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Bridal Bouquet Shop Mystery #1
Bloom and Doom
As the co-owner of The Rose in Bloom, Audrey Bloom creates magnificent flower arrangements for brides to be. Though helping to plan a wedding can be stressful, it’s nothing compared to the groom turning up dead.
A designer of eye-catching bridal bouquets—many of them based on the Victorian meanings behind each flower—Audrey Bloom is used to celebrations that end with happily ever after. In fact, every couple she’s worked with is still together, living in wedded bliss. But her perfect record is about to be broken.
Her childhood friend Jenny Whitney has reeled in the most eligible bachelor in Ramble, Virginia, and she’s hired Audrey to design the bouquet. But before Jenny can walk down the aisle clutching her blend of anemone, scabious, and pussy willow (a floral disaster in Audrey’s mind), the groom is found dead—sprinkled with bits of a bouquet. This is bad for business—not to mention for Jenny, who has become the prime suspect. So Audrey decides to do a little digging herself, hoping she won’t be the next Ramble resident pushing up daisies…
A designer of eye-catching bridal bouquets—many of them based on the Victorian meanings behind each flower—Audrey Bloom is used to celebrations that end with happily ever after. In fact, every couple she’s worked with is still together, living in wedded bliss. But her perfect record is about to be broken.
Her childhood friend Jenny Whitney has reeled in the most eligible bachelor in Ramble, Virginia, and she’s hired Audrey to design the bouquet. But before Jenny can walk down the aisle clutching her blend of anemone, scabious, and pussy willow (a floral disaster in Audrey’s mind), the groom is found dead—sprinkled with bits of a bouquet. This is bad for business—not to mention for Jenny, who has become the prime suspect. So Audrey decides to do a little digging herself, hoping she won’t be the next Ramble resident pushing up daisies…
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 1, 2014
52 people are currently reading
1571 people want to read
About the author
Beverly Allen
4 books111 followersBeverly Allen is the author of Bloom and Doom, For Whom the Bluebell Tolls, and Floral Depravity, three books in the Bridal Bouquet Shop Mystery series from Berkley Prime Crime. Beverly is a pseudonym of Barbara Early, chosen because when she says “Barb Early” too quickly or in a noisy room, people hear “Beverly” anyway. She resides in Western New York state with her ever-patient husband and four naughty but adorable cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
February 11, 2014
BLOOM AND DOOM is the first book in A Bridal Bouquet Shop Mystery series by author Beverly Allen. I was privileged enough to read this story before the April 1, 2014 publication date. This book had me at the first page!
In meeting Audrey Bloom and Olivia “Liv” Rose, her cousin and co-owner of the Rose In Bloom florist shop in Ramble, Virginia, I immediately felt I was in the presence of dear friends. In getting to meet the other characters, several of which worked or helped out at the shop, I found myself wanting to work there as well and get to spend my days among the flowers and good company.
The entire story was fast paced and never lacking action. Some situations had me honestly laughing out loud due to the author’s witty humor and fun writing flare. I also found it informative as Ms. Allen had Audrey telling the meaning of the flowers she would use in her different arrangements.
As for the mystery aspect of this cozy, it was handled superbly. I was guessing until the very end as to who the murderer was. There was a bit of a “sub mystery” in the storyline as well. Something I feel the author intentionally made us forget about after it was mentioned, just so she could catch us off guard when it finally came to light. Well played Ms. Allen!
If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for new series that will become one of your go to favorites. Beverly Allen’s Bridal Bouquet Shop Mystery series is that series for me and I have no doubt it will be for you too. This one is sure to be a long running series indeed!
Lisa Ks Book Reviews
In meeting Audrey Bloom and Olivia “Liv” Rose, her cousin and co-owner of the Rose In Bloom florist shop in Ramble, Virginia, I immediately felt I was in the presence of dear friends. In getting to meet the other characters, several of which worked or helped out at the shop, I found myself wanting to work there as well and get to spend my days among the flowers and good company.
The entire story was fast paced and never lacking action. Some situations had me honestly laughing out loud due to the author’s witty humor and fun writing flare. I also found it informative as Ms. Allen had Audrey telling the meaning of the flowers she would use in her different arrangements.
As for the mystery aspect of this cozy, it was handled superbly. I was guessing until the very end as to who the murderer was. There was a bit of a “sub mystery” in the storyline as well. Something I feel the author intentionally made us forget about after it was mentioned, just so she could catch us off guard when it finally came to light. Well played Ms. Allen!
If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for new series that will become one of your go to favorites. Beverly Allen’s Bridal Bouquet Shop Mystery series is that series for me and I have no doubt it will be for you too. This one is sure to be a long running series indeed!
Lisa Ks Book Reviews
June 8, 2025
4.75 🌟
Mood Reader Season: Spring/Summer
Very funny! Gives you just enough clues to be able to solve it without being obvious for most of the book. I really enjoyed that.
Really want to find a copy of the sequel.
Mood Reader Season: Spring/Summer
Very funny! Gives you just enough clues to be able to solve it without being obvious for most of the book. I really enjoyed that.
Really want to find a copy of the sequel.
February 28, 2014
Audrey Bloom and her cousin, Liv, own and operate the Rose In Bloom flower shop. Audrey designs most of the bridal bouquets and flower arrangements. The different flowers 'speak' to Audrey and she chooses them according to their meanings as she arranges special orders for customers.
When an engaged playboy, Derek, is stabbed to death with a knife from the flower shop, Jenny, his fiancée, and a friend of Audrey's from high school, is arrested for his murder. She had just started working at the shop, and Audrey had loaned her some flower tools to practice with at home. Audrey believes Jenny is innocent.
In between long days and late nights spent making floral arrangements for Derek's funeral plus an upcoming society wedding, Audrey, Liz, Liz's husband, Eric, and the interesting cast of flower shop employees seek to find the killer thorn in the midst of all the beautiful blooms.
This first book in a brand new cozy mystery series is fast-paced, interesting, humorous at times, and altogether entertaining, with vivid descriptions. The author, Beverly Allen, definitely spent hours researching the meanings of flowers, and skillfully wove them together throughout the story.
There is much, much more to this story than I have revealed here to avoid spoilers. The identity of the killer was a surprise to me!!
I received a copy of this book for free from Net Galley and Penguin Group in return for an honest review.
