Snowy with a Chance of Murder: A Chilling, Captivating Return to Cabot Cove

 

As a lifelong fan of the “Murder, She Wrote” series — I raised my kids watching this series — I can say with confidence that Snowy with a Chance of Murder, the 60th installment (And another is on the way! Woot! Woot!) is one of the best yet.

 

 The story kicks off with Jessica taking a nasty spill on the ice, confining her to a wheelchair. Unable to join a Mystery Lovers cruise, she’s forced to stay home, where she’s drawn into an intriguing mystery right across the street. A new neighbor, Mr. Rymer, moves in and immediately stirs up Cabot Cove with his risqué snow sculptures—naked figures that spark debates over art versus public decency. When the sculptures are vandalized at night, Rymer shrugs it off, rebuilding them with fresh snow as a blizzard looms. But the morning after the storm, Jessica peers out her window to find a chilling sight: Rymer’s body half-buried in the snow, next to a new sculpture. From her chair, Jessica must unravel whether a cold-blooded killer is lurking in her beloved town.

 

 Cabot Cove is my favorite setting for Jessica’s adventures. The familiar cast—Seth, Loretta, and more— the atmosphere, all shine brightly, with delightful moments like a spa day at Loretta’s Beauty Parlor that had me smiling ear to ear. The nod to Hitchcock’s “Rear Window” is brilliant! It captured Jessica’s sharp sleuthing from her confined vantage point without ever feeling derivative. There is a terrific balance of cozy charm and suspense, pulling in all of Jessica’s friends for a story that feels both intimate and expansive.

 

 What sets this book apart is how Barbara Early nails the “Murder, She Wrote” formula, something recent writers struggled to do after the passing of Donald Bain. Early’s Jessica is pitch-perfect—witty, warm, and relentlessly curious—while the quirky snow sculpture mystery feels fresh yet quintessentially Cabot Cove. The addition of a likable young helper hired by Seth adds a new layer of heart to the story, making Jessica’s world feel vibrant and lived-in.

 

  I’ve been hooked on this series since Bain’s era, and Snowy with a Chance of Murder recaptures that magic with gusto. It’s a fun, atmospheric read that kept me guessing until the end, and it’s easily the best since Bain’s time. I’m thrilled Barbara Early has taken the reins and hope she pens many more. For longtime fans and newcomers alike, this is a must-read. Five stars without hesitation!

 You can grab your copy here.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

Ooh La La! Kids Cook French by Barbara Beery, Reviewed

Ooh La La! Kids Cook French by best-selling children’s cookbook author Barbara Beery is a delightful and sophisticated introduction to French cuisine that transcends its “children’s cookbook” label. Aimed at grades 5 to 9 (ages 10 to 14), this book is a treasure for young chefs and adults alike, offering a vibrant, extremely doable, and beautifully presented collection of classic French recipes. With its full-color photographs and clear instructions, it’s a perfect blend of education and inspiration for anyone eager to explore the art of French cooking.

 Ooh La La! Kids Cook French is more than just a cookbook; it’s a gateway to a lifelong love of cooking. Its universal appeal makes it an ideal gift for young chefs, families, or anyone who appreciates French cuisine. It’s also a fantastic hostess gift, especially for households with children, as it encourages shared cooking experiences. 

While marketed for children, it’s far from childish. The book’s sleek presentation and carefully thought out selection of recipes make it a standout among cookbooks for the young. From the five French mother sauces—béchamel, hollandaise, velouté, espagnole, and tomato—to toothsome savory dishes like chicken cordon bleu and quiche Lorraine, to sweet treats like macarons and crêpes, the recipes are both authentic and approachable. Each dish is presented with its name in both English and French, adding a touch of cultural flair that immerses readers in the French culinary experience without overwhelming them.

