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Maple Syrup Mysteries #3
In the Blink of a Pie
USA Today bestselling author Catherine Bruns is back with the third installment in the "delightfully sweet" Maple Syrup Mysteries, transporting readers back to the cozy town of Sugar Ridge, Vermont, where things are bound to go from sweet, to sour.
Sometimes, there's no one you can crust...
It's Thanksgiving in Sugar Ridge, Vermont, and Leila Khoury, manager of Sappy Endings Farm, is ready to usher in the holiday season by hosting a pie-baking contest. The day is meticulously planned, from the judging panel to the maple lattes, and Leila can't wait for the entire town to enjoy some sweet treats.
But when a neighbor drops dead from sampling a poisoned pumpkin pie, it's not just Leila's perfect day that's in jeopardy—her livelihood is now at stake. And after yet another near-fatal incident, she realizes an even more terrifying the killer wasn't targeting her neighbor, but someone even closer to home!
Can Leila figure out who's behind the murder, before the dough hits the fan?
Includes delicious holiday pie recipes!
Sometimes, there's no one you can crust...
It's Thanksgiving in Sugar Ridge, Vermont, and Leila Khoury, manager of Sappy Endings Farm, is ready to usher in the holiday season by hosting a pie-baking contest. The day is meticulously planned, from the judging panel to the maple lattes, and Leila can't wait for the entire town to enjoy some sweet treats.
But when a neighbor drops dead from sampling a poisoned pumpkin pie, it's not just Leila's perfect day that's in jeopardy—her livelihood is now at stake. And after yet another near-fatal incident, she realizes an even more terrifying the killer wasn't targeting her neighbor, but someone even closer to home!
Can Leila figure out who's behind the murder, before the dough hits the fan?
Includes delicious holiday pie recipes!
320 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published October 22, 2024
24 people are currently reading
364 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Bruns
58books882followersCatherine is the USA Today bestselling author of the Cookies & Chance mysteries. She lives in Upstate New York with her very patient husband, three sons and several spoiled pets. She holds a dual B.A. in English and Performing Arts and is a former newspaper reporter and press release writer. Catherine also writes the Italian Chef, Maple Syrup, and Cindy York mysteries. Her book, For Sale by Killer, won the Daphne du Maurier award for Mainstream Mystery/Suspense.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
October 16, 2024
It is fall and events are gearing up at the Sappy Endings Farm with a pie contest. Entries must contain maple syrup from the farm to be judged. It was advertised that Leila Khoury, manager of the family farm, would be the judge but with so many entries, her mom Selma and boyfriend Noah are also judging. All is going well until Selma's pushy neighbor insists on judging too and dies after eating a slice of pumpkin pie. It is soon determined that Leilas was the target of the poisoned pie when her life is threatened again. I had suspicions early on, but the author threw out some red herrings that cast some doubt on my thoughts. This is a great mystery to unravel with plenty of action, suspense, and twists. Changes are on the way for Leila and Noah, his daughter Emma, and Selma. This is a fun series, and I look forward to the next book.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.
October 14, 2024
This is the third book in the Maple Syrup Mystery series. I have not read the previous two books. is a new author to me but I see she has written a very popular series called Cookies and Chance which I will have to try.
In I met Leila Khoury who manages Sappy Endings Farm where they produce maple syrup. During a pie baking contest someone dies from poisoning and it becomes apparent that Leila was the intended victim. The search is on to discover the murderer before they succeed in killing her.
I did suspect the identity of the killer fairly early on, but this did not spoil the book for me at all. In fact it made me feel smart when I found I was correct! There were plenty of nice characters to enjoy like Leila's boyfriend, Noah, and his cute daughter. I enjoyed the read very much. Four stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book
In I met Leila Khoury who manages Sappy Endings Farm where they produce maple syrup. During a pie baking contest someone dies from poisoning and it becomes apparent that Leila was the intended victim. The search is on to discover the murderer before they succeed in killing her.
I did suspect the identity of the killer fairly early on, but this did not spoil the book for me at all. In fact it made me feel smart when I found I was correct! There were plenty of nice characters to enjoy like Leila's boyfriend, Noah, and his cute daughter. I enjoyed the read very much. Four stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book
October 14, 2024
4.5�s
Leila Khoury managed Sappy Endings Farm in Sugar Ridge, Vermont, after the unexpected death of her beloved father some months earlier. Her mother Selma was the cook, with everything she produced, delicious! When Leila decided to host a pie making contest at the farm for Thanksgiving, they went all out. There were many entries and Leila & Selma would be the judges. But when Leila became tied up and a friend of Selma's stepped in to help, her first taste of the pumpkin pie saw her convulsing before she died, in front of the horrified crowd. Uncle Pete, Selma's brother and the small town's police officer, was soon on the scene and his investigation turned into a race against time as no one would go near Sappy Endings for fear of being poisoned themselves...
Would the police and Leila, along with her friend Heather, and almost fiance Noah, find who poisoned the pie before someone else died?
is the 3rd in the Maple Syrup Mysteries series by and I loved it. And while I haven't read books #1 and #2, this one can easily standalone. Well fleshed out characters, lots of fun and entertainment, and although I worked out the culprit very early in the piece, it was fun seeing how it all unfolded. I'll be looking for more by this author. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Poisoned Pen Press for my digital ARC to read and review.
Leila Khoury managed Sappy Endings Farm in Sugar Ridge, Vermont, after the unexpected death of her beloved father some months earlier. Her mother Selma was the cook, with everything she produced, delicious! When Leila decided to host a pie making contest at the farm for Thanksgiving, they went all out. There were many entries and Leila & Selma would be the judges. But when Leila became tied up and a friend of Selma's stepped in to help, her first taste of the pumpkin pie saw her convulsing before she died, in front of the horrified crowd. Uncle Pete, Selma's brother and the small town's police officer, was soon on the scene and his investigation turned into a race against time as no one would go near Sappy Endings for fear of being poisoned themselves...
Would the police and Leila, along with her friend Heather, and almost fiance Noah, find who poisoned the pie before someone else died?
is the 3rd in the Maple Syrup Mysteries series by and I loved it. And while I haven't read books #1 and #2, this one can easily standalone. Well fleshed out characters, lots of fun and entertainment, and although I worked out the culprit very early in the piece, it was fun seeing how it all unfolded. I'll be looking for more by this author. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Poisoned Pen Press for my digital ARC to read and review.