When an engaged playboy, Derek, is stabbed to death with a knife from the flower shop, Jenny, his fiancée, and a friend of Audrey's from high school, is arrested for his murder. She had just started working at the shop, and Audrey had loaned her some flower tools to practice with at home. Audrey believes Jenny is innocent.
In between long days and late nights spent making floral arrangements for Derek's funeral plus an upcoming society wedding, Audrey, Liz, Liz's husband, Eric, and the interesting cast of flower shop employees seek to find the killer thorn in the midst of all the beautiful blooms.
This first book in a brand new cozy mystery series is fast-paced, interesting, humorous at times, and altogether entertaining, with vivid descriptions. The author, Beverly Allen, definitely spent hours researching the meanings of flowers, and skillfully wove them together throughout the story.
There is much, much more to this story than I have revealed here to avoid spoilers. The identity of the killer was a surprise to me!!
I received a copy of this book for free from Net Galley and Penguin Group in return for an honest review.
September 7, 2015
I had saved this cosy mystery because I wasn't sure that it would be my type. I was wrong. This story was told well and was actually quite intelligent, no ridiculous reactions from the characters, and what I liked best is Audrey (the main character) was busy with her job as she solved the mystery. She didn't spend a lot of time away from her shop running down clues (unless it had something to do with delivering flowere ect.).
I really liked the town and the people who lived there, and I am looking forwards to reading the next book in this series!
I really liked the town and the people who lived there, and I am looking forwards to reading the next book in this series!
January 16, 2016
Audrey’s creations are inspired by the language of flowers – their Victorian meanings. She is stunned to realize that every couple married with her flowers is still happily married, not one divorce in the bunch.
Unfortunately her childhood friend Jenny Whitney may break that record. She is set to marry the most eligible bacjelor in town but before she can even walk down the aisle with what Audrey calls a “floral disaster” (a blend of anemone, scabious, and pussy willow) the groom is found dead and Jenny is the prime suspect. Audrey decides to do a little digging on her own hoping her co-workers won’t be making floral arrangements for her funeral next.
Dollycas’s Thoughts
“Marriages and murder…flowers and felonies…cake and catastrophe”…what FUN!!!
Audrey is a treasure as is her cousin Olivia. The rest of the supporting cast is great too. I especially like Kane Bixby, police chief of Ramble, who like me is allergic to flowers, although I must say as I have aged my allergy has lessened so maybe there is hope for Kane. It was quite comical that he had to be surrounded by flowers for the entire investigation. Audrey’s interest in the Victorian meanings of the flowers was very appealing and added that little extra touch to the story.
Throughout the story The Rose in Bloom staff works extra hard to make the many flower arrangements for the funeral of groom who comes from a very important family and another high profile wedding. They even had to call in some extra reinforcements to help get everything done and delivered on time. It was crazy and I loved it!!
Allen also developed a strong mystery with plenty of suspects and twists that kept me guessing right up to the end.
Beverly Allen has found her cozy voice and this story is blooming awesome!! She has laid a great foundation for the series going forward.
Unfortunately her childhood friend Jenny Whitney may break that record. She is set to marry the most eligible bacjelor in town but before she can even walk down the aisle with what Audrey calls a “floral disaster” (a blend of anemone, scabious, and pussy willow) the groom is found dead and Jenny is the prime suspect. Audrey decides to do a little digging on her own hoping her co-workers won’t be making floral arrangements for her funeral next.
Dollycas’s Thoughts
“Marriages and murder…flowers and felonies…cake and catastrophe”…what FUN!!!
Audrey is a treasure as is her cousin Olivia. The rest of the supporting cast is great too. I especially like Kane Bixby, police chief of Ramble, who like me is allergic to flowers, although I must say as I have aged my allergy has lessened so maybe there is hope for Kane. It was quite comical that he had to be surrounded by flowers for the entire investigation. Audrey’s interest in the Victorian meanings of the flowers was very appealing and added that little extra touch to the story.
Throughout the story The Rose in Bloom staff works extra hard to make the many flower arrangements for the funeral of groom who comes from a very important family and another high profile wedding. They even had to call in some extra reinforcements to help get everything done and delivered on time. It was crazy and I loved it!!
Allen also developed a strong mystery with plenty of suspects and twists that kept me guessing right up to the end.
Beverly Allen has found her cozy voice and this story is blooming awesome!! She has laid a great foundation for the series going forward.
August 8, 2017
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August 26, 2014
Audrey Bloom and her cousin Liz are co-owners of a flower shop that specializes in bridal bouquets. Their latest client is Jenny, a childhood friend of Audrey's, who is marring the most eligible bachelor in the county. However, the morning after Jenny breaks off her engagement to Derek, Derek is found dead in his car with Jenny as the only suspect. Did she do it?
I loved the characters. They were charming and engaging right from the start, and I couldn't wait to read more. The plot did slow down a bit in the middle, but it picked up again for the ending. Tidbits on the meaning of flowers and some humor just added to the fun.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
I loved the characters. They were charming and engaging right from the start, and I couldn't wait to read more. The plot did slow down a bit in the middle, but it picked up again for the ending. Tidbits on the meaning of flowers and some humor just added to the fun.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
April 1, 2014
Beverly Allen brings readers the first book in a new series. Bloom and Doom is a cozy mystery with a Bridal theme. Readers have seen just about every profession they can imagine for their cozy protagonist's and now we have a great new series featuring a wedding florist. Allen uses a lot of interesting research facts including the meanings attributed to flowers to make this book ring true for cozy readers. She couples the happiness of wedded bliss with murder and comes up with a great book that readers will have a hard time putting down. A great new series!
What I liked:
I have always been one of those people who loves weddings. I've done just about everything for family and friends from baking and decorating the cake to setting up all the flowers. My one time dream job was to be a wedding coordinator, complete with a wedding venue and all, so this book really hit the spot for me. This is my first book from this author, but it definitely won't be my last. I enjoyed all of the wedding hulabaloo and thought it added a very interesting theme to the book. When the groom ends up dead at a wedding where Audrey Bloom has created the bouquet, that gives her a reason to be on the case. I thought the overall wedding atmosphere was a big plus for this series.
I was also genuinely interested in what each flower meant. I thought Allen did an amazing job of using the language of flowers in this novel. I enjoyed finding out what each one meant and found myself wondering about other flowers that were not mentioned. I am a huge crafter and use flowers a lot and I found this very interesting. I'm sure that a lot of readers will enjoy this aspect of the book as well.