 Instructions are concise and kid-friendly, never talking down to the reader, which makes the book perfect for budding cooks. The focus on herbs, spices, and foundational sauces is particularly noteworthy, equipping readers with skills that even seasoned chefs value. Whether you’re whipping up a sparkling pink lemonade, French onion soup, or a batch of fresh baguettes, the recipes are designed to be achievable yet impressive.One of the book’s greatest strengths is its stunning photography. Each recipe is accompanied by drool-worthy, full-color images that make you want to dive into the kitchen immediately. The visuals not only inspire but also guide young cooks by showing what the finished dish should look like. The range of recipes is impressive, covering savory soups (like the delectable French carrot and tomato soups), hearty mains, and delicate pastries. Every dish feels carefully chosen to balance simplicity with authenticity, ensuring that both kids and adults can succeed in the kitchen.I tested two recipes from the book—French carrot soup and tomato soup—and both were outstanding. The instructions were straightforward, and the results were rich, flavorful, and true to their French roots. These dishes alone convinced me of the book’s value, as they delivered restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. The inclusion of recipes like French potato salad and mushroom crepes further showcases the book’s versatility, offering something for every palate and occasion.This book is scheduled for publication on November 4, you can pre-order your copy here.

 Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A Very Bookish Murder by Dee MacDonald (Ally McKinley Mystery #3), Reviewed

 

Dee MacDonald’s A Very Bookish Murder, the third installment in the Ally McKinley Mystery series, is a delightful cozy mystery that immerses readers in the charming Highland village of Locharran. As a first-time reader of MacDonald’s work, I was thoroughly enchanted by this fast-paced, engaging tale that blends a gripping whodunit with vivid characters and a picturesque Scottish setting.

 The story centers on Ally McKinley, a guesthouse owner and amateur sleuth who finds herself embroiled in yet another murder investigation. When renowned novelist Jodi Jones hosts a writers’ retreat in Locharran, Ally welcomes some of the attendees to her cozy Auld Malthouse B&B. The retreat takes a dark turn when Jodi is found strangled in the hotel’s ladies’ bathroom during the inaugural session. As Ally digs into the case—assisted by her faithful puppy Flora, her partner Ross, and a new detective, DI Amir Kandahar—the mystery deepens with accusations of plagiarism, infidelity, and hidden grudges among the retreat’s attendees. The stakes escalate when another writer, claiming to know the killer’s identity, is found dead, making it clear the murderer is still at large and determined to keep their secrets buried.

 MacDonald crafts a compelling mystery with a well-paced plot that keeps you guessing. The cast of characters—from the eclectic writers’ group to the quirky locals—brings Locharran to life, making it feel like a character in its own right. Ally is a relatable and likable protagonist, balancing her amateur sleuthing with warmth and wit, while DI Kandahar’s fresh perspective and surprising respect for Ally’s insights add a new dynamic to the series. The subplot involving the dramatic delivery of twin heirs to the Countess of Locharran adds a heartwarming layer to the story, showcasing MacDonald’s knack for weaving personal moments into the suspense.

 The book’s cozy atmosphere, with its quaint Scottish setting and minimal gore, makes it a perfect read for fans of bloodless mysteries. While it stands alone well, the rich character development and hints of past adventures left me eager to dive into the first two books in the series. The climactic “ah-ha” moment is both satisfying and thrilling, tying up loose ends while keeping the stakes high.

 Overall, A Very Bookish Murder is a captivating, character-driven mystery that delivers on both plot and charm. Dee MacDonald has crafted a series that’s sure to delight cozy mystery enthusiasts. Highly recommended for anyone who loves a clever puzzle set in a cozy Highland village!

 You can order your copy here.

