Spice Isle Bakery owner Lyndsay Murray is always looking for new ways to grow her family’s business. But she regrets agreeing to host the retirement dinner for local high school principal Emily Smith. The tyrant used to be her mother's boss, and they did not get along. Emily starts convulsing after eating the curry chicken and dies soon after. It’s not long before the Murray family are back into the heart of another murder investigation, losing customers in the process. Lyndsay must put aside her reservations about investigating another crime, because the Murrays refuse to go down without a fight.
This was a really good culinary cozy mystery that made me hungry at times. I love the characters, and Lyndsey is a great reluctant amateur sleuth. I couldn't figure out the identity of the murderer and was surprised in the end. The one thing that took me out of the story was when the author used the phrase “kissed her teeth” throughout the book. I counted at least 8 times a character in this story did that. It became very annoying. Otherwise, this book would've gotten 5 stars. Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for the opportunity of reading this advanced reader's copy. This review is my unbiased opinion.

I love a good cozy mystery! One that incorporates all of my favorite topics (i.e. genealogy, bookstores, libraries, cooking, painting, inn keeping, animals, etc.), throwing in some action-suspense, a who-done-it, interesting characters, and a plot that keeps me guessing, then you’ve got me hooked. I will say, I am one of those people who like to read a series from the beginning, but I often find you don’t have to… either way I highly recommend reading Hard Dough Homicide by Olivia Matthews.

*I received a complimentary copy of this novel from NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.*

Hard Dough Homicide is book two in Olivia Matthews’ Spice Island Bakery mystery series. Matthews is the pen name for Patricia Sargeant, a well-known, award-winning author of romance novels.

The Spice Island Bakery series transports readers to the world of Little Caribbean in Brooklyn, New York. This multi-generational cozy is told from the perspective of Lyndsay Murray. Lyndsay's family hails from the island of Grenada. Through research, including interviews with Matthews' family members, the author brings the culture, history, folklore, and delicious, lesser-known food to the reader’s attention. For example, “hard dough bread” is a staple of the islands. It’s a dense, slightly sweet bread similar to a Pullman loaf.

Unlike the bread, the homicide in this cozy is anything but sweet. Lyndsay’s mother has recently retired from teaching and is reluctantly forced to cater a dinner for her former principal, Emily Smith. No one, not the guests nor the Murray family, is eager to participate in this retirement party. Unfortunately, the principal’s retirement becomes permanent when she dies on the scene—poisoned. Fearing that the family’s business is once again threatened with closure, Lyndsay is determined to find answers. Her efforts intensify when her mother becomes a suspect. This fast-paced cozy, complete with a budding romance for Lyndsay, offers a window into a fascinating culture and cuisine.

Recommended for all cozy lovers and those looking to expand their culinary horizons. Recipes included.

Full disclosure: I received this ARC from Netgalley and St. Martin’s in exchange for an unbiased review.

BOOK REVIEW ALERT – Review, Recommendation, Rating & Opinion are my own.

This book is the second installment in Olivia Matthews’ Spice Isle Bakery Mystery series. The story follows Lyndsay Murray, who, along with her family, runs the Spice Isle Bakery in Brooklyn. The plot thickens when the bakery’s most difficult customer, Claudette, dies after eating one of their famous Jamaican patties. Determined to clear her family’s name and save their bakery’s reputation, Lyndsay embarks on a quest to uncover the real killer.

Lyndsay Murray is a relatable and determined protagonist. Her journey from baker to amateur sleuth is both believable and engaging, driven by her love for her family and her desire to see justice served. The dynamic within the Murray family adds depth to the story, showcasing their unwavering support for one another in times of crisis.

The mystery itself is well-crafted, with enough red herrings and twists to keep readers guessing until the very end. Matthews skillfully balances the cozy elements with the tension of the murder investigation, creating a narrative that is both comforting and suspenseful.

One of the standout aspects of the novel is its rich cultural detail. The descriptions of the bakery’s offerings—particularly the Jamaican patties—and the incorporation of Caribbean customs and language add authenticity and charm to the story. This cultural infusion sets the Spice Isle Bakery Mystery series apart from other cozy mysteries, making it a refreshing and unique addition to the genre.

Rating – 4.0/5 Stars
Recommendation – High

This read is a thoroughly enjoyable cozy mystery that will appeal to fans of the genre and those looking to immerse themselves in a story rich with cultural flavor. Olivia Matthews has crafted a charming and compelling sequel that promises more exciting adventures for Lyndsay Murray and the Spice Isle Bakery. If you enjoy mysteries with heart, humor, and a dash of spice, this book is a must-read.

3.5*/5

This is the second in the series, so the characters and setting are already established. Despite that, I didn't find it difficult to connect to any part of it and it was a nice gentle mystery which I enjoyed, although I didn't read it especially quickly.