November 5, 2024
This mystery is the cozy type with a northeastern small-town vibe and quirky characters including a cat. I figured out who done it fairly early on but that didn't take away from the enjoyment of the story. Pie recipes are included at the back of the book.
September 1, 2024
I received a free copy of, In the Blink of a Pie, by Catherine Bruns, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is the third book in The Maple Syrup Mystery series. Leila is a manager of a farm in Vermont, its Thanksgiving, a wonderful holiday, and Leila is having a pie eating contest. When someone is poisoned by a pie, all is not well. This was a bewitching mystery.
October 13, 2024
Unfortunately this was too predictable for me to enjoy. :/
Right away I knew who the killer was (and was thinking I was wrong, because that’s too easy, surely?) and it made me just want to finish the book & be done with it.
That is saying a lot, because I am not the “my theory is� kinda gal. I don’t really think about who’s done it when I read, I just read and enjoy. The fact that without even trying I knew where it was heading is disappointing.
I mean, if we’re talking about a MYSTERY book, it should be a bit more mysterious than that?!
Plus, the ending felt really sloppy and rushed and if I’m being honest most of it was ridiculous, especially the big speeches and “revelations�, the dialogues were a hard read. :/
I knew this was an easy/fun read so I wasn’t expecting some great literature masterpiece, I just didn’t expect it to be so underwhelming either.
That being said, the first 30% of the book was really enjoyable and very cozy, fall vibes, cute set up! If that had continued, I would have really like this.
But, this is a pretty well received series, and most ratings are high, so maybe it’s me? Maybe I just picked the wrong book.
In any case, thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for gifting me this book in exchange for an honest review. I really wish it could have been a great one!
Right away I knew who the killer was (and was thinking I was wrong, because that’s too easy, surely?) and it made me just want to finish the book & be done with it.
That is saying a lot, because I am not the “my theory is� kinda gal. I don’t really think about who’s done it when I read, I just read and enjoy. The fact that without even trying I knew where it was heading is disappointing.
I mean, if we’re talking about a MYSTERY book, it should be a bit more mysterious than that?!
Plus, the ending felt really sloppy and rushed and if I’m being honest most of it was ridiculous, especially the big speeches and “revelations�, the dialogues were a hard read. :/
I knew this was an easy/fun read so I wasn’t expecting some great literature masterpiece, I just didn’t expect it to be so underwhelming either.
That being said, the first 30% of the book was really enjoyable and very cozy, fall vibes, cute set up! If that had continued, I would have really like this.
But, this is a pretty well received series, and most ratings are high, so maybe it’s me? Maybe I just picked the wrong book.
In any case, thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for gifting me this book in exchange for an honest review. I really wish it could have been a great one!
November 2, 2024
Dollycas's Thoughts
Leila Khoury, manager of Sappy Endings Maple Syrup Farm in Sugar Ridge, Vermont has much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. Her relationship with Noah is moving along nicely and her relationship with his daughter Emma continues to grow. The family farm is doing well but she is looking for ways to increase business and bring more visitors to the farm. This year the Sappy Endings Farm is kicking off the holiday season with a pie-baking contest. While there was a little confusion about where to drop off the pies, the judges were ready and there were some sweet samples on hand for the entrants and all the people attending to enjoy.
Then Leila was called away from the event and one very pushy neighbor took it upon herself to step in to do a little judging. It was a terrible decision because the pie she sampled was laced with poison. Margaret Middleton had taken her last bite of pie and now the Sappy Endings Farm could go out of business. Leila can't let that happen. With the farm on the line, Leila sets out to find the killer. She soon comprehends that Margaret wasn't the intended victim. The killer is after her.
______
I really enjoy the maple syrup theme for this cozy series. With each book, I learn more about tapping the trees, the syrup-making process, and the sweet treats that can be made with it including maple sugar.
Ms. Bruns has created an excellent core cast of characters including Leila, her mother, her best friend Heather, Noah, and his daughter Emma. Her mother has a hard time keeping an assistant to bake and work with at the cafe. In this story, Leila hires a new one who hits it off right away with her mom, taking a little pressure off Leila. The relationship Leila has with her mother continues to evolve. Noah and Leila are preparing to take a big step after the holidays but his daughter Emma has an unexpected reaction. All these relationships make these characters authentic and true to life. I had some issues with Leila a few times throughout this series, but I truly have been invested in all the character's lives from the beginning and am happy with how they continue to grow.
The author has penned a well-plotted and well-written mystery with many twists and turns that kept the pages turning. The actual guilty party was on my suspect list but not at the top. The author gave all the right clues to keep her moving up, but I never imagined it would play out in such a suspenseful showdown or how the cavalry would be called in. I found myself on the edge of my seat reading those pages. I loved that Detective Barnes actually gave credit to Leila for finding Margaret's killer. That doesn't happen often.
After all the details of the mystery were revealed and wrapped up, the characters had a heartwarming Thanksgiving dinner and a delightful surprise. It generated a great big "Aw"! Be sure to check out the recipes for some pies you may want to try this holiday season. They all have tempted my tastebuds.
In the Blink of a Pie is an extraordinary and entertaining read with a true focus on family. The characters are engaging, the mystery unique, and the setting so perfect for this time of year. I am eager for this series to continue. I can't wait for my next visit to Sugar Ridge, Vermont, and the Sappy Endings Farm. I do wish the books came with some maple candies to sample. :-)
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Leila Khoury, manager of Sappy Endings Maple Syrup Farm in Sugar Ridge, Vermont has much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. Her relationship with Noah is moving along nicely and her relationship with his daughter Emma continues to grow. The family farm is doing well but she is looking for ways to increase business and bring more visitors to the farm. This year the Sappy Endings Farm is kicking off the holiday season with a pie-baking contest. While there was a little confusion about where to drop off the pies, the judges were ready and there were some sweet samples on hand for the entrants and all the people attending to enjoy.