 Rating: 4.5/5 stars

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

 I received a complimentary ​digital copy of this book​ from NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Parm to Table: Italian American and American Italian Recipes from Ponza to the Bronx, Reviewed

 

Parm to Table by Christian Petroni is hands-down my new favorite Italian cookbook, and as a St. Louis native with a serious Italian food obsession (thanks to the late Mr. O-P’s lasagna obsession and our city’s legendary “Hill” neighborhood), that’s saying something. This book is like a big, warm hug from an Italian nonna, mixed with a Bronx-born chef’s swagger and a sprinkle of Food Network flair. It’s fun, it’s unfussy, and it’s packed with recipes that’ll have you cooking like you grew up in an Italian kitchen.Christian Petroni, a chef who cut his teeth in his uncle’s Italian restaurant and spent summers soaking up old-world vibes on the coast of Naples, brings all that heritage to the table. His debut cookbook, Parm to Table, is a delicious mash-up of Italian-American classics and Ponza-inspired dishes that feel like they’re straight out of your family’s Sunday supper. With over 70 recipes, this book covers everything from 8-Hour Marinara Sauce and Neapolitan Eggplant Parmigiana to weeknight lifesavers like My Babe’s Sausage & Peppers and crowd-pleasers like Fresh Mozzarella Sticks. There’s even a chapter for dolci (sweets!) to satisfy your sweet tooth.

  

Many things make this book appealing. For starters, it’s organized in a way that just makes sense: Italian-American Classics, Family-Style Meals, Weeknight Go-To’s, Ponza-inspired dishes, plus sections for soups, braises, heros (sandwiches), and sauces. Whether you’re craving a cozy Lasagna “Calabrese Influence” or a quick Potato Frittata, there’s something for every mood. The ingredients are accessible—think stuff you can grab at any grocery store or have in your pantry—and the recipes lean hard into olive oil for that rich, soul-satisfying flavor. 

 Additionally, Christian’s personality shines through with funny little comments sprinkled throughout, making you feel like you’re cooking with a buddy. The lush photography is a feast for the eyes (though I wouldn’t mind a few more pics for us visual learners). You also get a peek into Christian’s life—his Bronx roots, his family, and how he went from a kid in the kitchen to a Food Network star. It’s like a memoir and a cookbook rolled into one, and it makes every recipe feel personal.

For beginners who want to whip up authentic Italian dinners for two, this book is a godsend. The instructions are clear, the equipment is stuff you probably already own, and Christian even throws in tips for nailing the best flavors (like which staples to keep on hand). It’s perfect for anyone who loves Italian food but doesn’t want to deal with pretentious recipes or hard-to-find ingredients. I’m already planning to cook my way through this one, from Spaghetti Vongole to Zia Gisella’s Braised Calamari Pasta.If you’re an Italian food lover, a beginner cook, or just someone who wants to bring a little Bronx-Italian magic to your kitchen, Parm to Table is a must. It’s fun, it’s flavorful, and it’s bound to become your go-to for cozy, crowd-pleasing meals. Grab a copy, pour some wine, and get cooking—you won’t regret it!This book is scheduled for publication on September 23, you can pre-order your copy here.

 Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The Last Laugh Club by Kate Galley, Reviewed

 

Kate Galley’s “The Last Laugh Club” is a heartwarming and poignant tale that weaves together themes of friendship, forgiveness, and unexpected adventures. As my second foray into Galley’s work, this novel solidified my commitment to read everything she writes. Her ability to craft authentic, relatable characters and stories that resonate with women “of a certain age” is remarkable, delivering a narrative that feels both grounded and uplifting without ever patronizing the reader.

The story follows Bridget, a reluctant adventurer, who finds herself honoring her late friend Norman’s final wish: to scatter his ashes in the Shetland Islands. Clad in the vibrant, woolly jumper Norman knitted for her, Bridget is joined by two former colleagues, glamorous Gloria and reserved Derek, each sporting their own knitted gifts. The trio, estranged for years, are thrown together in a battered minivan, armed with too much yarn and not enough patience, embarking on a journey that’s as much about reconciling their past as it is about fulfilling Norman’s request.

 Galley excels at creating complex, flawed, and deeply human characters. Bridget’s cautious pragmatism clashes deliciously with Gloria’s bold flair and Derek’s easygoing nature, creating a dynamic that crackles with tension and history. Norman, though absent, looms large as the mischievous mastermind who uses his final act to mend old wounds among his friends. The slow unraveling of their shared past reveals the power of miscommunication and the importance of seizing life’s fleeting moments—a message that hits home without feeling heavy-handed.

