’s got to investigate this because if not she will end up in jail. Sparky meets lots of different people in her investigation and sees lots of things in the area. She is very old for her age. I felt bad for her being accused of something she didn’t do and I was rooting for her. Will she be able to help the cops find the real killer before its too late or will she end up going to jail. Read this fun mystery to find out!

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Slay it With a Diamond by Rob Bates- Review by Laura Jones

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Recipe For Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery (An April May Cozy Mystery Book Book 2)Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Recipe for Revenge is book 2 of An April May Cozy Mystery Book series by Hazel Smith. In this story, we follow April May, a reporter who lives in the small town of Laurel Lakes. Everything is going from bad to worse when what starts as a robbery ends up with its owner being presumed dead. This is a fun cozy mystery. The plot is entertaining and keeps you guessing. We also get a fun cast of characters including the cuteness of Ralph the dog. This is the second mystery I have read by this author and she knows how to keep you hooked. Extra credit for good, fun small-town vibes.

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Recipe For Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith – Review by Julie Johnson

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Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery (An April May Cozy Mystery Book Book 2)Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4.75 Stars

April has moved into her grandmother’s late house after having it willed to her. She’s more accustomed to life in Chicago but she’s getting adjusted to Laurel Lake but only temporarily. Weird things start to happen around her and then there’s the mysterious notes being left. Will April open a part of her past that she may not be ready to deal with?

This was a very enjoyable story. I loved Buddy/Ralph and his role in this story. There is one overarching theme in this book with several little offshoots which make the reader want to come back for more!

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Ghost Takes A Vacation (Genie and Adriana Darling Cozy Paranormal Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Carmen Radtke – Review by Heather Lovelace

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Ghost Takes A VacationGhost Takes A Vacation by Carmen Radtke
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Such a fun unexpected read. I enjoyed the character development from the author and the relationship between the main character and her ghostly relative. Quirky and fun, this book is an easy read and one that will provide a great afternoon break from reality. Really enjoyed it.

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Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Heidi Sturgess

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Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries #1)Murder at the Wedding by Christine Knapp
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What’s not to love about being part of bringing new life into the world !? Being there when there’s a struggle to conceive and then it happens!? Holding a parent while they mourn a loss ( you have to have a big heart for that ) being there when a prognosis is made ….

Maeve and husband Will live in Langford , a small seaside town where Will is a caterer and Maeve is a midwife , life seems idyllic , that is until the chief of obstetrics drops dead at his daughters wedding and Will did the carrying ! Oh my goodness this is a disaster 🙈

Maeve is determined to prove her husbands innocence . Look I like Maeve she’s a real gem and she’s got so many facets to her character and can be witty , sarcastic , funny , serious , empathetic and sympathetic , she’s a good wife , sister , friend , midwife and sister 🌸

Just having finished the series “ Call the Midwife” I really enjoy the midwife side of this book but I also enjoy that issues dealt with were done so in a sympathetic and honest way , real and honest .

This is a series that has potential to be a good series for television 😉🥰

Recipe For Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book #2) by Hazel Smith – Review by Angela Hayes

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Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery (An April May Cozy Mystery Book Book 2)Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3.5 Stars

 

Recipe For Revenge is the second book in the April May Cozy Mystery series by Hazel Smith. This proved to be an interesting and fun cozy murder mystery- a whodunnit with quirky characters, drama, intrigue, a little suspense, a plot for revenge, crime and investigation, secrets, a journey of discovery, a race against time, high stakes, tension, and intrigue – which made for a light-hearted and entertaining read.
April is a reporter who is new to town. Here she is drawn into a murder mystery with some puzzling developments. Along with her dog, Ralph, she sets about digging up clues, uncovering secrets, and revealing the truth. With the stakes being quite high, April is in a race against time to solve the investigation before it’s too late. What happens makes for an intriguing read.
Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Hazel Smith!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Recipe For Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith – Review by Daryian Lucas

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Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery (An April May Cozy Mystery Book Book 2)Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4/5 stars
This was my first time reading a book by this author. This is book 2in the series but it can 100% be read as a standalone. I liked the beginning of the book but the ending was just okay to me. I liked the dynamic between the characters a lot and I did feel like a detective myself trying to figure out the plot.

