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A Callie's Kitchen Mystery #1
On the Chopping Block
Building a small business has been murder, but Callie Costas didn’t expect to be confronted with an actual body. The 36-year-old Greek-American proprietor of “Callie's Kitchen,” a meals-from-scratch business in an idyllic small town, has been busy creating a post-divorce life for herself, her young daughter and her Yorkie, Koukla. After a lot of hard work (including staving off her father’s continual advice), she’s got the locals and tourists clamoring for her delicious Mediterranean dishes and Midwest comfort food classics. Recently, she’s started a budding romance with a fellow foodie, the wealthy owner and chef of Crystal Bay’s most popular bistro.
However, success is as fleeting as one of Wisconsin’s glorious autumn days. As local businesses begin to shut down due to a slow economy, Callie is struggling not to become another statistic. A contest with a hefty cash prize seems like the perfect chance to fix her financial woes, until a shocking murder threatens not only her livelihood – but her life.
When she’s targeted as a prime suspect by an attractive expat British detective, Callie’s situation becomes more delicate than her Greek egg-lemon soup. She’s got to find the killer and fast if she wants to protect her daughter, save her business and stay alive.
However, success is as fleeting as one of Wisconsin’s glorious autumn days. As local businesses begin to shut down due to a slow economy, Callie is struggling not to become another statistic. A contest with a hefty cash prize seems like the perfect chance to fix her financial woes, until a shocking murder threatens not only her livelihood – but her life.
When she’s targeted as a prime suspect by an attractive expat British detective, Callie’s situation becomes more delicate than her Greek egg-lemon soup. She’s got to find the killer and fast if she wants to protect her daughter, save her business and stay alive.
272 pages, ebook
First published May 24, 2016
301 people are currently reading
1192 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Kales
8 books283 followersJenny Kales is the author of The Callie's Kitchen Mystery series.
Kales is an avid reader, cook and baker and she's addicted to mystery TV, especially anything on Masterpiece Mystery or BBC America. She lives in the Midwest, is the mother of two beautiful daughters, and is hard at work on her next book, including a new mystery series and other projects.
You can follow her on Facebook at Jenny Kales Author and on Instagram at Jenny Kales_Author.
Kales is an avid reader, cook and baker and she's addicted to mystery TV, especially anything on Masterpiece Mystery or BBC America. She lives in the Midwest, is the mother of two beautiful daughters, and is hard at work on her next book, including a new mystery series and other projects.
You can follow her on Facebook at Jenny Kales Author and on Instagram at Jenny Kales_Author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
April 6, 2021
Callie has a diner that serves Greek foods. She has a 10 year old daughter Olivia and girl if Koukla. In book 1 her boyfriend Drew and Callow were in a contest Taste of Crystal Bay. The winner get 10,000. Drew wins and asked Callie to come to his house to celebrate. But Callie finds him dead. Then Callie is a suspect. This is an alright book. It might read the 2nd book.
August 20, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
As soon as I saw this book was set in Wisconsin I added it to my reading list. I also love watching the show Chopped in all its forms on the Food Network, so knowing a Chopped type competition was a catalyst in this story didn’t hurt either. I wish the actual contest had been part of the story.
Callie Costas was raised by her father and was expected to take over his restaurant when he retired, but she decided to venture out on her own and open “Callie’s Kitchen”. Her business was doing o.k. but if she had won the local Chopped Challenge she would have been able to add more staff and upgrade a few things. Her divorce was amicable for the most part, and her daughter is growing up fast. She also has a little Yorkie to snuggle with, but maybe it was time to start dating and find a man to snuggle up with. Enter Drew, another restaurant owner, and winner of the Chopped contest. They finally have time for a real date – at his house – with him cooking her dinner – to celebrate his win. She never thought the night would be ruined by a murder and her being in a detective’s sights as a prime suspect. Before anyone else gets CHOPPED, including herself, she is going to start her own search for the killer.
This was a fun read for me on so many levels. My parents used to run a restaurant much like Callie’s and the first thing I noticed was that girl needs more staff, especially if she is going to leave so much on her “errands”. Max is a great worker but they are going to burn themselves out quickly. The food they make, especially the little coffee cakes, almost had me drooling all over my Kindle.
The characters were all very realistic. Even Detective Sands with his yummy British accent. Callie is surrounded by people that love her and want her to succeed even as her business dwindles because she is suspected of murder. I really like that she is a woman my age and following her dreams. All of the characters are very well developed and engaging but I know there is so much more to tell. I want to get to know them better.
Wisconsin is beautiful in the fall and fictional Crystal Bay, said to somewhere in the Lake Geneva area, is wonderfully portrayed. The leaves changing their color, the weather getting cooler, a time that is already getting to close to happening in real life here this year. I am a summer girl at heart.
The mystery went in a whole different direction that I had not expected and when I saw where it was headed I thought I had it pinned down to one or two individuals. It all came together for me before it did for Callie, but that big climatic scene when she figured it out had me on the edge of my seat. After that story ended by putting a huge smile on my face.
This series is off to an excellent start. While I hate to see the crime rate of Crystal Bay rise, I can’t wait to return there for another visit soon.