 The Shetland Islands setting is a character in itself, vividly brought to life through Galley’s evocative descriptions. As a fan of the “Shetland” TV series, I found it effortless to visualize the windswept landscapes, stormy ferry rides, and cozy knitwear moments, which added a delightful layer of immersion. The backdrop amplifies the story’s emotional weight, with storm clouds mirroring the trio’s initial discord and the island’s rugged beauty reflecting their eventual growth.

 This is a beautifully crafted story that celebrates the messy, enduring power of connection, coupled with the ups and downs of aging. Galley’s storytelling is both tender and unflinching, capturing life’s realities with grace. I eagerly await Galley’s next work and wholeheartedly recommend this novel.

 Preorder your copy here.

 Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Murder, She Wrote: A Killer Christmas, Reviewed

I’m dating myself here, but I watched the pilot episode of "Murder, She Wrote" when it first aired on television. I knew from that very moment, despite being unfamiliar with Angela Lansbury, that I was going to love that series, and I did. It is wonderful that it continues on in this series of books that always makes me feel as though I am sitting by a fire, wrapped in a warm blanket, sipping a cup of cocoa or tea. I can easily visualize the characters from those in the series, I can hear their voices, I can smell that salty sea air.

Photo credit: Universal Studios

The latest book in the series, A Killer Christmas (book number 59!), scheduled for release on Tuesday, like the others, captures Jessica and Cabot Cove quite well. Not all of the books in the series take place in Cabot Cove (How could they?), but this one does, and those are my favorites. It also takes place around the holiday season, and that makes it even more enjoyable in my estimation. It centers around copious holiday preparations, where the town is competing with others across the state in the hope of being named the most seasonal in all of Maine, an honor that comes with a cash prize. Meanwhile, Cabot Cove realtor, Eve Simpson, is delighting over the fact that she has finally found a buyer for an old property, long vacated, that is going to mean a hefty commission. The mystery is a good one, the characters are at their absolute best, (I have to admit to loving Eve), the book is as enjoyable as expected, and I can’t wait for more.

 I am so grateful to the variety of authors who have delighted us with this series over the years. Keep them coming. This "Murder, She Wrote" fan can never get enough.

Many thanks to NetGalley, author Terrie Farley Moran, and Dreamscape Media for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Alpenglow, Outdoor Celebrations for Every Occasion by Hillary Munro, reviewed

My experience with outdoor living doesn’t extend much beyond Girl Scout camp, the days of which I can count as among the worst in my life. Where not only did it rain, our tent become infested with daddy long legs, the proffered water taste strongly of iron, but the food that they gave us was borderline poisonous. How different things might have been had a lovely book like this one been available for the Girl Scout leaders to peruse in order to make the experience a lovely one rather than fodder for nightmares. But I digress…

Alpenglow, Outdoor Celebrations for Every Occasion by Hillary Munro is a beautiful book, and not just beautiful, but inspiring. Just paging through, looking at the gorgeous photos made me feel much more relaxed. I no longer have access to the wide open spaces that I used to, but despite that, it really has me thinking about outdoor dining in the coming months, and planning for next spring and summer. Is there anything better than feeling at one with nature at a time when you are nourishing your body? This book shows you how to nourish not only body, but mind and soul as well.

  The word “alpenglow,” for the uninitiated, refers to “… the magic hour when the sky turns shades of pink and orange, not found on a color wheel…” isn’t that lovely?The book is set in the author’s home in the high mountain valley of Jackson, Wyoming, but the gatherings and parties, rituals and recipes, projects and crafts, can take place anywhere.

Both cookbook and lifestyle book, there are some wonderful recipes in here, not only for food, but also for party favors and various crafts as well. The photography by Lisa Flood is beautiful. The recipes and craft instructions are easy to follow, and perfectly doable even for the most inexperienced cook. 

