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Maine Clambake Mystery #10
Muddled Through
Mud season takes on a whole new meaning in the coastal town of Busman's Harbor, Maine, when local business owners sling dirt at one another in a heated feud over a proposed pedestrian mall. Vandalism is one thing, but murder means Julia Snowden of the Snowden Family Clambake steps in to clean up the case . . .
When Julia spots police cars in front of Lupine Design, she races over. Her sister Livvie works there as a potter. Livvie is unharmed but surrounded by smashed up pottery. The police find the owner Zoey Butterfield digging clay by a nearby bay, but she has no idea who would target her store. Zoey is a vocal advocate for turning four blocks of Main Street into a pedestrian mall on summer weekends. Other shop owners, including her next-door neighbor, are vehemently opposed. Could a small-town fight provoke such destruction? When a murder follows the break-in, it's up to Julia to dig through the secrets and lies to uncover the truth . . .
When Julia spots police cars in front of Lupine Design, she races over. Her sister Livvie works there as a potter. Livvie is unharmed but surrounded by smashed up pottery. The police find the owner Zoey Butterfield digging clay by a nearby bay, but she has no idea who would target her store. Zoey is a vocal advocate for turning four blocks of Main Street into a pedestrian mall on summer weekends. Other shop owners, including her next-door neighbor, are vehemently opposed. Could a small-town fight provoke such destruction? When a murder follows the break-in, it's up to Julia to dig through the secrets and lies to uncover the truth . . .
265 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 28, 2022
197 people are currently reading
2855 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Ross
39 books1,137 followersBarbara Ross is the author of twelve Maine Clambake Mystery novellas and six novellas. Her books have been nominated for multiple Agatha Awards for Best Contemporary Novel and have won the Maine Literary Award for Crime Fiction. Barbara and her husband live in Portland, Maine. Readers can visit her website at Maine Clambake Mysteries.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
July 6, 2022
Muddled Through is the 10th book in the Maine Clambake Mysteries written by Barbara Ross. I've previously finished all the earlier books in the series and enjoy these cozies because they are set in Maine, my future home (wishing for it!). Protagonist Julia Snowden returned home several years ago after a stint in NYC working in the financial sector, but now she runs her family's summer clambake business. Since the last book, she ended a relationship and moved back to her mom's to start fresh. When her sister finds a pottery shop trashed, Julia befriends the owner, Zoey, who helps her figure out how to move on again. But when the owner of the business next door (with whom Zoey often fought) is found murdered in their jointly-owned basement, Zoey's in trouble. Especially given she's hidden some of her connections to the town. Why would someone want to kill the elderly man? Or was he not the intended victim? Julia snuffs out the truth and finds herself trapped with the killer in a near-death scene. Ross captivated my attention like a true thriller in that chapter, and I was so glad to see the ending come together. But now Julia is moving in a new direction and possibly considering dating another character... exciting times for the upcoming books.
June 29, 2022
Spring usually means that Julia Snowden is trying to get ready for the busy season with her family’s clambake, but this year, she is being distracted by local politics. Specifically, there is the heated debate in town about turning the downtown area into a pedestrian mall on Friday and Saturday nights during the tourist season. On opposite sides of the issue are business neighbors Zoey Butterfield, who owns the pottery story where Julia’s sister works, and Phinney Hardison. When Zoey’s story is vandalized, the only motive she can think of is this controversy. Then a dead body is found. Is local politics the motive for the violence? Or is something else going on?
I’ve been anxiously waiting for this book since the last one came out. Yes, we do get to the storylines left open from the previous book, and I was actually impressed with the growth in Julia that came out of them. Of course, the book left me wondering where we were going to go next, but that’s a good thing. Yes, if you are new to the series, you could jump in here, but you’ll appreciate the growth better if you’ve read the earlier books. This is such a great series you’ll be glad you did. As always, Julia leads a great cast of new and returning characters, and I loved spending time with them. The mystery for this book is strong, and I was once again amazed at how everything was plotted when I reached the end. Fans will be happy with this book. If that isn’t you, fix that today.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
I’ve been anxiously waiting for this book since the last one came out. Yes, we do get to the storylines left open from the previous book, and I was actually impressed with the growth in Julia that came out of them. Of course, the book left me wondering where we were going to go next, but that’s a good thing. Yes, if you are new to the series, you could jump in here, but you’ll appreciate the growth better if you’ve read the earlier books. This is such a great series you’ll be glad you did. As always, Julia leads a great cast of new and returning characters, and I loved spending time with them. The mystery for this book is strong, and I was once again amazed at how everything was plotted when I reached the end. Fans will be happy with this book. If that isn’t you, fix that today.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
March 3, 2022
Muddled Through is the tenth book in this series by Barbara Ross.
The series focuses on Julia Snowden and her family's famous clam bake business.
Julia has ended a long term relationship and she's trying keep her emotions in check.
Livvie is her sister, who happens to work for a pottery business that was vandalized. Things get worse when an grumpy curmudgeon is found dead in the basement of the pottery shop.
The owner, Zoey, is a truly wonderful character and I hope she becomes an important part of the cast in this series.
Julia is good at talking to people and her insight into this mystery was well told.
I had no idea who the murderer was, I was shocked to the core.
I'm excited to see where this story goes, and I hope Julia realizes who the police officer is who is sweet on her.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book. I look forward to recommending it to others.