As soon as I saw this book was set in Wisconsin I added it to my reading list. I also love watching the show Chopped in all its forms on the Food Network, so knowing a Chopped type competition was a catalyst in this story didn’t hurt either. I wish the actual contest had been part of the story.
Callie Costas was raised by her father and was expected to take over his restaurant when he retired, but she decided to venture out on her own and open “Callie’s Kitchen”. Her business was doing o.k. but if she had won the local Chopped Challenge she would have been able to add more staff and upgrade a few things. Her divorce was amicable for the most part, and her daughter is growing up fast. She also has a little Yorkie to snuggle with, but maybe it was time to start dating and find a man to snuggle up with. Enter Drew, another restaurant owner, and winner of the Chopped contest. They finally have time for a real date – at his house – with him cooking her dinner – to celebrate his win. She never thought the night would be ruined by a murder and her being in a detective’s sights as a prime suspect. Before anyone else gets CHOPPED, including herself, she is going to start her own search for the killer.
This was a fun read for me on so many levels. My parents used to run a restaurant much like Callie’s and the first thing I noticed was that girl needs more staff, especially if she is going to leave so much on her “errands”. Max is a great worker but they are going to burn themselves out quickly. The food they make, especially the little coffee cakes, almost had me drooling all over my Kindle.
The characters were all very realistic. Even Detective Sands with his yummy British accent. Callie is surrounded by people that love her and want her to succeed even as her business dwindles because she is suspected of murder. I really like that she is a woman my age and following her dreams. All of the characters are very well developed and engaging but I know there is so much more to tell. I want to get to know them better.
Wisconsin is beautiful in the fall and fictional Crystal Bay, said to somewhere in the Lake Geneva area, is wonderfully portrayed. The leaves changing their color, the weather getting cooler, a time that is already getting to close to happening in real life here this year. I am a summer girl at heart.
The mystery went in a whole different direction that I had not expected and when I saw where it was headed I thought I had it pinned down to one or two individuals. It all came together for me before it did for Callie, but that big climatic scene when she figured it out had me on the edge of my seat. After that story ended by putting a huge smile on my face.
This series is off to an excellent start. While I hate to see the crime rate of Crystal Bay rise, I can’t wait to return there for another visit soon.
May 2, 2016
When her chef boyfriend is found murdered in his sprawling home, divorced mom and restaurateur Calliope "Callie" Costas must juggle a bustling eatery, an overprotective father, and a handsome detective to prove that she’s not a killer. The story flowed as smoothly as honey, and each character was engaging and unique. Grandma Viv, Callie’s bubbly cohort, was one of my particular favorites. The pacing was superb, with tidbits of information—like sugary warm loukamades—sprinkled judiciously throughout the book. The ending was a shocker, and intensely satisfying. Throughout the book I kept craving Greek cuisine, and was pleased to see that the author included some scrumptious-looking recipes at the end.
Author Jenny Kales has created a delectable new culinary series. I hope to see many more installments in the future!
Author Jenny Kales has created a delectable new culinary series. I hope to see many more installments in the future!
October 6, 2024
I adored this book. Such a good cozy mystery. It was a fun and quick read. I don’t know what it was that hooked me so much but I was sold for the entire series after reading book 1.
Callie was such a fun character to follow as she got into one situation after another in this book. Sands was interesting and a solid love interest for Callie, even though it was a minor part of the story and only a hint at what might be.
The writing, the characters, the mystery and the vibe was all a yes for me. Read it on KU but needed it for my shelf. 🙌🏼
Callie was such a fun character to follow as she got into one situation after another in this book. Sands was interesting and a solid love interest for Callie, even though it was a minor part of the story and only a hint at what might be.
The writing, the characters, the mystery and the vibe was all a yes for me. Read it on KU but needed it for my shelf. 🙌🏼
May 3, 2016
Ms. Kales has created a wonderfully fresh amateur sleuth who solves mysteries with the same finesse that she uses to create tantalizing Greek delights for her new enterprise--Callie's Kitchen. I thoroughly enjoyed this first installment and am looking forward to more adventures in what promises to be a popular new culinary cozy series.
November 2, 2016
I found the first book On the Chopping Block in this new series quite enjoyable. I won this book during the Cozy Mystery Readathon and was anxious to read. I really enjoyed it and Callie can not only cook up some great Greek food but she can find a killer as well. Keep up the good work Jenny Kales I'm looking forward to book two in Callie's Kitchen.
June 26, 2016
This is terrific debut cozy mystery by author Jenny Kales. It is full of wonderful, hearty colorful Midwestern characters. Callie and her family are likable and people that you would want to know. The story is well written with a good pace, strong plot and a terrific mystery. Ms. Kales provides the reader with plenty of viable suspects who emerge as the story unfolds. There are plenty of twists, turns and clues that are designed to misdirect the reader's attention. The mystery started off in the first few pages of the book and came to a very satisfying ending with the identity of the killer being a surprise to me.
A full review will be posted on my blog on July 6, 2016.
I was gifted a copy of the book by the author in exchange for an honest review. This did not influence my opinion and the thoughts expressed are my own.