 The book is divided into five sections:

Winter Gatherings

Spring Gatherings

Summer Gatherings

Fall Gatherings

Handcrafted Gifts

 One section more inspiring than the other, each with its own recipes, craft, and unique ideas for gatherings.

It lacks an index, something I find quite vexing. I realize that it’s work putting an index together, because I've done that, but I find an index to be invaluable when returning to a book to search for a particular recipe or craft idea. Failing that, it is a gorgeous and inspiring book with ideas to carry you throughout the year, even during the darkest days of winter when we probably need it the most.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Gibbs Smith Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Death in le Jardin by Ian Moore, Reviewed

Prior to reading Death in le Jardin, the fourth in the Follett Valley Mystery series, I had not been acquainted with this series or author Ian Moore. It took m​e no longer than reading the first page to absolutely fall in love with the characters, the writing style, and the anticipation of what was to come.

 Insouciant, middle-aged Richard Ainsworth is living the sweet life in Saint-Sauver in the Follet Valley, a quiet French backwater, puttering around his posh B&B with sidekick gal pal, former bounty hunter, and possible assassin, Valérie d’Orçay and her pampered Chihuahua, Passepartout.

 When the housekeeper of their B&B is charged with murdering her brother-in-law, who was at one time her fiancé (gotta love the French) life gets complicated. Their investigation sends them to a rather bizarre garden town/commune filled with a variety of strange and dodgy people.

 In addition to being a wonderful and complex mystery, the story is very atmospheric. The descriptions were so vivid and detailed that I felt as if I were there right along with the characters. The characters themselves are rich, well developed, quirky, and strange, you name it, and you’ll find it in this book.

 At this point I might add that there is no need to have read the previous books in this series (although you will definitely want to), as this stands quite well on its own.

 I can’t remember the last time I had such a good time reading a book. It was a wonderful bonus that I was surprised by the conclusion of the mystery. Wonderful.

 It is scheduled for publication on June 6^th; you can preorder here.

 Many thanks to NetGalley, Farrago Publishing Co., and author Ian Moore for the advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Brie Careful What You Wish For, a Grilled Cheese Mystery, Reviewed

  

This is the first time that I have read anything by this author, having not heard of this culinary mystery series before. I have to be honest with you, what drew me to Brie Careful What You Wish For, aside from the rather charming cover (Yes, I do judge books by their covers.) was the fact that the main character in the book, Carly Hale, operated a grilled cheese restaurant, and recipes were promised at the end of the story. I am an avid fan of grilled cheese sandwiches of all kinds, like books that offer recipes, and am rarely let down. That is until this one, where only two were provided, neither of which, alas, really blew my skirt up, but I digress.

 One thing that I didn’t like about this book, besides the cutesy title, was the repeated mention of the pandemic. First of all, I think in the long run that’s going to date this book. Second, I think that is a time that is best left behind all of us, so mere mention raised my hackles just a bit. I’m also wondering how she manages to stay in business considering she gives away so much food, I know, it’s fiction, but that annoyed me because it seemed as though she gave away more food than she sold, and I found that unbelievable.

 All of that said, the book is nicely paced with largely likable characters in a vibrant setting. The mystery is a good one, and the culprit surprised me, something I always find pleasing. I found the restaurant setting to be a lot of fun. I enjoyed reading about the customers, the goings on in the kitchen, and all of those delicious sounding grilled cheese sandwiches. I would have liked the lesser characters to have been a bit more developed than they were, but that is easily overlooked.

 I would have appreciated (and this is not just limited to this book, but most books in general) a listing of characters at the beginning of the book to refer back to during the course of my reading.

 All in all, I think this is a good, solid, four stars, and I would recommend it.