The main protagonist for this series, Audrey Bloom was just a delight to read about. She lit up the pages. And even though cozies are essentially about murder, she made this one just as much about her life and her work as she did about the victim and the suspects. I enjoyed learning more about her and think that she will be a great lead character for this series. Allen portrays her as loving, capable and obsessed with flowers and there is certainly nothing wrong with that.
I thought the mystery aspects of the story flowed very well and kept the reader engaged. Allen was able to make each suspect appear to be the killer at one time or the other, without overwhelming the reader. There were a few red herrings and enough suspense to keep readers on edge, like any good cozy will do. I thought the killer ended up being unpredictable and that made it even better. Sometimes it's just too easy to figure it all out... not so with this one.
What I didn't like:
I can't say there was too much I didn't like about this one. It was well crafted. It had a great theme. The lead character was believable and easy to relate to. There just isn't much to criticize.
Bottom Line:
This is a great new cozy series with a lot of potential for future books. Allen uses flowers in a unique way in this book that I found very interesting. The language of flowers is now something I want to know more about, and that's a hallmark of a good writer. And the mystery was not an easy one to crack.
What I liked:
I have always been one of those people who loves weddings. I've done just about everything for family and friends from baking and decorating the cake to setting up all the flowers. My one time dream job was to be a wedding coordinator, complete with a wedding venue and all, so this book really hit the spot for me. This is my first book from this author, but it definitely won't be my last. I enjoyed all of the wedding hulabaloo and thought it added a very interesting theme to the book. When the groom ends up dead at a wedding where Audrey Bloom has created the bouquet, that gives her a reason to be on the case. I thought the overall wedding atmosphere was a big plus for this series.
I was also genuinely interested in what each flower meant. I thought Allen did an amazing job of using the language of flowers in this novel. I enjoyed finding out what each one meant and found myself wondering about other flowers that were not mentioned. I am a huge crafter and use flowers a lot and I found this very interesting. I'm sure that a lot of readers will enjoy this aspect of the book as well.
The main protagonist for this series, Audrey Bloom was just a delight to read about. She lit up the pages. And even though cozies are essentially about murder, she made this one just as much about her life and her work as she did about the victim and the suspects. I enjoyed learning more about her and think that she will be a great lead character for this series. Allen portrays her as loving, capable and obsessed with flowers and there is certainly nothing wrong with that.
I thought the mystery aspects of the story flowed very well and kept the reader engaged. Allen was able to make each suspect appear to be the killer at one time or the other, without overwhelming the reader. There were a few red herrings and enough suspense to keep readers on edge, like any good cozy will do. I thought the killer ended up being unpredictable and that made it even better. Sometimes it's just too easy to figure it all out... not so with this one.
What I didn't like:
I can't say there was too much I didn't like about this one. It was well crafted. It had a great theme. The lead character was believable and easy to relate to. There just isn't much to criticize.
Bottom Line:
This is a great new cozy series with a lot of potential for future books. Allen uses flowers in a unique way in this book that I found very interesting. The language of flowers is now something I want to know more about, and that's a hallmark of a good writer. And the mystery was not an easy one to crack.
March 30, 2014
It's all about flowers in Audrey Bloom?s bridal bouquet shop, Rose in Bloom and what I really loved about this first in a series was most of the plot took place in the bouquet shop and learning the meanings of each flower was a great because I didn't know different flowers had meanings. Audrey has made bouquets for many weddings with every couple still living together forever. But together forever is about to come crashing down .
Audrey?s ex - friend, Jenny Whitney is marrying Ramble Virginia's most eligible bachelor, Derek Rawling and she wants Audrey to create the bouquet for her nuptials. But to everyone?s shock and horror Derek is found dead stabbed with a knife from Rose in Bloom and a bouquet scattered around him. It is soon discovered that Derek has many secrets and is becoming quite the shady character and Derek;s fiancé, Jenny has becomes the prime suspect.
Audrey becomes torn as whether to help her ex-friend that gave up on her many years ago for a new life and new friends but Audrey decides to try to help Jenny to prove her innocence before she herself becomes planted in the ground. I was hooked by the first chapter, It has already become one of my favorite series, beautifully written and crafted with flowers being the main attraction. I?m in anticipation for the next book in this wonderful up and coming series.
Audrey?s ex - friend, Jenny Whitney is marrying Ramble Virginia's most eligible bachelor, Derek Rawling and she wants Audrey to create the bouquet for her nuptials. But to everyone?s shock and horror Derek is found dead stabbed with a knife from Rose in Bloom and a bouquet scattered around him. It is soon discovered that Derek has many secrets and is becoming quite the shady character and Derek;s fiancé, Jenny has becomes the prime suspect.
Audrey becomes torn as whether to help her ex-friend that gave up on her many years ago for a new life and new friends but Audrey decides to try to help Jenny to prove her innocence before she herself becomes planted in the ground. I was hooked by the first chapter, It has already become one of my favorite series, beautifully written and crafted with flowers being the main attraction. I?m in anticipation for the next book in this wonderful up and coming series.
January 27, 2018
I really enjoyed this story!! Audrey and her cousin Liv own The Rose in Bloom Florist Shop, specializing in weddings and bridal bouquets with an emphasis on the Victorian practice regarding the language of flowers. I was genuinely fascinated with all the floral information. I loved that the girls actually worked at their jobs (you don't always see that in cozies) and that they enjoyed their work. There were several characters and I liked all of them! Sometimes when starting a new series, I can get a little lost with all the different characters but in this story I settled right in as if I'd always been friends with everyone and always worked in their shop with them. The mystery was very good too and I was genuinely surprised by the villain. There were many times throughout the story when I literally laughed out loud, particularly during the graveside ceremony. The author's writing style is witty and creative, keeping my attention. I can't wait to read more in the series!
June 25, 2018
I don't know a lot about flowers and have never really been too interested in them but I'm really glad this was picked for a June book club discussion. I had been wanting to read it because I knew that even though I wasn't a big flower fan, it still had to be a good background for a mystery series and boy is it!