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Recipe For Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery (An April May Cozy Mystery Book Book 2)Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Revenge, small towns, murder, mystery what more could you want? Hazel has given us it all and more in this charming cozy mystery. If you love a good whodunnit then Hazel is your girl.
This is book two but all the April May Mystery books are standalones so you can grab and read in any order without fear of missing anything other than a good story.
Recipe For Revenge is a cozy mystery that is a quick and fun read with characters that are quirky and eclectic.
April May and friends are back in another adventure along with furry friends diving headfirst in to yet another mystery. With a plethora of suspects April is on a merry chase to find the one responsible for the possible murder and thefts.
This charming tale is clever, suspenseful, fun and humorous that will delight any reader who love a good whodunnit.
I said it before but will say it again if you like murder mysteries and whodunits with some humour like Ms Marple, Father Brown, and the like you will enjoy this series. Settle in for a tale to delight your senses.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Recipe For Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith – Review by Kerry Baker

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Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery (An April May Cozy Mystery Book Book 2)Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith

This book is a fun and entertaining cozy mystery story that really pulls you in right from the word go. The main character for me is absolutely what makes this book. She is so funny to read about and I connected with her so easily. It is such fun watching her navigate everything thrown on her and I could have carried on reading all day.
The story itself is really good too. I was intrigued by everything going on and want to see how things would turn out and who would be involved. This is the kind of book I found myself reading so fast because I couldn’t put it down. This is a brilliant story and entertaining from start to finish.

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Recipe For Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery (An April May Cozy Mystery Book Book 2)Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an entertaining and totally unputdownable mystery. I found April May to be one the most intriguing characters that I’ve read in a cozy mystery this year. She’s torn between wanting to go back to the big city and staying in the small town she’s in. Wesley sounds like an adorable vet. My mind pictures Mat from Fuller House. Adorable. I loved the mystery because it seemed to have its own little subsets branching out. The cast of characters was perfect for a small town mystery. I couldn’t stop reading this once I started. It’s fun, humorous and will have you giggling as you figure out who the culprit is. A wonderful book. I’m going to have to go back and read the first book.

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Recipe for Revenge by Hazel Smith – Review by Samantha Cleaver

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Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery (An April May Cozy Mystery Book Book 2)Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Absolutely loved this book! It’s a cozy mystery with some cute romance thrown in. It had a couple fun plot twists and the story is very believable. Hazel draws you in and makes you feel like you’re part of the story. Definitely recommend!

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Recipe for Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith

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♦️📖♦️📖♦️ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ♦️📖♦️📖♦️

Recipe For Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith

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Genre – Clean Cozy Mystery

Page Count – 255

Cover Designer – Charli Childs

Goodreads – Recipe for Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith

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A burglary, a new romance, and a missing person: there’s never a dull moment for April May, Laurel Lake’s newest town reporter.

Especially when the robbed store burns to the ground and the cantankerous owner is presumed dead.

Theories run wild from the coffee shop to the craft club, where April still can’t crochet to save her life.

Until strange sightings and a threatening note plunge this big-city girl turned small-town sleuth into a thickening plot of intrigue.

It would be easier to sniff out the clues with the help of her foster dog Ralph, only a suspicious stranger suddenly turned up to claim him.

With the comfort and help of her new friends and the handsome vet in town, April discovers curious connections between Ralph’s owner, recent events, and her mysterious past.

When a close call puts her sweetheart in the hospital, April has to race against time to find out who has cooked up this recipe for revenge.

Unless she who it is quickly, April may not end up in the hospital but in the morgue.