Then Leila was called away from the event and one very pushy neighbor took it upon herself to step in to do a little judging. It was a terrible decision because the pie she sampled was laced with poison. Margaret Middleton had taken her last bite of pie and now the Sappy Endings Farm could go out of business. Leila can't let that happen. With the farm on the line, Leila sets out to find the killer. She soon comprehends that Margaret wasn't the intended victim. The killer is after her.
______
I really enjoy the maple syrup theme for this cozy series. With each book, I learn more about tapping the trees, the syrup-making process, and the sweet treats that can be made with it including maple sugar.
Ms. Bruns has created an excellent core cast of characters including Leila, her mother, her best friend Heather, Noah, and his daughter Emma. Her mother has a hard time keeping an assistant to bake and work with at the cafe. In this story, Leila hires a new one who hits it off right away with her mom, taking a little pressure off Leila. The relationship Leila has with her mother continues to evolve. Noah and Leila are preparing to take a big step after the holidays but his daughter Emma has an unexpected reaction. All these relationships make these characters authentic and true to life. I had some issues with Leila a few times throughout this series, but I truly have been invested in all the character's lives from the beginning and am happy with how they continue to grow.
The author has penned a well-plotted and well-written mystery with many twists and turns that kept the pages turning. The actual guilty party was on my suspect list but not at the top. The author gave all the right clues to keep her moving up, but I never imagined it would play out in such a suspenseful showdown or how the cavalry would be called in. I found myself on the edge of my seat reading those pages. I loved that Detective Barnes actually gave credit to Leila for finding Margaret's killer. That doesn't happen often.
After all the details of the mystery were revealed and wrapped up, the characters had a heartwarming Thanksgiving dinner and a delightful surprise. It generated a great big "Aw"! Be sure to check out the recipes for some pies you may want to try this holiday season. They all have tempted my tastebuds.
In the Blink of a Pie is an extraordinary and entertaining read with a true focus on family. The characters are engaging, the mystery unique, and the setting so perfect for this time of year. I am eager for this series to continue. I can't wait for my next visit to Sugar Ridge, Vermont, and the Sappy Endings Farm. I do wish the books came with some maple candies to sample. :-)
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
November 7, 2024
I absolutely loved this cozy mystery about Leila and a murder that happens at her family business, Sappy Endings Farm. The main character is great and I also liked all the supporting ones. I now must read the series from the beginning!
August 12, 2024
In the Blink of a Pie is a fantastic addition to this series.
I love everything about the series, but this book really is well done.
Leila Khoury is ready for the holidays, and what screams Fall better than a pie baking contest?
When a resident helps herself to try a piece of pumpkin pie, she finds herself gasping for breath, and Leila knows this won't end well.
Leila fights hard to keep the business going, but unfortunately things with her boyfriend Noah are a bit awkward and she's concerned.
The dynamics of this story are well played out and I enjoyed every page.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
I love everything about the series, but this book really is well done.
Leila Khoury is ready for the holidays, and what screams Fall better than a pie baking contest?
When a resident helps herself to try a piece of pumpkin pie, she finds herself gasping for breath, and Leila knows this won't end well.
Leila fights hard to keep the business going, but unfortunately things with her boyfriend Noah are a bit awkward and she's concerned.
The dynamics of this story are well played out and I enjoyed every page.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
November 28, 2024
LOVED the ending! Perfect. I enjoyed the story, but did figure out the killer pretty early on. I found the strong friendship between Leila and Detective Barnes refreshing! In a lot of cozy mysteries the detective/chief and the protagonist are at each other's throats. I like that this series features a mutual respect between both. Very much looking forward to book 4!
October 22, 2024
To kick off the holiday season, Sappy Endings is hosting a pie-baking competition, hoping to generate more interest from the public in their farm’s various maple products. But when a crotchety neighbor drops dead after sampling a pie she had no business tasting, the attention they get is anything but good. Leila, Noah and the rest are determined to learn the reason for the incident and who the culprit is.
This is the third book in this series, and I enjoyed it as much as the first two. Leila, Jonas, Simon and the rest are starting to feel like old friends, and I would love to visit Sappy Endings, especially in the fall. I like the way they all work together, and the way the relationship between Leila, Noah and Emma (his daughter) has developed, and that they’re making the maple farm into a thriving business.
There were some really surprising twists in this story, and a few red herrings thrown in for good measure. Once I got past the first major twist, I began to suspect one character more than the others, and even thought I had the motive worked out, and for a change, I was right!
I look forward to my next visit to Vermont so I can spend more time with Leila, Noah, Emma and the rest.
Thank you to Edelweiss and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This is the third book in this series, and I enjoyed it as much as the first two. Leila, Jonas, Simon and the rest are starting to feel like old friends, and I would love to visit Sappy Endings, especially in the fall. I like the way they all work together, and the way the relationship between Leila, Noah and Emma (his daughter) has developed, and that they’re making the maple farm into a thriving business.
There were some really surprising twists in this story, and a few red herrings thrown in for good measure. Once I got past the first major twist, I began to suspect one character more than the others, and even thought I had the motive worked out, and for a change, I was right!
I look forward to my next visit to Vermont so I can spend more time with Leila, Noah, Emma and the rest.
Thank you to Edelweiss and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 19, 2024
"In the Blink of a Pie (Maple Syrup Mysteries #3)" by Catherine Bruns starts with a fall pie contest and leading up to Thanksgiving. While at the contest, Leila's mom's sort of friend, ends up eating a poisoned pie intended for Leila. Then a series of events really start making everyone think Leila was the intended victim.
While all this is going on Leila and Noah are trying to figure out how to get his daughter to accept Leila moving in with them. She's suddenly not liking the idea of having Leila around. There's also a new employee at the farm that's getting a little too cozy towards Leila's mom and Noah.
While all this is going on Leila and Noah are trying to figure out how to get his daughter to accept Leila moving in with them. She's suddenly not liking the idea of having Leila around. There's also a new employee at the farm that's getting a little too cozy towards Leila's mom and Noah.
October 16, 2024
This is the third book in the Maple syrup mysteries. Leila manages her family's maple syrup farm and cafe. It's Thanksgiving and the farm is holding a pie contest at the farm. When one of the onlookers takes a bite of a pie meant for the contest and collapses, it becomes a question of who the intended target was.
I really enjoyed this book. It had the perfect fall setting and a great cast of characters. I was shocked by the ending. I can't wait to read more.