Audrey Bloom and her cousin Liv co-owned a florist shop in Ramble, Virginia that they had been running for five years. They were starting to get some interesting customers like the mayor's daughter who had a huge wedding planned. But one of the recent customers, a former childhood friend of Audrey's named Jenny, wasn't going through with her wedding. When her fiance' turned up stabbed to death in his car outside her apartment, of course Jenny was the prime suspect. Audrey felt an obligation to look into the case and with the help of handsome baker and business neighbor, Nick Maxwell, one night of sleuthing actually turned out fairly hilarious.
There was a little side mystery as well with the girls' longtime friend and flower grower, Larry. He was acting a little suspicious and not letting anyone into his newest greenhouse. At the same time, the police chief had been investigating some marijuana growing in the area.
Everything worked out great in the end with a pretty exciting showdown with the killer and a couple of people had some exciting news towards the end as well. The killer was a total surprise to me!
I love this author's writing style, with humor sprinkled throughout the book but not overdone. If it wasn't in actions, it was in the description of things told from Audrey's point of view and I found myself giggling more than once. The author is also known as Barbara Early so this makes me even more anxious to read her Vintage Toy Shop series!
Audrey Bloom and her cousin Liv co-owned a florist shop in Ramble, Virginia that they had been running for five years. They were starting to get some interesting customers like the mayor's daughter who had a huge wedding planned. But one of the recent customers, a former childhood friend of Audrey's named Jenny, wasn't going through with her wedding. When her fiance' turned up stabbed to death in his car outside her apartment, of course Jenny was the prime suspect. Audrey felt an obligation to look into the case and with the help of handsome baker and business neighbor, Nick Maxwell, one night of sleuthing actually turned out fairly hilarious.
There was a little side mystery as well with the girls' longtime friend and flower grower, Larry. He was acting a little suspicious and not letting anyone into his newest greenhouse. At the same time, the police chief had been investigating some marijuana growing in the area.
Everything worked out great in the end with a pretty exciting showdown with the killer and a couple of people had some exciting news towards the end as well. The killer was a total surprise to me!
I love this author's writing style, with humor sprinkled throughout the book but not overdone. If it wasn't in actions, it was in the description of things told from Audrey's point of view and I found myself giggling more than once. The author is also known as Barbara Early so this makes me even more anxious to read her Vintage Toy Shop series!
August 12, 2016
"Bloom and Doom" is a cozy mystery. I enjoyed the "language of flowers" theme. The characters were interesting and engaging. I liked the humor of many of the situations and that the heroine realized the humor of it. She could have been stressed-out and snappy, but this humor made her fun instead.
The mystery was a clue-based puzzle, and I was pretty sure of whodunit based on the clues. I wasn't certain until the last clue was found, though. Audrey was fairly logical and usually didn't break the law while exploring possible clues. I deeply appreciated that the author did her research on how the police--and jails and the law--really work. Jenny was a suspect because the evidence was pretty solid against her.
There was no bad language or sex. There was a brief, somewhat gory discussion, but it probably won't bother you if you watch detective shows or read non-cozy mysteries. Overall, I'd recommend this very enjoyable mystery.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
The mystery was a clue-based puzzle, and I was pretty sure of whodunit based on the clues. I wasn't certain until the last clue was found, though. Audrey was fairly logical and usually didn't break the law while exploring possible clues. I deeply appreciated that the author did her research on how the police--and jails and the law--really work. Jenny was a suspect because the evidence was pretty solid against her.
There was no bad language or sex. There was a brief, somewhat gory discussion, but it probably won't bother you if you watch detective shows or read non-cozy mysteries. Overall, I'd recommend this very enjoyable mystery.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
February 19, 2015
Rose in Bloom
Audrey and her cousin, Liv, own and operate Rose in Bloom, a small town florist shop located in their home town of Ramble. Audrey had built a reputation for her bridal flower arrangements. An old friend who had been planning her wedding just cancelled her floral arrangements, and admitted to Audrey that she was canceling the wedding and breaking up with her fiance. Soon after he was dead. Audrey starts her own investigation to clear her childhood friend of murder charges. This is a very fun cozy mystery. The friendship between the two cousins is great, the floral shop staff gave me a giggle or two, and the new baker in town provides a hint of romance. This is a nice, easy read, and I look forward to more in this series.
Audrey and her cousin, Liv, own and operate Rose in Bloom, a small town florist shop located in their home town of Ramble. Audrey had built a reputation for her bridal flower arrangements. An old friend who had been planning her wedding just cancelled her floral arrangements, and admitted to Audrey that she was canceling the wedding and breaking up with her fiance. Soon after he was dead. Audrey starts her own investigation to clear her childhood friend of murder charges. This is a very fun cozy mystery. The friendship between the two cousins is great, the floral shop staff gave me a giggle or two, and the new baker in town provides a hint of romance. This is a nice, easy read, and I look forward to more in this series.
March 31, 2014
This was a very enjoyable read. I really liked learning about flowers and their meanings, I never knew that flowers had meanings. This was also a great mystery that kept me guessing till the very end. The writing was superb and the story flowed really well. All the characters were likable and I look forward to reading more about these likable characters and this charming small town. This story also had some laugh-out-loud moments also, Audrey got herself into some silly situations. If you are looking for a great cozy that keeps you guessing and on the edge of your seat, then this is the story for you.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review.
January 28, 2015
What a fun, adorable read. I was recommended this book by a new acquaintance. It's been awhile since I had dived into a cozy. When I worked at Borders, I read them a lot.
I am so glad I grabbed this book. I absolutely adored Audrey and her cousin Liv. They are co-owners of The Rose in Boom. I also love flowers and weddings, great combo. And sadly...funerals.
I cannot wait to see what's next for Audrey and the sexy new baker Nick. And Liv and her husband Eric dropped some exciting news too. If you love to read light mysteries...this is for you. What a blast!!!!
I am so glad I grabbed this book. I absolutely adored Audrey and her cousin Liv. They are co-owners of The Rose in Boom. I also love flowers and weddings, great combo. And sadly...funerals.
I cannot wait to see what's next for Audrey and the sexy new baker Nick. And Liv and her husband Eric dropped some exciting news too. If you love to read light mysteries...this is for you. What a blast!!!!
December 1, 2014
Excellent first cozy! Loved all the characters and the setting. Good mix of humor with a little dash of romance and of course mystery!
