Helpful Score: 2
And Then There Were Crumbs by Eve Calder is the first novel in A Cookie House Mystery series. I like the authors casual writing style which made the book easy to read. Kate McGuire has a bad day when the restaurant where she works goes out of business, her apartment building is sold and going condo, and she broke off her engagement to a cheating louse. Kate relocates to Coral Cay and gets a non-baking position at The Cookie House. When her new boss is accused of murder, Kate works to prove his innocence. I like that Kate is a strong, independent character. Her new best friend, Maxi Mas-Buchanan is a delight along with her large family. She is a florist who works magic with blooms. There is a cast of secondary characters that enliven the story and help in solving the case. Oliver is a large, friendly puppy that belongs to the town. The mystery was clever. It was a unique whodunit which I just loved. It can be solved before the reveal thanks to the clues sprinkled throughout the story. I like how Maxi and Kate work together and get help from the other townspeople. I hope the author keeps providing unique mysteries in future installments of A Cookie House Mystery series. I did feel, though, that the book was too long (352 pages). Fifty pages could have easily been edited which would have enhanced the book (tightened it up) and improved the sluggish pace in the middle of And Then There Were Crumbs. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful new cozy mystery. There were humorous situations, tasty cookies, tempting sourdough bread (yum) and jovial moments. I was tickled pink that there was not a hint of a romance for Kate. One of my favorite lines from the book is âI can't believe I have my very own kitchen elf. Look out Harry Potter.â And Then There Were Crumbs is a tempting cozy mystery with appetizing pastries, a cozy southern Florida town, Francine the sourdough starter, a clever canine, and two curious meddlers.
Joy L. (vintagejoy) -
Helpful Score: 1
I loved the book! I can't wait for the next one. I do have to agree with Kristina about the length of the book, it drags somewhat perilously at times. Easily could have taken out pages and it would move along much faster.
Elizabeth H. (book-haven2) reviewed And Then There Were Crumbs (Cookie House, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
What a fun read. I learned so much about baking. Entertaining and delightful.