A full review will be posted on my blog on July 6, 2016.
I was gifted a copy of the book by the author in exchange for an honest review. This did not influence my opinion and the thoughts expressed are my own.
April 14, 2018
This was such a well-written and thought out mystery! I definitely didn't guess who the killer was and there were plenty of suspects to pick from, some good twists and some little side mysteries as well.
Callie Costas is a divorced mom of a 10 year old girl who is trying to build her dream, Callie's Kitchen, which is a Greek inspired restaurant. Everything seems to be going well until Callie finds her boyfriend, Drew, stabbed to death in his home the night they were supposed to have dinner there together. With Callie being first on the scene and also a contender for a local restaurant contest, it's not looking very good for her since Detective Sands has her in his radar as #1 suspect. Of course Callie isn't going to listen to him or her friend/lawyer, Samantha, so she proceeds to look into the case on her own to clear her name.
I just loved all these characters and their strong family ties. George, Callie's dad was everything you'd expect in a protective papa bear type figure. He loved Callie so much especially since he and her Grandma Viv had raised her since she was little. Grandma Viv was such a cool character too. She even insisted on a ride along when Callie need to go do some snooping. Sam was definitely someone I would want as a friend and lawyer, very faithful but definitely earning her fees as Callie sometimes forgot to tell her things about the case.
I liked that Callie wasn't bitter and hateful of her ex husband Hugh and his new wife Raine for her daughter Olivia's sake. Raine wasn't even the usual hateful new wife, she was almost like a puppy dog that wanted to please. I think she felt like she and Callie could be BFFs, lol and she was very good to Livvie (who called her Raine the Pain) It was more realistic because families do have to adjust to situations like this and try to get along with one another.
Max was another fun character. It'll be fun getting to know him and the rest of the characters in the next books which I'm very anxious to read. I'm also anxious to see how things progress between Callie and her detective friend. There are some really yummy sounding recipes in the back of the book. Those creme brulee cupcakes sound amazing!
Callie Costas is a divorced mom of a 10 year old girl who is trying to build her dream, Callie's Kitchen, which is a Greek inspired restaurant. Everything seems to be going well until Callie finds her boyfriend, Drew, stabbed to death in his home the night they were supposed to have dinner there together. With Callie being first on the scene and also a contender for a local restaurant contest, it's not looking very good for her since Detective Sands has her in his radar as #1 suspect. Of course Callie isn't going to listen to him or her friend/lawyer, Samantha, so she proceeds to look into the case on her own to clear her name.
I just loved all these characters and their strong family ties. George, Callie's dad was everything you'd expect in a protective papa bear type figure. He loved Callie so much especially since he and her Grandma Viv had raised her since she was little. Grandma Viv was such a cool character too. She even insisted on a ride along when Callie need to go do some snooping. Sam was definitely someone I would want as a friend and lawyer, very faithful but definitely earning her fees as Callie sometimes forgot to tell her things about the case.
I liked that Callie wasn't bitter and hateful of her ex husband Hugh and his new wife Raine for her daughter Olivia's sake. Raine wasn't even the usual hateful new wife, she was almost like a puppy dog that wanted to please. I think she felt like she and Callie could be BFFs, lol and she was very good to Livvie (who called her Raine the Pain) It was more realistic because families do have to adjust to situations like this and try to get along with one another.
Max was another fun character. It'll be fun getting to know him and the rest of the characters in the next books which I'm very anxious to read. I'm also anxious to see how things progress between Callie and her detective friend. There are some really yummy sounding recipes in the back of the book. Those creme brulee cupcakes sound amazing!
October 25, 2020
Good Fold and a Murder
Who knew cooking could be so dangerous! A romantic dinner begins with finding a dead body. Enter the handsome detective. But he thinks you did it. What choice do you have but to clear yourself? Adventure and dangers follow. Entertaining and suspense - a good read.
Who knew cooking could be so dangerous! A romantic dinner begins with finding a dead body. Enter the handsome detective. But he thinks you did it. What choice do you have but to clear yourself? Adventure and dangers follow. Entertaining and suspense - a good read.
May 7, 2016
Culinary cozy fans...this debut story is sure to whet your appetite and contains delish recipes for you to try at the end.
Callie Costas is a divorced mother struggling to keep her Mediterranean inspired restaurant, Callie's Kitchen, afloat in a town filled with lots of competition. When Drew Staven, the chef she's been casually dating, meets with unexpected foul play, Callie is the number one suspect on Detective Sands list. Was the murder a random act of violence or a crime of passion? Callie is a strong leading lady with everyday struggles readers can easily relate to. Her family is lovable and supportive, and her best friend, Samantha, smart and witty. Callie's little Yorkie, Koukla, is precious and very protective.
Jenny Kales slips smoothly into the cozy genre with a well prepared and tasty plot, providing multiple suspects with reasons why they could be back-stabbers. The story is absorbing, building to an ending spread thick and hearty with surprises as all the answers are revealed.