~ AMAZON ~


Click here to view the Book Trailer for Recipe for Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith

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Hazel Smith is the pen name for an introverted homeschooling mom who lives in small-town Canada. Faith, family and food bring joy, hope and occasional drama to her life. In between taking care of her family & home, her free time is spent creating cozy mysteries on the porch with her laptop or in her favorite wingback chair whilst nursing the baby and typing with one finger. 

Author Interview with Hazel Smith

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The Cold Kid Case (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Alison Risher

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The Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a mystery. It is told in the first perspective, from the point of view of a young girl living on the streets. It is set in Los Angeles in the 1930s. The main character finds herself needing to prove she did not commit a heinous crime. Along the way, she learns the importance of considering the feelings of others.

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Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3) by Rob Bates – Review by Jade Brunton

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Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3)Slay It With a Diamond by Rob Bates
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was hooked on this book from the second chapter. I couldn’t put it down. This is a mystery that doesn’t disappoint. Each chapter gives more and more information, leaving you to try and figure out the true story behind this diamond. I loved the main character, Mimi, she was smart and sassy and even though her confidence wavered in the beginning she developed a little more chapter by chapter. This was my first read from this author but it will not be my last.

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Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3) by Rob Bates – Review by Faith Jackson

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Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3)Slay It With a Diamond by Rob Bates
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a quick read that sent you down all sorts of twists and turns. The whole book from beginning to end took you on a turn you never expected. The characters and the story of mystery had me on a chase I wasn’t expecting. I enjoyed reading this one. I love that this is a series as well so I can follow along with where this goes from here. Great job!

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Murky Murder (A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery Book) by Hazel Smith – Review by Netania Lim

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Murky Murder: An Utterly Addictive Cozy Murder Mystery (A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery Book)Murky Murder: An Utterly Addictive Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a fun quick cozy murder mystery. I didn’t realise this book is the fourth in a series but I enjoyed it anyway, so you don’t necessarily have to read the rest of the series first. I find the cozy murder genre to be a bit of a comfort read type but this was made better by the fact that the characters are quirky rather than smart. Every page leaves you hanging and you just can’t put the book down. I love an escapist read and this gives in spades.

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Murky Murder (A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery Book) by Hazel Smith – Review by Christie Mitchum

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Murky Murder (A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery, #4)Murky Murder by Hazel Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Murky Murder was a cute, cozy, and heartwarming mystery!

Life is looking good for Ivy. She has been promoted to the new head maid at Hotel LaFontaine, and her first date with her boss, Max Humphrey, was a success except for one creepy interruption, someone rushing into the restaurant brandishing a knife. However, it was short-lived and the hooded man left almost as quickly as he appeared, escaping security.

The hotel is all abuzz with a business conference with many successful, elite businessmen and women arriving. Nothing ruins success like a murder, and that is just what happens not long after guests arrive. One of the guests is found in his room, and there are plenty of suspects as he isn’t the most liked person. If that wasn’t enough, Ivy discovers that the random person who came running towards their table at dinner on their first date wasn’t random. It seems like someone has something against Max as cryptic and threatening notes begin to appear.

I love quirky characters, and Murky Murder is packed with them. I love Ivy. She is tenacious and so likable. She is determined to discover who the murderer is and how it connects to herself and Max. Max was just as likable as Ivy was, and the two make a great team. I’m so glad that the romance between the two of them is not rushed. It’s utterly charming!!! The addition of great secondary characters and the dogs made it even better! There are some twists and turns and no shortage of suspects that kept the book rolling along at a great pace.

This book is the 4th in the series, and while it was very easy to read without any confusion from not reading the earlier books, I liked it so much that I would love to go back and read the prior books. It reminds me of my favorite TV mysteries on PBS and Brit Box, and it was a perfect way to spend the day… helping Ivy solve the case and drinking a nice cup of hot tea.

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