November 4, 2014
Audrey is co-owner and florist of the Rose In Bloom in the small-town of Ramble, Virginia. She specializes in bridal bouquets where she is able to put her knowledge of Victorian flower meanings to work. None of the couples she has worked with have split up, that is until the groom of her current client turns up dead, and the bride is the prime suspect.
Jenny, the bride-to-be, was one of Audrey's closest friends when they were growing up until Jenny kicked her to the curb for different set of friends, but Jenny and her mother come to Audrey to design the floral arrangements for the wedding. Audrey's of the opinion that the flowers they want in the bouquet wouldn't make a good combination in regards to flower meanings, but nevertheless she agrees to work with them. Jenny's groom-to-be is Derek Rawling, Ramble's rich playboy (think George Clooney circa O Brother, Where Art Thou) and it's very strange for Audrey to consider that her friend somehow reeled in a guy like him. Unfortunately, Derek dies a horrible bloody death before they can walk down the aisle. He's found in his sportscar which is parked outside of Jenny's apartment along with a shredded bouquet and a floral knife sticking out of his neck. Obviously, things don't look good for Jenny as it's right outside her apartment, she had just broken up with Derek, and she just started taking floral arrangement lessons from Audrey who had given her the floral knife and other tools to practice at home. Things really don't look good for Jenny, but is she guilty or is there something else going on? If you guessed "something else," you would most definitely be right. This is not in the least an open and shut case.
Now, Bloom and Doom isn't my go-to choice when it comes to mystery books. Usually, I prefer mine to be gritty, hard-boiled, and noir-ish. A caper mystery can also be fun, if done the right way. I also love reading a good urban fantasy novel like The Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher. I tend not to read all that many cozy mysteries as they're not really my thing. The main reason I'm reading this is that it's the selection for a book club. I did enjoy this read, but I doubt I'll be rereading it or returning for the rest of the series.
The main thing that makes Bloom and Doom work for me is Audrey's voice. Since it's in first person narrative, the narrator's voice can make or break the story and in this case she made it. I'm glad she has a good sense of humor and her thought process can be entertaining, for the most part. The story is chock full of various references and some of them worked surprisingly well (did you catch The Hunger Games one on page 245?). I'm glad her character is pretty open-minded and that she doesn't go looking for trouble, even if that doesn't work out so well.
For the most part, Audrey seems like a real person because she's well-rounded and relatable - kind of our florist every-girl, isn't she. She's not over the top, but she makes sure to bring her cleverness to the table. For the most part, the same goes for Liv, Audrey's cousin, although, we don't get as good of a sense of her character in comparison to Audrey. The one character that just plain bored me is Amber Lee. I mean, she's nice enough but I just didn't care all that much about her, aside from the fact that she dispenses important information (aka gossip) from time to time. As for Nick, Audrey's potential love interest, he just seems like quite a nice guy. Who doesn't like cupcakes and other delicious baked goods? The two seem like they could make a good pair. However, there is an aspect of their "relationship" that gets old fast - keep in mind it only happens twice - is the part where he catches her when she trips and/or falls. Only having that in the story once, or even better zero times, would have been much more acceptable. Same goes for some of the embarrassing things that happen to Audrey over the course of the story (see: Little Joe's dancing on pages 184-186). As it is, sometimes I just don't know how much harder I could have rolled my eyes...
On to the mystery itself, it's good and I like the fact that it is anything but straightforward. I appreciated the fact that the clues are slowly doled out. The build-up and pacing of the mystery are both good, especially when it comes down to the wire. As to the big reveal, I had the villain pegged from the time they first popped up and from there it was just taking the information given to us to see if it fit. At some points, things are a just a tad obvious. I wasn't off by much at all!
Overall, I enjoyed this cozy mystery much more than I initially expected to enjoy it and that mostly goes back to Audrey's strengths as a character. If you're relatively new to this genre, or subgenre, this would be a good place to jump into it, especially if you like flowers and a clever leading lady.
Jenny, the bride-to-be, was one of Audrey's closest friends when they were growing up until Jenny kicked her to the curb for different set of friends, but Jenny and her mother come to Audrey to design the floral arrangements for the wedding. Audrey's of the opinion that the flowers they want in the bouquet wouldn't make a good combination in regards to flower meanings, but nevertheless she agrees to work with them. Jenny's groom-to-be is Derek Rawling, Ramble's rich playboy (think George Clooney circa O Brother, Where Art Thou) and it's very strange for Audrey to consider that her friend somehow reeled in a guy like him. Unfortunately, Derek dies a horrible bloody death before they can walk down the aisle. He's found in his sportscar which is parked outside of Jenny's apartment along with a shredded bouquet and a floral knife sticking out of his neck. Obviously, things don't look good for Jenny as it's right outside her apartment, she had just broken up with Derek, and she just started taking floral arrangement lessons from Audrey who had given her the floral knife and other tools to practice at home. Things really don't look good for Jenny, but is she guilty or is there something else going on? If you guessed "something else," you would most definitely be right. This is not in the least an open and shut case.
Now, Bloom and Doom isn't my go-to choice when it comes to mystery books. Usually, I prefer mine to be gritty, hard-boiled, and noir-ish. A caper mystery can also be fun, if done the right way. I also love reading a good urban fantasy novel like The Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher. I tend not to read all that many cozy mysteries as they're not really my thing. The main reason I'm reading this is that it's the selection for a book club. I did enjoy this read, but I doubt I'll be rereading it or returning for the rest of the series.
The main thing that makes Bloom and Doom work for me is Audrey's voice. Since it's in first person narrative, the narrator's voice can make or break the story and in this case she made it. I'm glad she has a good sense of humor and her thought process can be entertaining, for the most part. The story is chock full of various references and some of them worked surprisingly well (did you catch The Hunger Games one on page 245?). I'm glad her character is pretty open-minded and that she doesn't go looking for trouble, even if that doesn't work out so well.