I received a complimentary ebook copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Callie Costas is a divorced mother struggling to keep her Mediterranean inspired restaurant, Callie's Kitchen, afloat in a town filled with lots of competition. When Drew Staven, the chef she's been casually dating, meets with unexpected foul play, Callie is the number one suspect on Detective Sands list. Was the murder a random act of violence or a crime of passion? Callie is a strong leading lady with everyday struggles readers can easily relate to. Her family is lovable and supportive, and her best friend, Samantha, smart and witty. Callie's little Yorkie, Koukla, is precious and very protective.
Jenny Kales slips smoothly into the cozy genre with a well prepared and tasty plot, providing multiple suspects with reasons why they could be back-stabbers. The story is absorbing, building to an ending spread thick and hearty with surprises as all the answers are revealed.
I received a complimentary ebook copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2018
On the Chopping Block is a nice start to what promises to be a very cozy mystery series indeed! Calliope Costas is a single mom and the owner of Callie's Kitchen in Crystal Bay, Wisconsin. When the man she's dating is found murdered, she must discover the culprit to clear her name and save her business. Fast-paced and filled with suspects and delicious recipes, Jenny Kales has created a well-written story that fans of cozies will be sure to enjoy! A+
February 2, 2018
A yummy mystery!
With as many suspects as Wisconsin has varieties of cheese, this book was a delightful way to spend a few hours. Jenny Kales has a quite a way with words and the reader feels pulled into the action and drama. I love the town of Crystal Bay and look forward to getting to know more of its inhabitants in the next book, Spiced and Iced.
With as many suspects as Wisconsin has varieties of cheese, this book was a delightful way to spend a few hours. Jenny Kales has a quite a way with words and the reader feels pulled into the action and drama. I love the town of Crystal Bay and look forward to getting to know more of its inhabitants in the next book, Spiced and Iced.
September 24, 2020
It's all Greek to me! 😀
Sallie sure had her hands full. Her "so call" boyfriend was murdered and she was the one to find him, shes divorced and trying to run a restaurant. The worst is that she's being accused of killed her boyfriend! So my thought to "Can they like anymore sh!t on her plate!" Well the surprise is who actually did kill him and I have to say I can see why. I really enjoyed this cozy murder mysy. I was a trip for sure but what a tasty one it was. I can't wait to read the next to find some more tasty treats including Det. Sands. LOL
Sallie sure had her hands full. Her "so call" boyfriend was murdered and she was the one to find him, shes divorced and trying to run a restaurant. The worst is that she's being accused of killed her boyfriend! So my thought to "Can they like anymore sh!t on her plate!" Well the surprise is who actually did kill him and I have to say I can see why. I really enjoyed this cozy murder mysy. I was a trip for sure but what a tasty one it was. I can't wait to read the next to find some more tasty treats including Det. Sands. LOL
June 25, 2017
Callie runs a food business and is dating another food business owner, she goes to his house for a meal and finds him stabbed to death. While she tries to figure out who did it and get herself off the suspect list she finds a lot of things aren't what they seem. An enjoyable story with plenty of family background to add to the story.
August 14, 2018
This culinary cozy definitely kept me on my toes! As a first-in-series, I found myself suspecting nearly every character at some point. I liked main character Callie, her dad George, grandfather Viv, and her best friend Sam. I even liked her ex-husband Hugh, as they have an amicable relationship and share custody of their daughter Olivia. There were plenty of twists and turns in this story to keep me engaged, and I didn't solve the mystery until it was revealed. This is my first book by Jenny Kales, but it won't be my last. So glad I bought the 3-book box set, so I can get started on book #2!
July 6, 2016
On The Chopping Block
A Callie’s Kitchen Mystery, Book #1
Jenny Kales
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Building a small business has been murder, but Callie Costas didn’t expect to be confronted with an actual body. The 36-year-old Greek-American proprietor of “Callie's Kitchen,” a meals-from-scratch business in an idyllic small town, has been busy creating a post-divorce life for herself, her young daughter and her Yorkie, Koukla. After a lot of hard work (including staving off her father’s continual advice), she’s got the locals and tourists clamoring for her delicious Mediterranean dishes and Midwest comfort food classics. Recently, she’s started a budding romance with a fellow foodie, the wealthy owner and chef of Crystal Bay’s most popular bistro.
However, success is as fleeting as one of Wisconsin’s glorious autumn days. As local businesses begin to shut down due to a slow economy, Callie is struggling not to become another statistic. A contest with a hefty cash prize seems like the perfect chance to fix her financial woes, until a shocking murder threatens not only her livelihood – but her life.
When she’s targeted as a prime suspect by an attractive expat British detective, Callie’s situation becomes more delicate than her Greek egg-lemon soup. She’s got to find the killer and fast if she wants to protect her daughter, save her business and stay alive. (Goodreads)
Review:
Callie Costas has finally achieved her dream of owning her own restaurant. After divorcing her husband she knows that she has to make a new life for her and her daughter and she takes a chance when she opens Callie’s Kitchen. But so far the chance has paid off and the restaurant is doing good, She has even found a new love interest and things are looking up. That is until she finds the body of her boyfriend dead on his kitchen floor. When she finds herself being the main person of interest, she knows she has to take things into her own hands. She has to find the killer herself so that her daughter does not lose her mother to a jail call.