I really enjoyed this book. It had the perfect fall setting and a great cast of characters. I was shocked by the ending. I can't wait to read more.
October 9, 2024
This was my very first Catherine Bruns book and I can happily say that it will not be my last. I thought the idea of a mystery surrounding a maple syrup farm to be very intriguing. The story moves pretty quickly which I like and soon we were off to the races when it came to the beginning of the mystery.
Even though this was the latest book, I had an easy time getting to know all of the characters and how they fit into the world of maple syrup. I really enjoyed the family dynamic of how everything and everyone worked together. You don't see that as often anymore these days. It brought back a semblance of a hope still in humanity for me. That not everything about the old ways was completely gone.
I thought Leila was a really great character. Though she's stubborn as a mule, determined, and driven, she's also completely sweet, charming, and thoughtful as well. I really liked her a whole lot. The same with her best friend, boyfriend, and her mom. All are great well fleshed out likable characters.
I also thought that Noah and Leila's chemistry was off the charts. You can so clearly see how into each other they are and how well they fit together. And I loved little Emma. What a doll. I thought how each character's past traumas were all handled well and it neither made them look weak or gave them excuses to behave badly. I really liked that as well. Sometimes it is so easy to use the past to choose to be a nasty person because of it. But they all used it as motivation to be better human beings. Incredible.
As far as the mystery went, well that one really kept my head spinning. I had no idea who it was up until the end. Crazy how everything came back together full circle. I love when that happens. An absolutely enjoyable book. I will be reading the others previous in the series. I happily recommend this book 100%.
Thanks to Net Galley, the publishers, and to Catherine Bruns for the ability to read and review this book. All opinions are mine and are completely honest.
Even though this was the latest book, I had an easy time getting to know all of the characters and how they fit into the world of maple syrup. I really enjoyed the family dynamic of how everything and everyone worked together. You don't see that as often anymore these days. It brought back a semblance of a hope still in humanity for me. That not everything about the old ways was completely gone.
I thought Leila was a really great character. Though she's stubborn as a mule, determined, and driven, she's also completely sweet, charming, and thoughtful as well. I really liked her a whole lot. The same with her best friend, boyfriend, and her mom. All are great well fleshed out likable characters.
I also thought that Noah and Leila's chemistry was off the charts. You can so clearly see how into each other they are and how well they fit together. And I loved little Emma. What a doll. I thought how each character's past traumas were all handled well and it neither made them look weak or gave them excuses to behave badly. I really liked that as well. Sometimes it is so easy to use the past to choose to be a nasty person because of it. But they all used it as motivation to be better human beings. Incredible.
As far as the mystery went, well that one really kept my head spinning. I had no idea who it was up until the end. Crazy how everything came back together full circle. I love when that happens. An absolutely enjoyable book. I will be reading the others previous in the series. I happily recommend this book 100%.
Thanks to Net Galley, the publishers, and to Catherine Bruns for the ability to read and review this book. All opinions are mine and are completely honest.
December 31, 2024
A pie baking contest is a great way to open things up. The sense of danger throughout this book is strong. There is never a shortage of action.
The writing is just as good as the first two books. I love seeing some characters develop. I would like to learn more about Heather's husband. Noah and Leila's relationship progresses nicely but at the same time I feel I've missed out on some of it.
I liked the mystery. I did think the killer and most of the motive was pretty obvious though. Still it was fun watching it play out.
The writing is just as good as the first two books. I love seeing some characters develop. I would like to learn more about Heather's husband. Noah and Leila's relationship progresses nicely but at the same time I feel I've missed out on some of it.
I liked the mystery. I did think the killer and most of the motive was pretty obvious though. Still it was fun watching it play out.
December 2, 2024
Love the maple syrup series! This is easily one of my favorite cozies! While the killer was pretty predictable, the author did a good job of keeping you guessing and coming up with scenarios until the end. Highly recommend this series if you love cozy mysteries!
November 29, 2024
I didn't get a single 5 star this month :(
December 5, 2024
Another great book in the series.
September 24, 2024
In the Blink of a Pie is the third installment in the Maple Syrup Mystery series by Catherine Bruns, and it’s every bit as cozy and delightful as its predecessors. Set against the charming backdrop of Thanksgiving in Sugar Ridge, Vermont, the book once again follows Leila Khoury, the determined manager of Sappy Endings Farm, as she gets swept up in a murder mystery that threatens her livelihood—and perhaps her life.
The story kicks off with a festive pie-baking contest that takes a dark turn when a neighbor dies after eating a poisoned pumpkin pie. What initially seems like a tragic accident quickly spirals into something more sinister when it becomes clear that the intended target might not have been the unfortunate neighbor at all. This adds a thrilling, nail-biting element to the cozy mystery, as the stakes rise dramatically and Leila herself seems to be in the crosshairs of a killer.
One of the highlights of the book is the mystery itself—it’s well-crafted and engaging. From the start, there are clues and red herrings that will have readers speculating about the killer's identity. I had my suspicions, but the story keeps you guessing until the very end, which makes for a satisfying conclusion.
The development of Leila's personal life adds another layer of charm to the series. In many cozy mysteries, the romantic subplots tend to drag on, but Bruns does a fantastic job of moving Leila's relationship with her boyfriend, Noah, forward. Their bond feels natural and heartwarming, offering a nice balance to the suspenseful murder investigation.
What truly sets In the Blink of a Pie apart is its cozy atmosphere. Sugar Ridge is the perfect small-town setting, with its picturesque scenery and warm, tight-knit community. The descriptions of pies and Thanksgiving festivities add to the heartwarming tone of the book, making it a perfect read for the holiday season.
And let’s not forget the covers! The Maple Syrup Mystery series boasts some of the most beautiful and inviting covers in the cozy mystery genre, perfectly capturing the warmth and charm of the stories within.
Overall, In the Blink of a Pie is a delightful, cozy mystery with just the right mix of intrigue, suspense, and heart. Fans of the series and newcomers alike will find plenty to enjoy. Highly recommended for anyone in the mood for a fun, holiday-themed mystery!
