Member Reviews
I love a good cozy mystery that I can sink my teeth into but, the last few books in this series have ended up being more fluff and puff than meaty. I keep reading out of habit. I keep hoping that Hannah will get a clue about her own life. That she'll be blessed with some insight and some clarity and that there will finally be some resolution to the biggest mystery of her un-loved life. I enjoyed some of the recipes early on in the series but they've become stranger & stranger as the series has continued. At least 1/3rd of the book is now recipes, just a way to make the word count longer IMO. With a weak plot and somewhat unbelievable events, disjointed and disconnected character stories, I'd have to say this book is half baked at best for me. I hate to say it, but I think it's time to tie up all the loose ends, have Hannah make a decision, and wrap up the series. Stick a fork in it, I think it's done.
Caramel Pecan Roll Murder by Joanne Fluke is the 28th book in the Hannah Swensen series, and it's very disappointing. I have read every book in this series, and it's had it's ups and downs, but what did I just read? There was no suspense, this book was about eating, especially Mike. I have always been team Norman, but now I could care less if Hannah picked any one now. I really don't care about the cliff hanger at the end of the book. I really miss the earlier books that were fun and suspenseful. I might be done with this series, very sad.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
It’s time for another visit at the beautiful lake Eden. With a big fish competition taking place, Hannah sets aside her usual cookie baking to have some fun with pastries while helping the local Inn. The event is bringing all kinds of big names and lots of excitement to the lake. All things seem to be going wonderfully until a TV host is found dead and now Hannah is not just baking pastries but fishing for clues as well.
Caramel Pecan Roll Murder is a lighthearted and fun cozy mystery with a romantic twist. As this is a long running series you could read as a standalone however I do think you will miss some of the Background and underlying meanings of things between certain characters events and actions. However if you are an avid reader and enjoy this sort of thing you will be able to figure out easily enough what is going on. With that said, I did enjoy this read. Hannah is a little off in this book and that is understandable. I do hope that she finds herself quickly and is able to get back to herself . The mystery of Caramel Pecan Roll Murder is what we’ve come to love from this author. Lots of twist interns with many red herrings to keep you guessing. Although I figured it out easily it was still an enjoyable read. I like that Andrea is becoming more of a present character in the stories. Visiting with Dick and Sally is always a good time. I am looking forward to seeing how this Hannah-Mike-Norman thing turns outs.
I wish all my books had recipes in it. It would make reading fun. Or actually it really just makes me hungry!
This mystery takes place during a fishing contest at the Lake Eden Inn. A contestant is murdered in his boat and the crime fighting baker, Hannah and her sister Andrea set out to find the culprit. It works out since the sisters are helping the owners of the Inn as bakers during the contest. The crime is solved by Hannah in a predictable way but the readers will be surprised by Policeman, Mike’s surprising future announcement at the conclusion of the book.
As in most of the Fluke mystery books, the plot is laid out logically and sequential. Always easy to read and to follow the events of the story. The change of venue from Hannah’s bakery to the Inn kitchen was a refreshing and interesting change from most of the Fluke mysteries. The descriptions of the Inn are vivid and cozy. The special relationship between sisters Hannah and Andrea was exemplified in this story and was a pleasure to read. Hannah goes out of her way to make Andrea feel like a master baker, which she is not, in an effect to boost her self-esteem.
The book had an outstanding and varied selection of recipes, from cookies to appetizers and entrees. Always a favorite aspect of these books
A great read that’s descriptive, logical and interesting!
The latest in the long-running Hannah Swensen series, though this has a quite different feel from earlier volumes. Hannah was not in the Cookie Jar (so we got no Lisa, because she *was* in the Cookie Jar), we also got very little of Delores, whom I missed because I was looking forward to hearing the antics of her latest adventure that was occurring in this book. And that means I was missing other things, too, but I won’t say what in my review because I don’t want to spoil it.
The mystery in this seemed very thin, with a dearth of clues and what few clues there were I had forgotten about by the time Hannah and Andrea got around to investigating them, which they didn’t do right away. And what little investigation there was only happened in the last half of the book. I know this because the murder/body discovery doesn’t even happen until 41% in. Much too late, in my opinion. And I pegged the killer right away when Hannah met them, which is not usually a problem for me but this time it felt like just another thing to be annoyed about.
And the inconsistencies abound. I found myself shaking my head because the story contradicted itself on many occasions. There were timeline issues as well, with the thread of when things were meant to be happening were earlier/later in the day, among other things. And the pod characters, almost no-one acted like themselves.
The twist at the end might be a signal that the author is planning to wind up this series, and if this book is to be the benchmark for that, wrapping things up might be the correct way to go.