For the most part, Audrey seems like a real person because she's well-rounded and relatable - kind of our florist every-girl, isn't she. She's not over the top, but she makes sure to bring her cleverness to the table. For the most part, the same goes for Liv, Audrey's cousin, although, we don't get as good of a sense of her character in comparison to Audrey. The one character that just plain bored me is Amber Lee. I mean, she's nice enough but I just didn't care all that much about her, aside from the fact that she dispenses important information (aka gossip) from time to time. As for Nick, Audrey's potential love interest, he just seems like quite a nice guy. Who doesn't like cupcakes and other delicious baked goods? The two seem like they could make a good pair. However, there is an aspect of their "relationship" that gets old fast - keep in mind it only happens twice - is the part where he catches her when she trips and/or falls. Only having that in the story once, or even better zero times, would have been much more acceptable. Same goes for some of the embarrassing things that happen to Audrey over the course of the story (see: Little Joe's dancing on pages 184-186). As it is, sometimes I just don't know how much harder I could have rolled my eyes...
On to the mystery itself, it's good and I like the fact that it is anything but straightforward. I appreciated the fact that the clues are slowly doled out. The build-up and pacing of the mystery are both good, especially when it comes down to the wire. As to the big reveal, I had the villain pegged from the time they first popped up and from there it was just taking the information given to us to see if it fit. At some points, things are a just a tad obvious. I wasn't off by much at all!
Overall, I enjoyed this cozy mystery much more than I initially expected to enjoy it and that mostly goes back to Audrey's strengths as a character. If you're relatively new to this genre, or subgenre, this would be a good place to jump into it, especially if you like flowers and a clever leading lady.
September 17, 2018
A very enjoyable cozy mystery set in Ramble, Virginia. The main character is Audrey Bloom who owns a florist shop with her cousin, Liv. Audrey designs her wedding bouquets using the meaning behind the flowers. When a former friend is accused of murder, Audrey know she must help. The secondary characters seem a real and friendly bunch of people. The book was a quick easy read.
April 3, 2020
Audrey Bloom - Mandy Moore
Liv Rose - Renee Felice Smith
Nick Maxwell - Tom Pelphrey
Amber Lee - Alfre Woodard
Ellen Whitney - Dawn French
Jenny Whitney - Jena Malone
Eric - Elijah Wood
Chief Kane Bixby - Kevin Sorbo
Sarah Anderson - Emily Wickersham
Shelby - Joe Keery
Darnell - Ross Butler
Liv Rose - Renee Felice Smith
Nick Maxwell - Tom Pelphrey
Amber Lee - Alfre Woodard
Ellen Whitney - Dawn French
Jenny Whitney - Jena Malone
Eric - Elijah Wood
Chief Kane Bixby - Kevin Sorbo
Sarah Anderson - Emily Wickersham
Shelby - Joe Keery
Darnell - Ross Butler
June 27, 2021
Liv and Audrey own a floral shop and are the go-to place in Ramble. Audrey's old friend, Jenny, comes in with her mother to arrange the flowers for her wedding to Derek Rawlings, son of the socially prominent family of Ramble. Jenny comes back later to tell Audrey the wedding is cancelled. Later that night Derek is found dead. Now Audrey must find out who did or Jenny could face life in prison.
I enjoyed this story. The world building is good. The story drags as the beginning but there is more action after the murder so it picks up. I only could remember who the killer was when I realized I had read this before--before I used Goodreads.
I liked the characters. Some of the secondary characters will be recurring ones. Others are one and done. I like the way the recurring characters have created a family for themselves. I appreciated how none of them wanted to listen to gossip but it was necessary to find the killer. I hope I can get the other books in the series.
I enjoyed this story. The world building is good. The story drags as the beginning but there is more action after the murder so it picks up. I only could remember who the killer was when I realized I had read this before--before I used Goodreads.
I liked the characters. Some of the secondary characters will be recurring ones. Others are one and done. I like the way the recurring characters have created a family for themselves. I appreciated how none of them wanted to listen to gossip but it was necessary to find the killer. I hope I can get the other books in the series.
January 12, 2025
Loved it
I loved getting to know all the wonderful characters in this book. The story grabbed me from the beginning and I was hooked until the end. I enjoyed how the author of incorporated the meaning behind the flowers she used, it was a sweet twist.
I loved getting to know all the wonderful characters in this book. The story grabbed me from the beginning and I was hooked until the end. I enjoyed how the author of incorporated the meaning behind the flowers she used, it was a sweet twist.
January 18, 2015
“Anemones, Enemies and Other Assorted Blossoms”
The first book in “A Bridal Bouquet Shop Mystery Series” takes us to Ramble, Virginia and the “Rose in Bloom” Flower Shop, owned by Cousins, Audrey Bloom and Olivia Rose. The shop specializes in unique bridal bouquets—basing the collaboration of blossoms not only on the Bride’s favorites, but ones which have special meanings according to the Victorian Language of Flowers. The shop’s exquisite wedding designs are to be the focus of a feature article in Ramble’s newspaper, “Ramble On” as well as the unbelievable success rate of marriages where the Bridal couple had engaged the services of the well-known company. One of the Brides happens to be a former Jr. High friend of Audrey’s, named Jenny Whitney, who is marrying Ramble’s most eligible bachelor, Derek Rawling. Jenny’s Mother seems to be extremely pushy from the engagement to the wedding plans. Does Jenny really want to marry Derek? When she shows up at the shop to cancel the wedding flower order and intends to look for another part-time job, Audrey puts old, hurt feelings aside, says she’ll give her a chance, and gives her all of the materials so she can practice recreating a bouquet—including one of the shop’s new knives bearing their logo. Imagine their horror when Liv relays the shocking news that her Husband, Eric discovered Derek’s blood-soaked, lifeless body in his sports car—along with the bouquet and knife Audrey had given to Jenny! The evidence is pretty damning, considering Jenny had just broken up with Derek. Was there a heated argument between Jenny and Derek that led to his demise? Jenny is on the top of the suspect list, but Audrey can’t believe she would commit such an atrocity. Was Jenny’s demeanor all a “Southern Lady Act”? Audrey decides to do some sleuthing herself—with the help of Liv and the Police Chief’s Receptionist, Mrs. June. To complicate things, Police Chief Kane Bixby is extremely (and often times comically) allergic to flowers and is not a tad bit happy about Audrey’s investigation. Could blackmail have triggered the murder? Who is “Bunny”? What is laid back grower/delivery man Larry hiding in his new greenhouse? Cozy lovers will enjoy this first of a new series. I mistakenly read the second book in the series first and can say that it is easy to become acquainted with the various colorful characters, while each mystery stands alone. You’ll want to read about more of the antics of Audrey and Liv and their talented floral crew (Retired Schoolteacher Amber Lee, Shelby and fellow students, Opie and Melanie, and Darnell and his floral line-up of football players), plus handsome baker, Nick Maxwell, and Liv’s doting Husband, Eric. The Author has graciously included a snippet of Book Two, “ For Whom the Bluebell Tolls” which you won’t want to miss. Be sure to place these titles on the top of your “Cozy List”—a true breath of peach rose-scented air awaits you!