4.5 stars
Thank you, NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the ARC in exchange for my honest review
The story kicks off with a festive pie-baking contest that takes a dark turn when a neighbor dies after eating a poisoned pumpkin pie. What initially seems like a tragic accident quickly spirals into something more sinister when it becomes clear that the intended target might not have been the unfortunate neighbor at all. This adds a thrilling, nail-biting element to the cozy mystery, as the stakes rise dramatically and Leila herself seems to be in the crosshairs of a killer.
One of the highlights of the book is the mystery itself—it’s well-crafted and engaging. From the start, there are clues and red herrings that will have readers speculating about the killer's identity. I had my suspicions, but the story keeps you guessing until the very end, which makes for a satisfying conclusion.
The development of Leila's personal life adds another layer of charm to the series. In many cozy mysteries, the romantic subplots tend to drag on, but Bruns does a fantastic job of moving Leila's relationship with her boyfriend, Noah, forward. Their bond feels natural and heartwarming, offering a nice balance to the suspenseful murder investigation.
What truly sets In the Blink of a Pie apart is its cozy atmosphere. Sugar Ridge is the perfect small-town setting, with its picturesque scenery and warm, tight-knit community. The descriptions of pies and Thanksgiving festivities add to the heartwarming tone of the book, making it a perfect read for the holiday season.
And let’s not forget the covers! The Maple Syrup Mystery series boasts some of the most beautiful and inviting covers in the cozy mystery genre, perfectly capturing the warmth and charm of the stories within.
Overall, In the Blink of a Pie is a delightful, cozy mystery with just the right mix of intrigue, suspense, and heart. Fans of the series and newcomers alike will find plenty to enjoy. Highly recommended for anyone in the mood for a fun, holiday-themed mystery!
4.5 stars
Thank you, NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the ARC in exchange for my honest review
December 6, 2024
Apparently this is the 3rd in a series, but it was fine to read as a standalone. There were references to the other mysteries, but they didn’t detract from understanding this one. I really liked the main character and how she handled her relationships with everyone? Even when they weren’t working. Great, easy, fun cozy mystery.
December 5, 2024
I am really enjoying this series. Can't wait for the next book. Love the characters and the twists on who done it. Great cozy mystery.
March 21, 2025
This series is becoming a favorite of mine. I love the characters and have enjoyed seeing them grow throughout the series so far. This book in the series is set around Thanksgiving and a pie eating contest. The New England fall setting makes you feel warm and cozy in this book. I will say the killer was obvious to me from very early on and that did bring down my enjoyment just a little. I still really liked the book and hope there will be more in this series. 3.5 stars.
November 17, 2024
Welcome to Vermont’s own Sappy Endings maple syrup farm, where the syrup is sweet and the pastries are perfect. Well, at least the tasty treats that Leila’s talented cook of a mom, Selma, bakes at the Sappy Hour Café. This is the 3rd book in the Maple Syrup Mystery series and it has been perfectly named. In the blink of a Pie/eye the well-earned reputation of the Sappy Endings farm goes from great to deadly because of a killer pie baking contest. Leila, manager of her family’s farm was just trying to do a good deed and generate some revenue for the local food bank. No one could have could have foreseen the community backlash due to an unexpected death that turns out to be murder. It does not help that the local paper where her brother Simon is the lead journalist, has printed an article sensationalizing the unfortunate incident. This isn’t Simon’s doing but he cannot stop the rumor mill in this small cozy town. If only gossip was as slow as the molasses in a Shoofly pie. Did they not get the email that this was really an attempt on Leila’s life and not someone out to get Margaret Middleton. Although, I could see how one could think that Margaret, with her acerbic tongue, could incite negative thoughts or even actions, in others. Someone is out to get Leila.
This stand-alone story does a good job of keeping the reader in the loop by giving plenty of backstory to explain how this is not Leila’s first time dealing with a murder. Leila takes on the management of the farm while at the same time getting to know and coming to love farm worker Noah and his daughter Emma. Leila and her best friend Heather start looking for clues in a variety of places. Suspects include a past high school student who was turned in for cheating. Also on the list, is Leila’s former college roommate who was in trouble for stealing money from Leila to buy drugs. Margaret’s own son Eric, the big city New York attorney is threatening to sue the farm for his mother’s death. Eric may still be upset with Leila for not agreeing to date him in the past. Last but not least is the mysterious pie baker named Sandy Sweets, who could in fact be one of the aforementioned suspects.
As you can see there are multiple threads for Leila to pull while trying to keep from safe. The story is engaging as well as entertaining. The clues are well placed as are the red herrings. In addition to a happy ending the book also delivers on some sweet and satisfying pie recipes. There are six recipes to choose from and I selected the Pumpkin Spice Maple Pie and can attest that is perfect for pairing with this Thanksgiving themed cozy.
This stand-alone story does a good job of keeping the reader in the loop by giving plenty of backstory to explain how this is not Leila’s first time dealing with a murder. Leila takes on the management of the farm while at the same time getting to know and coming to love farm worker Noah and his daughter Emma. Leila and her best friend Heather start looking for clues in a variety of places. Suspects include a past high school student who was turned in for cheating. Also on the list, is Leila’s former college roommate who was in trouble for stealing money from Leila to buy drugs. Margaret’s own son Eric, the big city New York attorney is threatening to sue the farm for his mother’s death. Eric may still be upset with Leila for not agreeing to date him in the past. Last but not least is the mysterious pie baker named Sandy Sweets, who could in fact be one of the aforementioned suspects.
As you can see there are multiple threads for Leila to pull while trying to keep from safe. The story is engaging as well as entertaining. The clues are well placed as are the red herrings. In addition to a happy ending the book also delivers on some sweet and satisfying pie recipes. There are six recipes to choose from and I selected the Pumpkin Spice Maple Pie and can attest that is perfect for pairing with this Thanksgiving themed cozy.
December 18, 2024
I am celebrating National Maple Syrup Day by sharing with you my review of In the Blink of a Pie (Maple Syrup Mystery 3), by Catherine Bruns.
Thanksgiving is fast approaching in Sugar Ridge, Vermont. Leila Khoury, manager of Sappy Endings Farm, is hosting a pie-baking contest. Unfortunately, after sampling one of the pies, a neighbor drops dead. In an effort to bring the killer to justice and save her farm, Leila is determined to get to the bottom of this mystery even if it means risking her own life.