I have been a huge fan of Hannah since the beginning. However, I was a little disappointed in this book. It didn't seem to have the pazzaz as the other books. I love how the setting moved from the Cookie shop to the hotel. I enjoy a visit to see Dick and Sally. Hannah still seems to be lost in this book. As a reader, I was hoping she could have finally moved forward with her life and especially her love life. The true murderer was not an easy one to pick this time. I didn't figure it out until the reveal. The recipes were not as original as in other books. Many premade ingredients were used which if Hannah is truly a baker she would have done from scratch. Still there are several that I will be trying but with my own twists. I will continue to read the next stories. As I said I am a huge fan of Hannah and really do want to see how her story unfolds. I received a copy through Netgalley. A review was not required.
Thank you for this advanced copy. Very light hearted book by Joanne Fluke. I do enjoy a good Hannah Swenson mystery. This book wasn't as interesting to me as books in the past, but still a nice story. As always, some great recipes were included. Shocking ending about Mike so can't wait to see what happens in the next book.
Love Joanne Fluke and the Hannah Swenson series. I can't wait to try these new recipes!
Hannah is always up to something! And this book doesn't disappoint.
When the pastry chef at friends Sally and Dick's Inn has to leave for a family emergency before the fishing tournament, Hannah Swensen agrees to fill-in, When the philandering "star" of the fishing show sponsoring the event is found dead in his boat, Hannah and her sister Andrea are doing a shadow investigation, trying to stay out of the way of the official investigation of Hannah's onetime suitor, Mike, the acting sheriff while Andrea's husband Bill is at a sheriff's conference. The surprises and connections keep coming as the sisters' contacts give more information. Hannah, as always, finds the culprit, with a little last minute help from Mike. Lots of great recipes included.
I figured this one out before the end, but it was still a great read.
Joanne Fluke, I wanted so much more! I was 50% of the way through the book before I felt like anything was happening in terms of the investigation. There's a fishing competition taking place at the Lake Eden Inn and Hannah has been asked by Sally to stay at the Inn and help with the baking. Sally invites Norman and Andrea to stay too ( I really wondered how the Inn had too many rooms that Sally could put up all these people and have guests for the competition). When the competition's host turns up dead, Hannah and Norman assist Mike in figuring out what happened. Mike is having a bit of an identity crisis in this book as is Hannah. Hannah seems to be trying to figure out how to regain her footing after Ross. Just as the book was getting interesting, it ended. It ended on a bit of a cliffhanger. More than anything, I was disappointed by the amount of recipes in the book, it felt like over 1/3 of the book was recipes and the storyline left me wishing for me. I am certain I'll read the next installment, because I'm invested in Hannah and Lake Eden, but I wanted more.
Hannah is asked to help out her friend Sally with baking during a fishing competition. During the competition, the celebrity host of the event is found dead. Hannah and her family start investigating. I always love the characters in this series. It was interesting to see Hannah away from The Cookie Jar. They mystery was ok. I wasn't expecting who the killer was.
Loved reading this book and author. There is always a twist in this series and making you want the next book to come out right away. If you haven't read this series yet, I suggest reading in order.
Hannah Swensen is still reeling from the death of her husband, Ross. Hannah and her furbaby, Moishe have been staying at Norman’s place. Hannah is not sure that Moishe will ever be able to return to their home. She feels that she needs to make a change soon because of all the rumors floating around town regarding her and Norman. Sally, owner of the Lake Eden Inn with her husband Dirk, is in a dilemma and needs Hannah’s assistance. The Walleye Fishing Tournament is taking place at the inn and Sally is hoping to get them to return every year. Her pastry chef has a family emergency and Sally needs someone to make the pastries. Hannah feels this is a chance for a change of scenery and is happy to help Sally. Hannah gets a room at the inn since she needs to be up early to bake the breakfast items. Hannah is on the lake with Norman one afternoon when they spot a boat going around in circles. They find the famed fishing television host, Sonny Bowman slumped over the wheel of the boat—dead. Hannah is on the case with Andrea as her sidekick. They find there are several people who wanted the handsome host dead. Hannah and Andrea fish for clues in the hopes of reeling in the killer. Caramel Pecan Roll Murder by Joanne Fluke is the 28th A Hannah Swensen Mystery. I do not feel Caramel Pecan Roll Murder is a standalone book. New readers will find the background information needed to be missing. Fans of the series (like me), though, will enjoy it. I have read every Hannah Swensen mystery. Caramel Pecan Roll Murder picks up a few weeks after the death with Ross, Hannah’s “husband” has been cleared up. Hannah is lacking her confidence after everything that has happened. I hope she gets it back soon. I understand that Hannah loves her condo, but I feel it would be best for her and Moishe if she sold it and found a new place to live (I see her in a cozy little house with lots of play space for Moishe and Cuddles). I feel bad for Moishe, and I am glad that he has Cuddles to keep him company and has Hannah’s mother to spoil him. The mystery had a dead television host at a fishing tournament. The man was a piece of work so naturally there are a number of suspects. Hannah with help from Andrea sets out to hook the killer. Hannah could use the diversion as her thoughts keep going back to Ross. There are good clues to help readers solve the crime before the reveal. The reveal was dramatic and tense. We get all our questions answered regarding the whodunit. The pacing was a little slower for Caramel Pecan Roll Murder. I enjoyed my latest visit to Lake Eden. We are left with a little cliffhanger at the end of Caramel Pecan Roll Murder. I am curious how it will turn out. I enjoyed catching up with Hannah, Mike, Norman, Delores, Andrea, Michelle, Lonnie, Lisa, and, of course, Moishe. I look forward to seeing what Hannah will do next. Caramel Pecan Roll Murder is a tasty treat with timorous Moishe, a sloshed Sonny, a distressed Sally, a helpful Hannah, a considerate Norman, able assistant Andrea, a sympathetic Mike, and a mysterious murder.