The characters are well developed, well rounded and three dimensional. Callie is a hard worker and is not afraid of very much. Except her father!! She does not want to share her personal life with him and she does not tell her father about her new boyfriend. She does not want to get lectured by him. She has already defied him once when she open Callie’s Kitchen. She does not want to do anything else to upset him. I thought it was amusing she was scared of her father’s wrath. But you can tell they have a special relationship and that they love each other a lot.
I found it refreshing that Callie was older and had a child. In many of the cozies I read, the protagonist is younger with a core group of friends. In this book, Callie is more mature at the age of thirty six and does not take unnecessary chances with her safety.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an fast easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and while reading the book I felt like I was right there in the middle of the action. The mystery is carried on well throughout the entire book. There were enough suspects and twists and turns that I was kept guessing the whole time I was reading.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy. I really enjoyed this first book in the series and thought it was a great start. I cannot wait to read the next book and see what happens next in Callie’s life.
A Callie’s Kitchen Mystery, Book #1
Jenny Kales
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Building a small business has been murder, but Callie Costas didn’t expect to be confronted with an actual body. The 36-year-old Greek-American proprietor of “Callie's Kitchen,” a meals-from-scratch business in an idyllic small town, has been busy creating a post-divorce life for herself, her young daughter and her Yorkie, Koukla. After a lot of hard work (including staving off her father’s continual advice), she’s got the locals and tourists clamoring for her delicious Mediterranean dishes and Midwest comfort food classics. Recently, she’s started a budding romance with a fellow foodie, the wealthy owner and chef of Crystal Bay’s most popular bistro.
However, success is as fleeting as one of Wisconsin’s glorious autumn days. As local businesses begin to shut down due to a slow economy, Callie is struggling not to become another statistic. A contest with a hefty cash prize seems like the perfect chance to fix her financial woes, until a shocking murder threatens not only her livelihood – but her life.
When she’s targeted as a prime suspect by an attractive expat British detective, Callie’s situation becomes more delicate than her Greek egg-lemon soup. She’s got to find the killer and fast if she wants to protect her daughter, save her business and stay alive. (Goodreads)
Review:
Callie Costas has finally achieved her dream of owning her own restaurant. After divorcing her husband she knows that she has to make a new life for her and her daughter and she takes a chance when she opens Callie’s Kitchen. But so far the chance has paid off and the restaurant is doing good, She has even found a new love interest and things are looking up. That is until she finds the body of her boyfriend dead on his kitchen floor. When she finds herself being the main person of interest, she knows she has to take things into her own hands. She has to find the killer herself so that her daughter does not lose her mother to a jail call.
The characters are well developed, well rounded and three dimensional. Callie is a hard worker and is not afraid of very much. Except her father!! She does not want to share her personal life with him and she does not tell her father about her new boyfriend. She does not want to get lectured by him. She has already defied him once when she open Callie’s Kitchen. She does not want to do anything else to upset him. I thought it was amusing she was scared of her father’s wrath. But you can tell they have a special relationship and that they love each other a lot.
I found it refreshing that Callie was older and had a child. In many of the cozies I read, the protagonist is younger with a core group of friends. In this book, Callie is more mature at the age of thirty six and does not take unnecessary chances with her safety.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an fast easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and while reading the book I felt like I was right there in the middle of the action. The mystery is carried on well throughout the entire book. There were enough suspects and twists and turns that I was kept guessing the whole time I was reading.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy. I really enjoyed this first book in the series and thought it was a great start. I cannot wait to read the next book and see what happens next in Callie’s life.
January 6, 2017
“το αγαπώ!” I yell. It is hard not to channel my inner Zorba and holler out, “I love it!”
Callie was eager about the home-cooked meal by her boyfriend Drew Staven, who had recently been named the winner of the “Taste of Crystal Bay” cooking contest and the $10,000 prize. But, when she arrives and doorbells, knocks, and calling out his name went unanswered she decides to peek into the kitchen window. There on the floor is Drew…dead with a knife in his chest. Callie had been a participant and runner up in the local cooking contest, and now that she, by default, may earn the prize, the police are taking a very close look at her motive, opportunity, and means.
Finding a dead body is traumatic, let alone finding a dead body of someone with whom you are involved. Matters get worse as a suspect turning her world upside down. Detective Sands keeps the pressure on, and with the Kitchen suffering from the news reports connecting Callie to the murder, she decides to start her own covert investigation. Discovering several ‘wrenches’ proves dangerous, and beyond the prospect of being arrested, Callie herself could be in real danger.
Jenny Kales has written a delicious mystery everyone will enjoy. Book 1 is clever allowing the reader to follow along the investigations and ponder their own possible solution…a few “Oh, No-s!” popped up making the final solution entertaining. The characters were realistic that they could be family (over-protective fathers, worrisome exes, supportive grandmothers), friends (helpful co-workers, eager colleagues, a BFF that is an Ethel to your Lucy), or neighbors (an overzealous detective, shopkeepers, busy-body patrons). Descriptions made me hungry from the fragrant spices permeating Callie’s Kitchen to cringing with Callie’s panic. Easy to follow recipes of the delicious Greek delicacies prominent in Callie’s Kitchen were provided. My book club, family brunch, date-night will be very special with these recipes. I was completely entertained with the murder mystery, the characters, the recipes, and have become a big-time Jenny Kales fan!