I have to admit, I almost stopped reading when I got to the first 'mommy and daddy' which I found incredibly awkward. I stopped calling my mum 'mummy' when I was 14, so having a fully grown adult calling her parents that grated initially. I did pause my reading about there, but once I told myself it's a cultural thing, I was fine with it and managed the rest of the book without an issue in that regard.

The characters are well drawn, the business sounds amazing (and the food...oh my goodness!), and there's a strong bond with Lyndsay and her family. They all work together in the bakery, apart from her brother, who's a lawyer. They have a core group of regular customers who haven't given up on them after the first murder, and who continue to patronise the business around this, the second one.

It's a solid three stars from me - it's well written and the mystery is good. I just found it a bit slow and repetitive, with Lyndsay reminding us over and over that she was bullied in high school, and the fact that she was very antagonistic towards the detectives DOING THEIR JOB when her family became suspects (among many others who were). Uncomfortable? Yes. Embarrassing? Yes. Necessary? Unfortunately, also yes. If people keep dying at the bakery, the family had better get used to being questioned as suspects by the police! So those two points brought the rating down a little bit for me. Otherwise, I'd like to go back to the first book and start at the beginning, as it was an enjoyable and relaxing read.

I was thrilled to be approved for an arc of Hard Dough Homicide; A Spice Isle Bakery Mystery by Olivia Matthews! This was adorably cute and a wonderful mystery! I was truly thankful to have gotten to read this before most people! I would like to purchase this one for my physical library!

"Hard Dough Homicide" by Olivia Matthews is a delectable mix of mystery, intrigue, and mouthwatering treats that will leave you craving more!

Matthews crafts a compelling whodunit that keeps readers guessing until the very end. The plot's twists and turns are as irresistible as the tantalizing aromas wafting from Spice Isle Bakery's kitchen. From the first page to the last, you'll find yourself eagerly turning pages, eager to uncover the secrets hidden within the bustling streets of Little Caribbean.

What sets "Hard Dough Homicide" apart is its richly drawn characters and vivid sense of place. Lyndsay is a relatable and resourceful protagonist, and her determination to protect her family and livelihood is inspiring and endearing. From quirky neighbours to suspicious suspects, the supporting cast adds depth and flavour to the story, creating a tapestry of personalities that will keep you invested from start to finish.

But the show's true star is the mouthwatering array of Caribbean cuisine lovingly described throughout the book. From savoury jerk chicken to sweet coconut bread, each culinary creation adds authenticity and charm to the story, transporting readers to the island's heart.

In "Hard Dough Homicide," Olivia Matthews delivers a delightful mystery as satisfying as a warm slice of pie. So, grab a cup of tea, settle into your favourite armchair, and prepare to be whisked away on a deliciously thrilling adventure through the streets of Little Caribbean. Trust me, you won't be able to resist this tempting treat of a book!

For lovers of unique and super cozy mysteries, this sounds like a book that would be perfect to read especially during the summer!

I wish I loved the first book more before reading the second. I wasn’t emotionally attached to the FMC simply because she wasn’t written in a way that was relatable to the plot. This kind of gives me Finley Donovan vibes but with a completely different setting, but similar in that it feels repetitive.

I gave this an honest try until 50%, and then I started skimming. It had all the elements of a cozy mystery- small business, amateur sleuth who needs to solve a murder to save her business, and a vague romantic event. But it didn’t do these things well. The MC didn’t start trying to solve the murder until 40% into the book, and she was just berating the police up to (and after) that point. She was ridiculous, heard what she wanted to hear (putting words in peoples mouths) and her solving the crime was rushed and far-fetched. And the romantic dynamic didn’t work at all. Completely forced and didn’t make sense. Very repetitive writing.

I enjoyed the first book in this cozy food mystery series set in a Caribbean bakery in Brooklyn. I'm sad to say that this was wasn't as good for me. The mystery felt more forced and the sense of community that I'd enjoyed in the first book wasn't as evident here. I'll give her another try though.

Lyndsay Murray has a lot more on her plate besides running the bakery she owns, she also plunges headfirst into solving a murder yet again. The last time her new bakery, located in Little Caribbean in Brooklyn, catered an event, a man died. This time around, she has been hired to cater a retirement dinner for a retiring school principal, Emily Smith. This does not please her mother as she worked under the Emily and they had a contentious relationship.

In fact, with only five guests invited to this dinner, it becomes more than apparent that none of them like Emily either. Dinner is served, and shortly afterwards Emily drops dead. Since it was more than apparent that Lyndsay's mother utterly disliked Emily, she becomes the prime suspect. Having had great success in solving a murder previously, she proves determined to prove her mother's innocence, and to find the killer herself.

Lyndsay's family has a lot of faith in her finding the means, motive and opportunity to commit the murder. Despite running headlong into the detective in charge, Bryce, Lyndsay is growing more fond of him as time goes on. This was an excellent second book in an already delightful series by Olivia Matthews.

Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

I absolutely loved the first book in this series, the family, Lyndsay really trying something new with her career, and learning about the different food and culture. I love it so much!

When Lyndsey's Spice Isle Bakery in Little Caribbean in NYC is hired to host a retirement party, the feelings are mixed. On one hand, it's a lot of money, and catering would be a great new avenue for the business. On the other, it's for Lyndsey's mom's old boss, the principle of a local school--and whom everyone despises. So when the vile woman drops dead at the dinner and it looks like poison might be the cause, everyone's a suspect. Unfortunately, including Lyndsey's mom. Lyndsey sets out to solve another case, clear her mother's name, and prove to the handsome detective that he shouldn't jump to conclusions--again.

I had somewhat put off reading this one because I didn't love the first book in this series, and there's lots of cozy mysteries out there. But I ultimately really enjoyed this one, mostly for the fun locked-room aspect of the murder. It gave us a closed world of suspects to consider, which I love, and lots of clues for the reader to figure out the whodunit. I think it would be interesting to listen to this one on audiobook, hopefully with a narrator who can capture the accents well.

The only thing I didn't like was the stereotypical representation of BigLaw. Lyndsey's brother is a lawyer at a large law firm, and it portrays him as constantly burn out and unhappy with uncaring supervisors. While that's certainly true at some places--perhaps even most places--it's a lazy stereotype that didn't need to perpetuated in this context. Why do no books ever include happy lawyers? It's the Hallmark movie paradox: no big city career woman can ever be happy. Alright, I'll step off my soapbox.

Thanks to St. Martin's for my eARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.

5 stars - 8/10

Thank you St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the eARC of Hard Dough Homicide! All opinions in this review are my own.

I like the combination of food and family in this cozy mystery series. Lyndsay is able to solve these mysteries because of the support of her family, even if they have the unluckiest bakery in the city. I always enjoy a closed door mystery and Hard Dough Homicide was no different! I'm glad the second book lived up to the first and I'm excited to read the third one now!

I loved this book, it gave me everything I wanted as a reader and more. I am a sucker for a cover and fell in love with the storyline and characters. Well written and kept me engaged :)

I am such a sucker for cozies but especially ones with food at the center! Before reading this one, I picked up the first book in the series and really enjoyed it. This book has a great setting, incredible food, and the family/characters are really amazing. A very cozy cozy indeed!

A murder has occurred, and the Spice Isle Bakery is, once again, at the forefront of the excitement. Lyndsay's mother is one of the prime suspects, and Lyndsay doesn't feel that the police are working fast enough to remove her mother's name from the suspect list. As usual, Lyndsay inserts herself into the investigation and wraps things up for the detectives.

While the first installment of this series was entertaining, this second book now feels childish and campy. Lyndsay all but throws a tantrum every time she sees Bryce and accuses him of not working hard enough to clear her mother's name. She lashes out at Jose, the reporter, because he wrote a seemingly one-sided piece, even though Lyndsay refused to give a quote and say her mom was innocent. Over and above Lyndsay's outbursts, she consistently calls her parents "mommy" and "daddy," and she is in her mid-20s... it's just bizarre, seeing as her older brother calls them "mom" and "dad," as any other adult would.

I have the third book in this series but, if the prose goes downhill even more than in this second book, I don't think I will be continuing this series.

This ARC was provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.

The Grenadian culture is so prevalent in this cozy mystery series and I absolutely adore that! I have learned so much just from reading the two books that I never knew and that makes reading them that much more fun! Lyndsey is a bad-ass in her own right, but all the help she gets from her family and friends just helps the story so much. On to the third book and hoping for more after that!

The Spice Isle Bakery and the Murray family are still recovering from their last brush with a murder investigation, when the unthinkable happens again: Lyndsay’s mother’s former boss collapses during a catered dinner in the restaurant’s dining room, and Lyndsay’s mother is suspected of murder.

Even though police detective Bryce is attractive, Lyndsay has no interest in him as long as he insists her mother is a person of interest. Lyndsay decides she’s going to clear her mother’s name to protect her mother and their business, both of which looks initially doubtful when people stay away immediately after the murder, and the police keep their sights on the family.

The more Lyndsay digs, the more she discovers about the character of the dead woman, and her professional relationships, all of which have been tainted by anger, manipulation and lies. Lyndsay discovers credible leads and narrows her suspect pool with her grandmother’s help, leading to the frightening reveal.

It’s pretty unlikely that a marketing professional struggling to keep her fledgling business alive would be such a good investigator, but that’s part of this cozy series’ appeal, as well as all the food that’s mentioned along the way. I look forward to Lyndsay’s next case.

Thank you to Netgalley and to St. Martin’s Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.