I requested this ARC on NetGalley a while ago. I didn't think I would be approved because a long time had passed. To my delight, I was approved! I hadn't even begun the series yet, but I knew I wanted to read it. So I read the first one (A Doomful of Sugar, which I enjoyed), then skipped the second one (for now) and finally read In the Blink of a Pie. I'm happy to say, I didn't feel lost at all. Clearly, some things had progressed in the second book, but the author does a good job bringing the reader up to speed in a concise way.
I really enjoyed my visit to Sugar Ridge, just as I did the first time. All of the main characters are delightful, including Toast, the cat. Some of my favorite scenes are when everyone is sharing meals together. It sets a tone of warmth and love. The food descriptions are also delicious. There are some Lebanese dishes that I made notes of and I will surely be researching them.
I wasn't completely sold on how Leila's and Noah's life-changing decision was handled (no spoilers, so I won't say exactly what that decision was), but I felt more at ease when even Noah recognized it might not have been dealt with in the best way. I'm curious to see how next steps will unfold in future installments of the series.
The mystery was fun, especially with all the talk about pies. Although I identified the whodunnit very early in the book, along with the motive, I still enjoyed seeing how Leila and the authorities would finally solve it. I thought the answer was clear, but sometimes when you're in the situation it's difficult to see. So I understand why Leila may not have seen it sooner.
I love how the title was woven into the story. It certainly fits with the mystery. If you're a fan of culinary cozies, you will be happy to find six pie recipes at the end of this installment. I was hoping for more savory recipes, but the theme of this book is all about pie, so the plethora of pie recipes certainly makes sense.
My next step in this series is to go back and read Syrup to No Good, which is set in the spring. Although I know how everything plays out in this third installment, I'm curious to see how it all came together in the second book. After, that, I hope there will be more in the series. It definitely fits the bill for a cozy and I'm here for it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thanksgiving is fast approaching in Sugar Ridge, Vermont. Leila Khoury, manager of Sappy Endings Farm, is hosting a pie-baking contest. Unfortunately, after sampling one of the pies, a neighbor drops dead. In an effort to bring the killer to justice and save her farm, Leila is determined to get to the bottom of this mystery even if it means risking her own life.
I requested this ARC on NetGalley a while ago. I didn't think I would be approved because a long time had passed. To my delight, I was approved! I hadn't even begun the series yet, but I knew I wanted to read it. So I read the first one (A Doomful of Sugar, which I enjoyed), then skipped the second one (for now) and finally read In the Blink of a Pie. I'm happy to say, I didn't feel lost at all. Clearly, some things had progressed in the second book, but the author does a good job bringing the reader up to speed in a concise way.
I really enjoyed my visit to Sugar Ridge, just as I did the first time. All of the main characters are delightful, including Toast, the cat. Some of my favorite scenes are when everyone is sharing meals together. It sets a tone of warmth and love. The food descriptions are also delicious. There are some Lebanese dishes that I made notes of and I will surely be researching them.
I wasn't completely sold on how Leila's and Noah's life-changing decision was handled (no spoilers, so I won't say exactly what that decision was), but I felt more at ease when even Noah recognized it might not have been dealt with in the best way. I'm curious to see how next steps will unfold in future installments of the series.
The mystery was fun, especially with all the talk about pies. Although I identified the whodunnit very early in the book, along with the motive, I still enjoyed seeing how Leila and the authorities would finally solve it. I thought the answer was clear, but sometimes when you're in the situation it's difficult to see. So I understand why Leila may not have seen it sooner.
I love how the title was woven into the story. It certainly fits with the mystery. If you're a fan of culinary cozies, you will be happy to find six pie recipes at the end of this installment. I was hoping for more savory recipes, but the theme of this book is all about pie, so the plethora of pie recipes certainly makes sense.
My next step in this series is to go back and read Syrup to No Good, which is set in the spring. Although I know how everything plays out in this third installment, I'm curious to see how it all came together in the second book. After, that, I hope there will be more in the series. It definitely fits the bill for a cozy and I'm here for it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2024
IN THE BLINK OF A PIE is the third book in the Maple Syrup Mysteries by Catherine Bruns. I’ve enjoyed the first two books in this series, but this is my favorite! Protagonist Leila Khoury, manager of her family’s maple syrup Sappy Endings Farm, has found her stride and self-confidence. She’s thinking of new ways to bring in new business to the farm and hosting a pie baking contest before Thanksgiving is just the yummy boost they need. Ms. Bruns has crafted an inviting setting with the maple syrup farm, with tidbits of the syrup production to give it authenticity. Her core characters are appealing and well-developed, and I love the direction Leila and her love interest, Noah, are heading in. It adds a heartwarming touch to the overall story. There’s also an underlying emotional depth on mother-daughter relationships as well as Noah’s young daughter’s response of Leila being in her life, which made me invested in the outcome. Family is definitely a strong theme throughout the book!
With the pie baking contest bringing visitors galore to the farm, the last thing Leila needs is for one of her neighbors to cause a scene and insert herself as one of the judges. Except the neighbor got more than she bargained for when she sampled the pumpkin pie…she ingested poison and couldn’t be saved. Not only does the murder cause a disruption to the festivities, but it doesn’t take long for people to avoid Sappy Endings at all costs. With the family business on the line, Lelia takes it upon herself to investigate and find the truth, and soon discovers the victim might not have been the intended victim. Ms. Bruns writes a tightly plotted tale with twists and turns that keeps the reader engaged. There are suspects galore and it will take a sharp reader to catch all the clues and put them together for the solution. The heart pounding reveal brings all the threads of the story together in one highly satisfying conclusion!
Be sure to read through to the end of the book for several delicious pie recipes…they all sound utterly decadent!
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
With the pie baking contest bringing visitors galore to the farm, the last thing Leila needs is for one of her neighbors to cause a scene and insert herself as one of the judges. Except the neighbor got more than she bargained for when she sampled the pumpkin pie…she ingested poison and couldn’t be saved. Not only does the murder cause a disruption to the festivities, but it doesn’t take long for people to avoid Sappy Endings at all costs. With the family business on the line, Lelia takes it upon herself to investigate and find the truth, and soon discovers the victim might not have been the intended victim. Ms. Bruns writes a tightly plotted tale with twists and turns that keeps the reader engaged. There are suspects galore and it will take a sharp reader to catch all the clues and put them together for the solution. The heart pounding reveal brings all the threads of the story together in one highly satisfying conclusion!