Callie was eager about the home-cooked meal by her boyfriend Drew Staven, who had recently been named the winner of the “Taste of Crystal Bay” cooking contest and the $10,000 prize. But, when she arrives and doorbells, knocks, and calling out his name went unanswered she decides to peek into the kitchen window. There on the floor is Drew…dead with a knife in his chest. Callie had been a participant and runner up in the local cooking contest, and now that she, by default, may earn the prize, the police are taking a very close look at her motive, opportunity, and means.
Finding a dead body is traumatic, let alone finding a dead body of someone with whom you are involved. Matters get worse as a suspect turning her world upside down. Detective Sands keeps the pressure on, and with the Kitchen suffering from the news reports connecting Callie to the murder, she decides to start her own covert investigation. Discovering several ‘wrenches’ proves dangerous, and beyond the prospect of being arrested, Callie herself could be in real danger.
Jenny Kales has written a delicious mystery everyone will enjoy. Book 1 is clever allowing the reader to follow along the investigations and ponder their own possible solution…a few “Oh, No-s!” popped up making the final solution entertaining. The characters were realistic that they could be family (over-protective fathers, worrisome exes, supportive grandmothers), friends (helpful co-workers, eager colleagues, a BFF that is an Ethel to your Lucy), or neighbors (an overzealous detective, shopkeepers, busy-body patrons). Descriptions made me hungry from the fragrant spices permeating Callie’s Kitchen to cringing with Callie’s panic. Easy to follow recipes of the delicious Greek delicacies prominent in Callie’s Kitchen were provided. My book club, family brunch, date-night will be very special with these recipes. I was completely entertained with the murder mystery, the characters, the recipes, and have become a big-time Jenny Kales fan!
June 17, 2017
Great cozy!
Jenny Kales really knows how to bring together a cast of great characters. A Greek father! George was great! The Callie's kitchen series is going to be fun with mysteries to solve, family and friends to meet, get to know and grow to love.
Jenny Kales really knows how to bring together a cast of great characters. A Greek father! George was great! The Callie's kitchen series is going to be fun with mysteries to solve, family and friends to meet, get to know and grow to love.
July 31, 2016
This was such a fun book to read. The lead characters are very well written about. The main character,Callie,is very believable ,she is a mom, a business owner, a boss,a good daughter...and is a murder suspect.Lol I like how the author made Callie vulnerable and not a pushover,or someone who thinks she knows it all. The mystery behind her boyfriend Drews murder is very well written and it leaves you guessing who the killer is and why Drew had to die. A very good read that I would recommend to anyone who loves a well written and good mystery. But the end,ohhh it makes you want to read the next book..now,but we have to wait,lol
May 2, 2016
LOVED this story! The mystery kept me on my toes--I'm pretty good at figuring out who-dun-it, but Kales had me guessing until the very end. Callie and her crew are relatable and hilarious, and I found myself completely engaged in their lives. Oh, and let's not forget the food! OMG, the food. The recipes included reflect the main character's Greek heritage and they are amazing. I haven't seen many Greek-inspired cozies, so this book was an enjoyably fresh take on the genre. Highly recommended--Opa!
November 23, 2017
Sometimes a genre book pops up onto your Facebook by an author you follow and you see that their spanakopita recipe is in the book and it is FREE! I rushed to buy On the Chopping Block by Jenny Kales. I had a couple books before I started but seemingly big brother knew I had bought a Jenny Kales book and she was all over my social media and all I wanted was to visit Crystal Bay and meet Callie Costas.
As with all self published books I think that there is a certain level of is this edited and formatted correctly because we have all seen the doozy ones. Let me tell you this Jenny Kales is a fantastic author and everything looks amazing. This book was a breath of fresh air in the cozy scene. Not only was I in love with all of the characters at the beginning but this book starts with the murder and you are already sympathetic to the murdered victim. Jenny Kales thanks her cover artist at the end and if you look at the covers of her three books they are stunning and even look better then some of the covers coming out now. Also her printed copies are very affordable and look equally as gorgeous. I might just have to invest in them. I am so excited to continue this series and see what else Callie is capable of!
As with all self published books I think that there is a certain level of is this edited and formatted correctly because we have all seen the doozy ones. Let me tell you this Jenny Kales is a fantastic author and everything looks amazing. This book was a breath of fresh air in the cozy scene. Not only was I in love with all of the characters at the beginning but this book starts with the murder and you are already sympathetic to the murdered victim. Jenny Kales thanks her cover artist at the end and if you look at the covers of her three books they are stunning and even look better then some of the covers coming out now. Also her printed copies are very affordable and look equally as gorgeous. I might just have to invest in them. I am so excited to continue this series and see what else Callie is capable of!