 You can purchase a copy here.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Beyond the Page publishers for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Together at the Table: Entertaining at Home with the Creators of Juliska, Reviewed

 I have been a fan of Juliska for years. I treasure the pieces that I own designed by them, so I was thrilled when I learned that the creators of that brand, husband and wife founders, David and Capucine [DeWulf] Gooding, were coming out with a book, Together at the Table: Entertaining at Home with the Creators of Juliska.

Trust me when I tell you that it does not disappoint, quite the contrary, it is GLORIOUS!

Anyone who is a fan of fine dining, beautiful tablescapes, or simply reveres getting together with friends and family in a pleasant setting, is going to fall in love with this book.

 While initially it may appear to be a bit highbrow in the various offerings (not all of us have expensive China and cut glass stemware), that’s not the point; the point is to take those treasured items that you’ve been saving for “good,” and bring them out to enjoy every single day. There are hundreds of eye-catching and inspirational ideas here on how to use what you have, mix-and-match various styles and patterns, and indulge yourself in a wide range of colors… or not.

Their eye for design and color is impeccable. With each turn of the page I felt as if I were being transported into places of beauty. I also made mental note of various ideas, color combinations, layouts, etc., in order to incorporate these into what I do.

This book is a real treasure, and would be a thoughtful gift for people who enjoy setting lovely tables or simply dreaming of lovely tables. You can’t page through this book without coming away with the feeling that life is truly magical, and that you can help make it so.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

 Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Together at the Table: Entertaining at Home with the Creators of Juliska from Abrams Books as a participant in their Abrams Dinner Party Program for 2022-2023.

 

Southern Living’s 2022 Annual Recipes, Reviewed

It’s that time of the year again, time for Southern Living’s 2022 Annual Recipes cookbook. This cookbook featuring an entire year of recipes from Southern Living will appear oh so familiar to those of you who have gotten their volumes in the past. It releases on Tuesday, December 6^th!

One thing for sure about this cookbook is that it is filled with loads of mouthwatering recipes that you are going to love. I have yet to have a bad recipe from Southern Living. They may not all appeal to me, but those that do, and those that I’ve tried, have always come out perfectly, looked beautiful, and tasted delicious.

 This year‘s book is, again, filled with new recipes to tempt every pallet. As deputy food editor, Linda Cericola says, “It’s good to be gathering again;” Southern Living has been gathering now for 55 years, hard to believe.

Containing every single recipe that appeared in Southern Living magazine throughout the year of 2022, this book is, conveniently, divided by months, as are all their previous volumes. Personally, I like this kind of division. I think it’s fun to turn to a particular time of the year in order to find a recipe to prepare. Such recipes often rely upon seasonal produce as it becomes available throughout the year, as well as heavier dishes in winter months, and lighter dishes during the warmer months.    There were many things that drew my attention in this book, among them, Broccoli Pesto Pasta, Apple Spice Muffins with Oat Streusel, Deluxe Buttermilk Biscuits with Sage Brown Butter, Oven Baked Omelet with southwestern, French, and Denver variations (I liked the idea of having the possibility of serving an omelet to a crowd), Lemon Barbecue Chicken, as well as the entire dessert section, what can I tell you? I definitely plan to try French Onion Soup Casserole. As a lover of the soup, I am intrigued at the thought of turning that into a casserole. I’ll report. I was amused by the inclusion of a recipe for Shepherd’s Pie that contained beef. A shepherd herds sheep, not cattle; Cottage Pie has beef -- just one of my pet peeves.

  You are undoubtedly going to find a lot more recipes in this book than in most cookbooks because there are pages and pages of recipes containing no pictures. That is both good and bad at the same time. I have become very picky when it comes to cookbooks, and I, personally, want a picture of every recipe that’s included. That’s not the case here. There are loads of pictures, don’t get me wrong, but if you’re expecting every recipe offered to be pictured, you will be disappointed.

Fans of the magazine, of this particular annual issue, of great food, and fine Southern hospitality will really enjoy this book.I recommend it.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

 Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Southern Living’s 2022 Annual Recipes from Abrams Books as a participant in their Abrams Dinner Party Program for 2022-2023.