Cats and Cookies

At times, I felt that I did not belong among the other readers (listeners) to this book. In recently looking through the mystery section of a local bookstore to find some new names to listen to when I felt the need for a light and airy book, I had noted the authors name and the amount of shelf space her books occupied. Happily audible. com gave me a chance to find out whether she would join my happy circle of authors. I believe this is, as of now, her only audiobook.
Clearly, in thinking through what kind of book would work with the predominantly female audience (according to the surveys) for mystery stories, she took to heart the characters who seem to be the backbone of some of the successful series. Her heroine and crime solver is a baker who specializes in what we are told are the most delicious cookies ever tasted, and, of course, she is unmarried, has two suitors, and, most importantly, a cat.
In brief, if you are looking for light, airy,and feminine (not feminist) this book will please you.
It is not as well written as are Lillian Brauns nor as well read as that most successful authors (unabridged) audiobooks have been, but both are adequate to the purpose. The heroine has two sisters who help her get the facts whereby she solves the mysteries and a mother who is a mild pain to all three but is good of heart nonetheless. Romantic musings are small town gossip are of central importance with the mystery part being of no particular importance save to show the heroines talent. Insofar as one will be engaged by the problem solving do not expect a Cornwall or Grafton touch of grit. This is all play acting which might stretch too far one's ability to grant credibility save that one soon adjusts to the lack of credibility and either goes on to the foregone conclusion or pushes the stop button. I went to the end and did not regret it.

15 people found this helpful

Run, don't walk away from this purchase

The ONLY book in my 3 years with Audible that I couldn't tolerate to finish. Guess I was hoping for another Diane Mott Davidson, but not even in the same universe with her.

7 people found this helpful

Cherry Cheesecake Murder

Another great book by Joanne Fluke! Her characters in Lake Eden, Minnesota are entertaining and the culinary mystery angle is great. Delicious recipes included even in the audio version.

For those who like light, cozy mysteries, quirky characters and an entertaining story, I would definitely recommend anything by Joanne Fluke. the Audio version doesn't disappoint either!

4 people found this helpful

I'm Officially DONE with these series

Hannah is not a likeable character. She gets worse with each book to be honest. I only started this series because of the Hallmark films starting Allison Sweeney.

After listening to quite a few of these books, I've noticed it's never difficult to figure out the killer. I figured out the twist right before the reveal and the actual killer as well. Getting back to why I don't like Hannah, she acts like she is some kind of victim when it comes to Norman and Mike when it's HER who is treating them horribly. I find it hard to believe that both men would be okay with her solution to their proposals and then the fact that she's kissing a THIRD man. Normally, I wouldn't be too bothered by a character playing the field but it is so inconsistent with her other morals. She thinks it's scandalous for someone to have a tattoo or be in an interracial couple (see previous books). I just can't stand her anymore.

In addition, the author goes overboard on the extra info. I get it. She loves her cat and this is a cozy but spending sooooo much time writing about her cat (which has nothing to do with the plot) can be a bit much.

2 people found this helpful

great series

I love this whole series and you can't go wrong with it. Hannah always helps to find the killer even without trying.

1 person found this helpful

Not worth the time

What did you like best about Cherry Cheesecake Murder? What did you like least?

I found the plot and characters too hollow and easily predictable. Not worth the time...

1 person found this helpful

Cherry Cheesecake Murder

I love listening to this series of books. They are fun and easy listening. Still have a few more to listen to. Can't wait for a new book from the author.

1 person found this helpful

Hannah’s mother is a monster

I literally hate this fictional person to my core. I hate hannah’s mother. Every negative thing a mother could pick apart about her daughter comes out of that woman’s mouth. I doubt ill finish this book cause i just can’t anymore. Its abusive

Great story, amazing recipes!

I love following the characters through each new mystery.
I get hungry listening to the recipes.

I can’t believe all the low ratings!!’

This was an absolutely amazing story and I can’t even start on all the things I like about it! but I will say the new male suitor is a bit annoying. I mean girl, Norman. JUST NORMAN-