Nancy Narma
February 8, 2023
http://openbooksociety.com/article/bl...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Some spoilers…but I did try to keep the spoilers away:)
I want to say first off, I like reading cozy mysteries. They make me think while reading, in a good way. A really good cozy mystery keeps the reader guessing until the very end. This book accomplished that! This is the first novel by Beverly Allen that I have read (and in fact the first she has written in this wedding themed series). I must say that I have now found a new cozy writer that has caught my reading interest so much, I want her to hurry up and write more in the series so I can continue on with Audrey’s sleuthing life.
Audrey is a likeable, intelligent and hardworking business owner in business with her cousin Liz. I found the characterization of Audrey as a “regular” person, which is all too often not the case. Thus in my mind, Audrey was relatable. Audrey and Liz, along with Liz’s husband, Eric and various other flower shop employees, set about the task of preparing the arrangements for Derrick’s funeral as well as a society wedding. And of course – solving the mystery of who killed Derrick. Audrey is not at all convinced that the fiancée (Jenny – her old time best buddy and newest employee at the shop) did indeed kill Derrick.
As we quickly learn, not all is as it seems in Ramble. I really enjoyed the methodical way Audrey went through the cast of characters in this small town and one by one, narrowed down the suspects until the end when the real killer was identified (a surprise to me). I have left out quite a bit of the story, so as to avoid spoilers.
I really enjoyed reading about the discussions regarding the meanings of the flowers and foliage. This brought a certain amount of depth to the story, which was a pleasant surprise. I giggled immensely at the wedding when Audrey dances with Little Joe, the mad mortician. This is because mayhem ensues … you will chuckle as well, of that I am certain.
We were introduced to a possible love interest for Audrey, the cupcake baker Nick Maxwell. This romance should provide some intrigue and we will just have to wait and see how this plays out in future books.
I must say … there is not much I do not like about this book. It was well written, an enjoyable cozy read which kept me guessing until the end. I look forward to the continuation of this series.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free review copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Some spoilers…but I did try to keep the spoilers away:)
I want to say first off, I like reading cozy mysteries. They make me think while reading, in a good way. A really good cozy mystery keeps the reader guessing until the very end. This book accomplished that! This is the first novel by Beverly Allen that I have read (and in fact the first she has written in this wedding themed series). I must say that I have now found a new cozy writer that has caught my reading interest so much, I want her to hurry up and write more in the series so I can continue on with Audrey’s sleuthing life.
Audrey is a likeable, intelligent and hardworking business owner in business with her cousin Liz. I found the characterization of Audrey as a “regular” person, which is all too often not the case. Thus in my mind, Audrey was relatable. Audrey and Liz, along with Liz’s husband, Eric and various other flower shop employees, set about the task of preparing the arrangements for Derrick’s funeral as well as a society wedding. And of course – solving the mystery of who killed Derrick. Audrey is not at all convinced that the fiancée (Jenny – her old time best buddy and newest employee at the shop) did indeed kill Derrick.
As we quickly learn, not all is as it seems in Ramble. I really enjoyed the methodical way Audrey went through the cast of characters in this small town and one by one, narrowed down the suspects until the end when the real killer was identified (a surprise to me). I have left out quite a bit of the story, so as to avoid spoilers.
I really enjoyed reading about the discussions regarding the meanings of the flowers and foliage. This brought a certain amount of depth to the story, which was a pleasant surprise. I giggled immensely at the wedding when Audrey dances with Little Joe, the mad mortician. This is because mayhem ensues … you will chuckle as well, of that I am certain.
We were introduced to a possible love interest for Audrey, the cupcake baker Nick Maxwell. This romance should provide some intrigue and we will just have to wait and see how this plays out in future books.
I must say … there is not much I do not like about this book. It was well written, an enjoyable cozy read which kept me guessing until the end. I look forward to the continuation of this series.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free review copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
July 27, 2015
SUMMARY: As the co-owner of The Rose in Bloom, Audrey Bloom creates magnificent flower arrangements for brides to be. Though helping to plan a wedding can be stressful, it’s nothing compared to the groom turning up dead.
A designer of eye-catching bridal bouquets—many of them based on the Victorian meanings behind each flower—Audrey Bloom is used to celebrations that end with happily ever after. In fact, every couple she’s worked with is still together, living in wedded bliss. But her perfect record is about to be broken.
Her childhood friend Jenny Whitney has reeled in the most eligible bachelor in Ramble, Virginia, and she’s hired Audrey to design the bouquet. But before Jenny can walk down the aisle clutching her blend of anemone, scabious, and pussy willow (a floral disaster in Audrey’s mind), the groom is found dead—sprinkled with bits of a bouquet. This is bad for business—not to mention for Jenny, who has become the prime suspect. So Audrey decides to do a little digging herself, hoping she won’t be the next Ramble resident pushing up daisies…
REVIEW: This is a debut book in this series, and I definitely liked it. A cozy mystery with a bridal theme, it is filled with a good plot with lots of twists, turns, and red herrings as well as humor and romance. I particularly liked the inclusion of what each of the flowers stood for as developed for a way of communicating during the Victorian era. The story is fast paced with lots of action and plenty of vivid descriptions. The variety of characters each with their own unique personality added to the storyline, and the small town setting of Ramble Virginia was perfect for a cozy mystery. I predict this will be a long running series for this author and look forward to reading the next in the series
.
A designer of eye-catching bridal bouquets—many of them based on the Victorian meanings behind each flower—Audrey Bloom is used to celebrations that end with happily ever after. In fact, every couple she’s worked with is still together, living in wedded bliss. But her perfect record is about to be broken.