Oh mayn, give me all the Joanne Fluke books but also don't forget the pecan roll. I received a complimentary copy from Kensington books and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Caramel Pecan Roll Murder is book 28 in the Hannah Swensen series . The book follows Hannah who decides to take a break baking up the yummy goodies everyone loves at the Cookie Jar to help out at the inn. The inn are hosting a few guests for the fishing tournament and the owner needs help baking pastries for the guest. Hannah in need of a break from routine decides to help. What get's caught on this tournament is more than fish when Hannah 'stumbles 'on the lifeless body of a famous person. This book had everything a good cozy needs and I can't recommend it enough. Enjoyed the recipes, the plot, the characters -I enjoyed everything. Highly recommend.
If you love a book about food and like getting new recipes, then this book is for you.
I love a quick easy murder mystery, but this one felt like a book about food and only about food. After over a quarter of the way through the book, there wasn't any murder/action. All they talked about was eating appetizers and making food for the buffet. I guess eating food isn't that interesting to me.
Thanks Netgalley and publisher for the digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
I received this book free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
hmm... where to start. I like the Hannah Swenson series because it feels like visiting old friends. You know there ill be a murder, Hannah will solve it and lots of very interesting recipes along the way. I did enjoy how she weaved some of the characters into the story. Rosa, the maid. Who knew she had another life.
I was very puzzled to see that Hannah was still staying with Norman and wasn't afraid of people talking but when they both stay at the Inn, they need to make it clear to everyone that they are not staying together. Hannah seems more committed to Norman but Mike is still in the picture but not as much this time and he is having his own issues with his job. It is the job for him any longer?
I will continue to read the series but maybe with not as much enthusiasm as before.
3.5/5 stars.
A sweet break from some of my heavier reading, Hannah also takes a break from her cookie shop to help out at the local inn during a fishing tournament. No surprise, someone ends up dead. And, honestly, no surprise who did the dastardly deed. I was a little surprised that at no point did Hannah check in with The Cookie Jar to see how things were going. I did somehow feel like the story wrapped up too quickly at the end. The fishing tournament seemed like the main storyline and I think I could have used an extra chapter at the end to tie that up, even after the murder had been solved. And yes, I know, normally I complain that the books linger on and on after solving the crime. But, I did like how the ending leaves us wondering what will take place in the next installment. Seems like the author has finally figured out where this series might be headed!
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
As we cozy up to this next in the series of Hannah Swenson mysteries based in fictional Lake Eden Minnesota, Hannah is platonically living with Norman, Mike doesn't seem like the Mike we've come to know and love, and Moishe is making moving back into her condo a difficult decision for Hannah. Oh...and there's a murder to solve.
A situation at the Lake Eden Inn has Hannah covering for the pastry chef there. She is able to 'move' from Norman's place to the Inn to keep the citizens of Lake Eden from thinking there is anything going on between she and Norman. Come on, they're both adults...but whatever. Mike is on the periphery of this book, even when working to solve the murder.
I always like these books. The stories are usually sound and the recipes make up for a lot. This book just felt a bit forced. You knew the few people who could have done it very early in the story and I kind of think Hannah needs to figures out who she is and make a decision about who she wants to go through life with. That she is still thinking about her ex, Ross just doesn't make sense to me.
There is a bit of a cliff hanger at the end, so I hope the next book in this series has a bit more depth than this one did.
I keep hoping that Joanne Fluke will recapture the previous magic from previous stories about The Cookie Jar and Hannah Swenson. However, this book isn't it. Dialogue so simplified that I kept thinking it was sarcasm, characters that are as transparent as saran wrap and recipes so detailed that they deserve their own book. I really think half the book are unnecessary instructions in a recipe. The only saving grace is the identity of the murderer was a surprise. Or maybe I was just so bored from the book that I didn't see obvious clues.
I voluntarily received a copy of the book from Netgalley.