August 7, 2018
A book that has all of the best of a very very good cozy mystery. Many elements made this a delight to read. Believable characters. Many strong red herring's that are so well blended into the story that I was just not sure until the end who the actual murderer was. Sometimes red herring characters are added in such a way that the story just doesn't flow nicely. This story is NOT one of them. The pace of the story kept me reading along without being weighed down with repetitions and re-hashing things to the point of boredom. I did miss not having a touch of witty humor. But that in NO way diminished my enjoyment of this book. The number of likable characters and not so likable is very well balanced to make a cohesive story. George can seem brusque at times but I, for one wish I had a father just like him. The "gently budding romance" is endearing. I could develop a crush on "him". (not going to add a spoiler. )
November 19, 2018
my go 2 are always mysteries ...for some reason i really enjoy cooking, baking or kitchen kind of mysteries ...those seems to be the ones i really find funny, humorous or way interesting. i mean look at that cover. so cool!! such a new fan of Jenny Kales ... great read. 4 books in this series. set in Wisconsin. I look forward to more from Jenny ... love her characters, her writing style ... so awesome!! i'll read more from her soon.
March 20, 2021
Excellent
I thoroughly enjoyed the first novel in this cozy mystery series. Callie is an energetic and personable character. The recipes sound great. I miss living in an area where there were Greek eateries.
I thoroughly enjoyed the first novel in this cozy mystery series. Callie is an energetic and personable character. The recipes sound great. I miss living in an area where there were Greek eateries.
July 19, 2017
Great read, couldn't stop reading.
I loved the entire concept. The characters are charming, the pictures I got of the location were wonderful, but most importantly the plot makes you want to stay up past your bedtime to finish the book!
I understand that this was Ms. Kales first murder mystery book. Well all I can say is more more more!
I loved the entire concept. The characters are charming, the pictures I got of the location were wonderful, but most importantly the plot makes you want to stay up past your bedtime to finish the book!
I understand that this was Ms. Kales first murder mystery book. Well all I can say is more more more!
August 21, 2016
I have had this on my Kindle for a little while and randomly chose it last night. I remember buying it because I found the cover so enticing!
The theme behind this cozy is a meals from scratch business with a Greek flavor, ran by the Callie of Callie’s Kitchen. Callie is the protagonist and has a sidekick in the form of a lawyer pal, a curmudgeon of a father, a thorn in her side Detective, and a dead boyfriend. Detective Sands is trying to leave no stone unturned, but Callie is determined to help solve the case because the future of her fledgling business might just depend on clearing her name.
The mystery had quite a few suspects and motives for Drew’s murder, enough to keep you guessing. The chemistry between Callie and Detective Sands was well done and speaks well for future development. The relationship between Callie and her ex was a breath of fresh air. Too often in novels, exes are demonized or were abusive or committed some crime or abandoned the protagonist. This was handled very realistically, just two people trying to co-parent after divorce. The townspeople provide a colorful background cast and the setting of Wisconsin is new to me.
Enjoyable, quick cozy with a fun theme and well drawn characters.
The theme behind this cozy is a meals from scratch business with a Greek flavor, ran by the Callie of Callie’s Kitchen. Callie is the protagonist and has a sidekick in the form of a lawyer pal, a curmudgeon of a father, a thorn in her side Detective, and a dead boyfriend. Detective Sands is trying to leave no stone unturned, but Callie is determined to help solve the case because the future of her fledgling business might just depend on clearing her name.
The mystery had quite a few suspects and motives for Drew’s murder, enough to keep you guessing. The chemistry between Callie and Detective Sands was well done and speaks well for future development. The relationship between Callie and her ex was a breath of fresh air. Too often in novels, exes are demonized or were abusive or committed some crime or abandoned the protagonist. This was handled very realistically, just two people trying to co-parent after divorce. The townspeople provide a colorful background cast and the setting of Wisconsin is new to me.
Enjoyable, quick cozy with a fun theme and well drawn characters.
September 24, 2016
On the Chopping Block is Jenny Kales debut book and it is a doozie !!! First in the Callie's Kitchen Mystery series and it will have you hooked and wanting more !!
Crystal Bay is such a quaint little town that you will wish you were a tourist enjoying the water, the restaurants, the shops and the people.
Callie who just happens to own Callie's Kitchen is dating Drew who happens to own another restaurant named, what else, Drew. But when Callie goes to Drew's house for a dinner date, she finds him laying on the floor dead !!! And no matter what she tells the police, specifically Detective Sands, she is their prime suspect !!
In order to clear her name and attempt to win customers back, she does her own investigating. Even though everyone from her overbearing father to her best friend Sam who is also her lawyer keeps telling her to stay out of it, her business and daughter need her NOT in jail.
This was a very enjoyable and mind catching book with a lot of worthy suspects. But when it gets down to it, you cannot believe who is behind all of it ..... and why !!
Crystal Bay is such a quaint little town that you will wish you were a tourist enjoying the water, the restaurants, the shops and the people.
Callie who just happens to own Callie's Kitchen is dating Drew who happens to own another restaurant named, what else, Drew. But when Callie goes to Drew's house for a dinner date, she finds him laying on the floor dead !!! And no matter what she tells the police, specifically Detective Sands, she is their prime suspect !!