Be sure to read through to the end of the book for several delicious pie recipes…they all sound utterly decadent!
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 22, 2024
In The Blink of A Pie by Catherine Bruns takes us back to Sugar Ridge, Vermont and to the maple farm, Sappy Endings, which Leila had inherited from her father. She was doing everything she could to make it profitable and was assisted in that effort by her mother, Selma, and her boyfriend, Noah, and his daughter, Emma. Today was the pie contest, a last minute effort which was going well, with pies still coming in. She would make some changes next year but she was happy with what was happening. At the same time she ran down to the cafe to interview a new employee to work with her mom, so she could have some time off now and then. Just as she got back she saw that her mom’s nosy neighbor, Margaret Middleton, had pushed herself into the pie judging and was sampling her first pie. Leila ran to stop that and Emma accidentally knocked the pie onto the ground. As it turned out, that was a good thing, because just moments later Margaret was lying on the ground, writhing in her death throes. She had been poisoned. It was that pumpkin pie that had carried the poison.
Business at the farm came to a stop. No customers were willing to take a chance. The farm was tainted. Plus, Margaret’s son was threatening to sue. Leila was courageous and strong in the face of adversity, but even now she was doubting herself. She had to find out what was going on and already had a couple of suspects in mind. No one wanted her to investigate; it was too dangerous. But, she couldn’t be stopped, even when another attempt was made to kill her and it became obvious that she had been the target all along. Leila was smart, but it took her a while to figure it out and boy, was it a surprise. What a clever novel: setting is different, characters are fabulous, and the mystery is a good one. Who would have thought? Great read. Good series.
I was invited to read In the Blink of A Pie by Poisoned Pen Press. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #PoisonedPenPress #CatherineBruns #InTheBlinkOfAPie
Business at the farm came to a stop. No customers were willing to take a chance. The farm was tainted. Plus, Margaret’s son was threatening to sue. Leila was courageous and strong in the face of adversity, but even now she was doubting herself. She had to find out what was going on and already had a couple of suspects in mind. No one wanted her to investigate; it was too dangerous. But, she couldn’t be stopped, even when another attempt was made to kill her and it became obvious that she had been the target all along. Leila was smart, but it took her a while to figure it out and boy, was it a surprise. What a clever novel: setting is different, characters are fabulous, and the mystery is a good one. Who would have thought? Great read. Good series.
I was invited to read In the Blink of A Pie by Poisoned Pen Press. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #PoisonedPenPress #CatherineBruns #InTheBlinkOfAPie
October 26, 2024
In the Blink of a Pie by Catherine Bruns is the third book in her Maple Syrup Mystery series and I hope you are a fan .... if not, you will become one after you read what I have to say .... I hope.
In In the Blink of a Pie Sappy Endings is gearing up for one of their busiest times of the year. And to kick off the big Thanksgiving holiday, they have decided to have a pie contest. And the rules are that the pies have to be homemade and they have to include maple syrup in the recipe.
Main character Leila Khoury took over the family business, Sappy Endings, when her father died. She returned home to Sugar Ridge Vermont from Florida and is now running the business with her boyfriend Noah and her mother.
Unfortunately before the contest kicks off Leila has to run up to the main building and when she gets back her nosy neighbor Margaret Middleton has decided that she is going to be a judge and takes a bite of one of the pies. A few minutes later she collapses and is taken to the hospital. Sadly she does not make it and it is discovered that the pie that she tasted was poisoned.
So was someone targeted or is there a crazy person who takes joy in killing anyone ?? Well, Leila is going to find out with her trusty best friend Heather helping.
Lelia has been able to solve a few murders in the past, with her father's being the first, but this may be more that she can handle .... but she is not going to let anything stop her when Sappy Endings is taking the hit for it with sales down drastically. She will do anything to save her family's business and not let her father's dream end.
I cannot say enough about this series. It is set in beautiful Vermont at a maple syrup business with some great people running it. The town is nice and most of the residents are friendly and you will want to go visit and enjoy the day !!
In In the Blink of a Pie Sappy Endings is gearing up for one of their busiest times of the year. And to kick off the big Thanksgiving holiday, they have decided to have a pie contest. And the rules are that the pies have to be homemade and they have to include maple syrup in the recipe.
Main character Leila Khoury took over the family business, Sappy Endings, when her father died. She returned home to Sugar Ridge Vermont from Florida and is now running the business with her boyfriend Noah and her mother.
Unfortunately before the contest kicks off Leila has to run up to the main building and when she gets back her nosy neighbor Margaret Middleton has decided that she is going to be a judge and takes a bite of one of the pies. A few minutes later she collapses and is taken to the hospital. Sadly she does not make it and it is discovered that the pie that she tasted was poisoned.
So was someone targeted or is there a crazy person who takes joy in killing anyone ?? Well, Leila is going to find out with her trusty best friend Heather helping.
Lelia has been able to solve a few murders in the past, with her father's being the first, but this may be more that she can handle .... but she is not going to let anything stop her when Sappy Endings is taking the hit for it with sales down drastically. She will do anything to save her family's business and not let her father's dream end.
I cannot say enough about this series. It is set in beautiful Vermont at a maple syrup business with some great people running it. The town is nice and most of the residents are friendly and you will want to go visit and enjoy the day !!
September 6, 2024
In the Blink of a Pie is the third installment in Catherine Bruns' wonderful Maple Syrup Mysteries series, and this series overall has become a new favorite of mine. I couldn't wait to dive into this one after loving the first two books in the series, and the synopsis sounded both intriguing and terrifying.
It was definitely a worthy addition to the series, and I continue to find Leila a relatable character. I enjoyed the fact that this one dives into more of her complicated relationship with her mother, and what her past entailed during her time in Florida. The relationship progression between herself and Noah seemed natural and realistic, and the struggles they go through during this story felt like something that could easily happen to anyone else facing that particular situation. The setting was also a continued delight, and I love how atmospheric and cozy this series is a whole.