Her childhood friend Jenny Whitney has reeled in the most eligible bachelor in Ramble, Virginia, and she’s hired Audrey to design the bouquet. But before Jenny can walk down the aisle clutching her blend of anemone, scabious, and pussy willow (a floral disaster in Audrey’s mind), the groom is found dead—sprinkled with bits of a bouquet. This is bad for business—not to mention for Jenny, who has become the prime suspect. So Audrey decides to do a little digging herself, hoping she won’t be the next Ramble resident pushing up daisies…
REVIEW: This is a debut book in this series, and I definitely liked it. A cozy mystery with a bridal theme, it is filled with a good plot with lots of twists, turns, and red herrings as well as humor and romance. I particularly liked the inclusion of what each of the flowers stood for as developed for a way of communicating during the Victorian era. The story is fast paced with lots of action and plenty of vivid descriptions. The variety of characters each with their own unique personality added to the storyline, and the small town setting of Ramble Virginia was perfect for a cozy mystery. I predict this will be a long running series for this author and look forward to reading the next in the series
.
November 26, 2016
Two cousins have opened a flower shop in a small town called Ramble in Virginia. Liv does the books and is all bottom line and happily married so of course she is always trying to be a matchmaker. Audrey is the designer but what makes her special is that she knows the meaning of each flower and can produce arrangements and bridal bouquets that have kept the couples together. In other words she speaks the language of flowers.
When the son of the town's bigwig and fiance to Audrey's former friend Jenny, turns up dead in his car just after Jenny has canceled the wedding, she seems the only viable suspect.
The characters are so well developed and the town so well described that once I started reading I was in Ramble.
When the murder occurs for once I didn't have the slightest idea who might be involved. As the storyline develops and the is no clear front runner and the suspect arrested just doesn't seem right.
It wasn't until the very end that I finally figured it out. There were a few minor sub-plots which are always fun and I did have a real laugh out loud moment when picturing a dance at a wedding. The only thing I did figure out early on was the baker and his visits.
This series is a definite keeper.
When the son of the town's bigwig and fiance to Audrey's former friend Jenny, turns up dead in his car just after Jenny has canceled the wedding, she seems the only viable suspect.
The characters are so well developed and the town so well described that once I started reading I was in Ramble.
When the murder occurs for once I didn't have the slightest idea who might be involved. As the storyline develops and the is no clear front runner and the suspect arrested just doesn't seem right.
It wasn't until the very end that I finally figured it out. There were a few minor sub-plots which are always fun and I did have a real laugh out loud moment when picturing a dance at a wedding. The only thing I did figure out early on was the baker and his visits.
This series is a definite keeper.
July 23, 2014
Weddings are big business these days. And one part of the bridal business that’s positively blooming is flowers. Bouquets, centerpieces, sprays, and decorations, you name it.
If you don’t believe me, check out “Bloom and Doom,” the first in the Bridal Bouquet Shop mystery series by Beverly Allen.
As the co-owner of The Rose in Bloom with her cousin Liv, Audrey Bloom creates magnificent wedding arrangements. So when her childhood friend Jenny Whitney hires Audrey to do the floral designs for her upcoming wedding, Audrey is happy to oblige, despite the fact that Jenny’s pushy mother seems to have more to say about the wedding details than the bride. But before Jenny can walk down the aisle, the groom is found dead, sprinkled with the bits of a bridal bouquet. And Jenny is arrested for his murder.
“Bloom and Doom” is a terrific start to a new series, and includes information on “flower speak” that I never knew.
Reviewed by Susan Santangelo, author of “Class Reunions Can Be Murder”
If you don’t believe me, check out “Bloom and Doom,” the first in the Bridal Bouquet Shop mystery series by Beverly Allen.
As the co-owner of The Rose in Bloom with her cousin Liv, Audrey Bloom creates magnificent wedding arrangements. So when her childhood friend Jenny Whitney hires Audrey to do the floral designs for her upcoming wedding, Audrey is happy to oblige, despite the fact that Jenny’s pushy mother seems to have more to say about the wedding details than the bride. But before Jenny can walk down the aisle, the groom is found dead, sprinkled with the bits of a bridal bouquet. And Jenny is arrested for his murder.
“Bloom and Doom” is a terrific start to a new series, and includes information on “flower speak” that I never knew.
Reviewed by Susan Santangelo, author of “Class Reunions Can Be Murder”
May 28, 2014
Bloom and Doom is a very sweet sort of book. It's entertaining and makes the reader feel as if they are part of the "family".
It's set in a small in Virgina where two cousins own and work a flower shop. I must admit that Ms.Allen either did a lot of research into what a flower really is, or she owned or worked in a flower shop. The dilemmas and work that happens in this trade are just as she portrays it.
I's a book that could be read in a day or two and is pleasant paired with a breezy, warm day on the front porch and a glass of lemonade.
This is the first in her new series, A Bridal Bouquet Shop Mystery. I look forward to her next book.
It's set in a small in Virgina where two cousins own and work a flower shop. I must admit that Ms.Allen either did a lot of research into what a flower really is, or she owned or worked in a flower shop. The dilemmas and work that happens in this trade are just as she portrays it.
I's a book that could be read in a day or two and is pleasant paired with a breezy, warm day on the front porch and a glass of lemonade.
This is the first in her new series, A Bridal Bouquet Shop Mystery. I look forward to her next book.
August 1, 2015
I literally judged this book by the cover. It's so appealing and made me want to go out and get a bouquet. Then I was happy I picked it up because I liked the premise...flowers, weddings and small towns, a good combination to a comfy read. This first book did not disappoint. Bloom and Doom was fun, informative and fast paced even if a wedding florist is a relatively new heroine for cozies. The clue-based mystery was well written and kept me guessing and I enjoyed learning about the language of flowers. Walking into the shop, the characters felt like old friends and I look forward their reappearance as the story progresses. Interested in continuing this series.
January 30, 2015
I read many great reviews on this book and they were right. I thoroughly enjoyed this first of the series. Audrey is so likeable as is her cousin Liv. The side characters were realistic people that you feel you run into everyday. I found the meaning behind flowers interesting, and the humor in this book gave me many, many laugh out loud moments, and I love a book that can do that. The mystery was great with plenty of twists to keep you guessing. I will definitely continue on with this series as it has quickly jumped to one of my favorites.
October 31, 2018
This was a fun, light mystery. I liked how there seemed to be a bit of levity in the book with Audrey's penguin fiasco, etc. while still having the underlying severity of the murder investigation. It isn't a story I would seek out, but it would be perfect for a vacation read. There were a few plot points and characters that weren't really expanded upon, but I think these things will come further down the line in the series.
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