In order to clear her name and attempt to win customers back, she does her own investigating. Even though everyone from her overbearing father to her best friend Sam who is also her lawyer keeps telling her to stay out of it, her business and daughter need her NOT in jail.
This was a very enjoyable and mind catching book with a lot of worthy suspects. But when it gets down to it, you cannot believe who is behind all of it ..... and why !!
August 4, 2017
A Story With Surprises
Callie Costas has struck out on her own. Followed her dream of a Greek bakery also offering easy meals to go for the busy person.
She came in second in the cooking competition in the sponsored by the Crystal Bay small business owners, first went to Drew, the man she's quietly been dating.
When she finds his body, of course she is the main suspect.
As her business starts to fail, Callie decides to investigate in hopes of clearing her name.
The twists had me surprised by the killer. I just knew it was someone else. Nice to be wrong and surprised.
This book held my interest to the point that I hated to do anything but read.
The characters are well written and given a good depth without getting confusing in their relationship to the victim or each other.
I did like how the description of the town and surrounding area was handled. Again enough information to give me a clear picture of the area without going into unnecessary details.
The recipes at the end are all featured in the book and I can't wait to try them.
Callie Costas has struck out on her own. Followed her dream of a Greek bakery also offering easy meals to go for the busy person.
She came in second in the cooking competition in the sponsored by the Crystal Bay small business owners, first went to Drew, the man she's quietly been dating.
When she finds his body, of course she is the main suspect.
As her business starts to fail, Callie decides to investigate in hopes of clearing her name.
The twists had me surprised by the killer. I just knew it was someone else. Nice to be wrong and surprised.
This book held my interest to the point that I hated to do anything but read.
The characters are well written and given a good depth without getting confusing in their relationship to the victim or each other.
I did like how the description of the town and surrounding area was handled. Again enough information to give me a clear picture of the area without going into unnecessary details.
The recipes at the end are all featured in the book and I can't wait to try them.
July 19, 2020
“On the Chopping Block” by Jenny Kales
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#1 Callie’s Kitchen Mystery
Kindle Unlimited
Book 83 in 2020
This was a fun Culinary Cozy Mystery and I can’t wait to read the next one!
Callie Costas owns a Greek Kitchen on the popular business district in small town Crystal Bay, WI. She is determined to keep her business alive, but finds it almost impossible when she’s a suspect in her boyfriends murder. Callie found Bistro owner Drew dead in his kitchen with a chefs knife in his chest. When Callie finds out she’s a suspect she has to figure out how to clear her name. What’s her motive? A culinary business contest with a large cash prize announced the winner days before Drew’s death. He had won and wanted to celebrate. Callie supppsedly was 2nd place, which means no prize. With Drew out of the picture does that mean she won? Gossip spreads through the small town like a wild fire causing her business to suffer. When Callie decides to play Nancy Drew she uncovers some of the towns juiciest secrets. Can she clear her name? Who killed Drew and why?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#1 Callie’s Kitchen Mystery
Kindle Unlimited
Book 83 in 2020
This was a fun Culinary Cozy Mystery and I can’t wait to read the next one!
Callie Costas owns a Greek Kitchen on the popular business district in small town Crystal Bay, WI. She is determined to keep her business alive, but finds it almost impossible when she’s a suspect in her boyfriends murder. Callie found Bistro owner Drew dead in his kitchen with a chefs knife in his chest. When Callie finds out she’s a suspect she has to figure out how to clear her name. What’s her motive? A culinary business contest with a large cash prize announced the winner days before Drew’s death. He had won and wanted to celebrate. Callie supppsedly was 2nd place, which means no prize. With Drew out of the picture does that mean she won? Gossip spreads through the small town like a wild fire causing her business to suffer. When Callie decides to play Nancy Drew she uncovers some of the towns juiciest secrets. Can she clear her name? Who killed Drew and why?
June 12, 2016
Ms. Kales's debut novel is a perfect summer beach read complete with vibrant characters, a winning heroine, and a whodunit that has the reader guessing until (almost literally) the end.
Callie Costas is a single mom, restaurateur, and doting daughter and granddaughter in idyllic Crystal Bay, Wisconsin. She also adds on the title of "detective" when she discovers a dead body and is the police department's prime suspect for the murder.
Callie is a believable and likeable character, she's also feisty and fearless when it comes to her own personal safety. I'm glad that this is the first book in Kales's "Callie's Kitchen" series because I cannot wait to see what happens in future installments.
And HUGE BONUS - the Greek dishes that Ms. Kales writes so lovingly about in the story? Included as recipes at the end of the book. I cannot wait to get in the kitchen with these dishes!
Callie Costas is a single mom, restaurateur, and doting daughter and granddaughter in idyllic Crystal Bay, Wisconsin. She also adds on the title of "detective" when she discovers a dead body and is the police department's prime suspect for the murder.
Callie is a believable and likeable character, she's also feisty and fearless when it comes to her own personal safety. I'm glad that this is the first book in Kales's "Callie's Kitchen" series because I cannot wait to see what happens in future installments.
And HUGE BONUS - the Greek dishes that Ms. Kales writes so lovingly about in the story? Included as recipes at the end of the book. I cannot wait to get in the kitchen with these dishes!
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