The only thing that kept this one from being another five star read for me was the fact that the I thought the killer was incredibly obvious by about a third of the way into the story, and I was left slightly disappointed when almost everything was revealed to be exactly what I was expecting.
Overall, I still loved the story and would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries, but I think I preferred the first two titles to this one personally.
Final Rating: 4/5.
Thanks so much to Poisoned Pen Press for allowing me to advance read and review this title!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Poisoned Pen Press) via NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.
It was definitely a worthy addition to the series, and I continue to find Leila a relatable character. I enjoyed the fact that this one dives into more of her complicated relationship with her mother, and what her past entailed during her time in Florida. The relationship progression between herself and Noah seemed natural and realistic, and the struggles they go through during this story felt like something that could easily happen to anyone else facing that particular situation. The setting was also a continued delight, and I love how atmospheric and cozy this series is a whole.
The only thing that kept this one from being another five star read for me was the fact that the I thought the killer was incredibly obvious by about a third of the way into the story, and I was left slightly disappointed when almost everything was revealed to be exactly what I was expecting.
Overall, I still loved the story and would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries, but I think I preferred the first two titles to this one personally.
Final Rating: 4/5.
Thanks so much to Poisoned Pen Press for allowing me to advance read and review this title!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Poisoned Pen Press) via NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.
October 23, 2024
IN THE BLINK OF A PIE by Catherine Bruns
The Third Maple Syrup Mystery
To prepare for the holiday season manager Leila Khoury decides to try something new to bring more business to her family's maple syrup farm. The inaugural pie baking competition at Sappy Endings turns tragic, however when the curmudgeonly Margaret Middleton dies after helping herself to a piece of pie. But was Margaret the intended victim? She wasn't even supposed to eat the pie. Leila was. As business rapidly declines, Leila decides she can't wait for the police to solve the murder and, with her good friend Heather, starts nosing around. Unfortunately, it soon becomes evident that the killer isn't through and it's more than Sappy Endings' bottom line that's in trouble.
Despite the danger the third Maple Syrup Mystery gives plenty of warm fuzzies. Leila and Noah have a wonderful relationship that's growing stronger every day. The pair compliment each other so well. I also love how Leila and Selma are repairing their relationship, growing closer, despite Jenna's infiltration. Of course Heather is the best bestie and I love Toast most of all. It's this love, familial, romantic, and friendly, that makes you care about Sappy Endings and the people who make it special.
Even though I knew who the killer was halfway though the novel, as well as the motive, it didn't dim my enjoyment in the least. I watched as Leila followed red herring after red herring and wondered when she would finally realize the truth. I also figured out Emma's issue well before Leila or even Noah...and I don't even like kids! As annoying as I found Emma's behavior, I have to commend her actions at the end of the book.
With ratcheting drama IN THE BLINK OF A PIE captures the warmth of family and the delight of good food even as an unknown person threatens everything!
The Third Maple Syrup Mystery
To prepare for the holiday season manager Leila Khoury decides to try something new to bring more business to her family's maple syrup farm. The inaugural pie baking competition at Sappy Endings turns tragic, however when the curmudgeonly Margaret Middleton dies after helping herself to a piece of pie. But was Margaret the intended victim? She wasn't even supposed to eat the pie. Leila was. As business rapidly declines, Leila decides she can't wait for the police to solve the murder and, with her good friend Heather, starts nosing around. Unfortunately, it soon becomes evident that the killer isn't through and it's more than Sappy Endings' bottom line that's in trouble.
Despite the danger the third Maple Syrup Mystery gives plenty of warm fuzzies. Leila and Noah have a wonderful relationship that's growing stronger every day. The pair compliment each other so well. I also love how Leila and Selma are repairing their relationship, growing closer, despite Jenna's infiltration. Of course Heather is the best bestie and I love Toast most of all. It's this love, familial, romantic, and friendly, that makes you care about Sappy Endings and the people who make it special.
Even though I knew who the killer was halfway though the novel, as well as the motive, it didn't dim my enjoyment in the least. I watched as Leila followed red herring after red herring and wondered when she would finally realize the truth. I also figured out Emma's issue well before Leila or even Noah...and I don't even like kids! As annoying as I found Emma's behavior, I have to commend her actions at the end of the book.
With ratcheting drama IN THE BLINK OF A PIE captures the warmth of family and the delight of good food even as an unknown person threatens everything!
November 8, 2024
This is the 3rd book in the Maple Syrup Mystery series by Catherine Bruns. Each book could be read as a stand alone but it's best to read them in order to get to know the characters, their backgrounds and connections to each other.
Lelia Khoury has been running her family's maple syrup farm for a year, ever since her father was murdered leaving the business to her. As Thanksgiving approaches she sets up a pie baking contest with proceeds to help the local food bank where her friend volunteers. All is going well until one of the attendees eats a pie filled with poison and dies. The death leads to customers pulling contracts and leaving the farm hanging by a thread. To save the business. Lelia takes matters into her own hands to figure out who is behind the poison laced pie and who it was intended for .
The characters are multi-dimensional and the family drama adds to the story and helps to develop the characters further. The whodunit is a well crafted, engaging , cozy mystery offering many viable suspects. There's even a touch of romance! I enjoyed this latest opportunity to revisit Vermont , the farm and the entire Khoury family. The ending not only reveals the killer but sets up the characters for , hopefully, a fourth book.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC copy. Opinions are my own.
Lelia Khoury has been running her family's maple syrup farm for a year, ever since her father was murdered leaving the business to her. As Thanksgiving approaches she sets up a pie baking contest with proceeds to help the local food bank where her friend volunteers. All is going well until one of the attendees eats a pie filled with poison and dies. The death leads to customers pulling contracts and leaving the farm hanging by a thread. To save the business. Lelia takes matters into her own hands to figure out who is behind the poison laced pie and who it was intended for .
The characters are multi-dimensional and the family drama adds to the story and helps to develop the characters further. The whodunit is a well crafted, engaging , cozy mystery offering many viable suspects. There's even a touch of romance! I enjoyed this latest opportunity to revisit Vermont , the farm and the entire Khoury family. The ending not only reveals the killer but sets up the characters for , hopefully, a fourth book.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC copy. Opinions are my own.
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