#MuddledThrough #NetGalley
The series focuses on Julia Snowden and her family's famous clam bake business.
Julia has ended a long term relationship and she's trying keep her emotions in check.
Livvie is her sister, who happens to work for a pottery business that was vandalized. Things get worse when an grumpy curmudgeon is found dead in the basement of the pottery shop.
The owner, Zoey, is a truly wonderful character and I hope she becomes an important part of the cast in this series.
Julia is good at talking to people and her insight into this mystery was well told.
I had no idea who the murderer was, I was shocked to the core.
I'm excited to see where this story goes, and I hope Julia realizes who the police officer is who is sweet on her.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book. I look forward to recommending it to others.
#MuddledThrough #NetGalley
June 17, 2022
Muddled Through by Barbara Ross takes us back to Busman’s Harbor, Maine. Julia Snowden finds herself embroiled in another mystery courtesy of her sister, Livvie. Livvie works at Lupine Designs owned by Zoey Butterfield in the off season. Zoey is a potter who makes beautiful plates, cups, bowls, platters, and other related items. Julia gets a frantic call from her sister. She rushes down to the shop to find the place destroyed. Someone managed to get into the shop in the early hours and destroy the store’s inventory. Zoey had been out collecting clay, so she was no in her apartment above the shop. The day after a raucous town meeting, Phinney Hardison is found dead in the basement of Lupine Design. Zoey is the prime suspect since it is her shop, she had access, and she had an altercation with the victim at the town meeting the previous evening. Zoey and Phinney were on opposite sides of pedestrian mall matter. Livvie asks Julia to investigate and prove Zoey’s innocence. Julia has her work cut out for on this case. Muddled Through is the tenth A Maine Clambake Mystery. It can be read as a standalone since the necessary background information is provided. Barbara Ross has a casual writing style. It is friendly and engaging. It makes her stories easy to read. Julia Snowden is single after parting ways with Chris Durand. She has returned to her mother’s home since Gus needed Julia’s apartment for family. It is spring in Maine which means it is the muddy season. The mud and rain make it difficult to get around. You need to have sturdy wellies if you are going to be out and about. The town is in an uproar over the proposed pedestrian mall. Four blocks of Main Street would be blocked to road traffic on Friday and Saturday evening during July and August. Shops could set out their wares and restaurants could offer outdoor dining (a street festival vibe). Zoey Butterfield, a local potter and store owner, is in favor of the pedestrian mall. Phinney Hardison is not in favor of the mall or tourists. He still considers Zoey a flatlander. Phinney is found dead in Zoey’s basement which leads to a major investigation. Julia is a curious person by nature. She likes to know the answers, so it does not take much persuasion to convince her to look into the crime. Julia asks questions, looks up information online, and searches for clues. The mystery becomes interesting in the second half of the book. I enjoyed following Julia as she gathered intel. I love solving whodunits. I had an inkling as to why a certain person committed the crime, but I was not completely sure until Julia uncovered the final clue. The reveal is suspenseful and suits the series. Julia is still trying to get over Chris Durand. Zoey gives her some good advice. It looks like there is a potential love interest or two for Julia (when she is ready). I enjoy the author’s descriptions of Maine. It sounds like a beautiful area. I liked meeting Alice Rumsford (a local philanthropist). I hope we get to see more of her in the future. Muddled Through is a wicked fun time with messy mud, pulverized pottery, ardent debating, mall melee, a slain neighbor, key conundrum, a brilliant breakthrough, and a questioning Julia.
August 22, 2022
When a new book by Barbara Ross comes out I know I'm in for a great read, and MUDDLED THROUGH is no exception. Julia Snowden is one of my favorite cozy mystery characters and I always enjoy catching up with what's going on in Busman's Harbor. Even off-season, this small Maine town is a wonderful setting and Ross's intricate plot kept me guessing all the way to the end.
October 9, 2022
Another solid entry in this reliably entertaining cozy series. Tourist season arrives soon in Maine, so Julia Snowden is taking advantage the last gasps of free time before the opening of the Snowden family clambake business to investigate the murder and break-in at the upscale pottery stote where her sister works.Well developed and interesting characters people this fast paced mystery. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 26, 2022
This is one of my favorite series because it makes me smile and because I spend portions of my summer in Boothbay Harbor, an inspiration for the series’s setting. While the previous book was not my favorite, this latest adventure for Julia put the series back on track for me in terms of enjoyment. The title is so perfect, both for the time of year the story is set and as a description for Julia’s emotional journey. The character relationships were just as important and entertaining as the mystery. I didn’t figure out the “solution” until late, but it also didn’t come out of no where so it was satisfying in that regard. Hoping we don’t have to wait too long for the next book.
August 7, 2022
For the first time in about 37 years, I'm not going up to Boothbay Harbor, oops, I mean, Busman's Harbor. So this book will have to do. It does bring the place very much to life and I can picture so many of the places that she describes.
It is always fun to visit with the characters in this book and it is no different this time. I enjoy seeing what the characters do and how they make ends meet during the off-seasons. Julia actually makes a friend in this book who isn't related to her family or someone she grew up living next to. I was also very satisfied on how Julia really looked at her relationship with Chris (which ended a few books ago) to put it in perspective and maybe be able to move on. After all one of the reason people read cozy series is to read about the same characters and their lives.
Overall, a satisfying and fairly typical cozy. I will be back for more.
It is always fun to visit with the characters in this book and it is no different this time. I enjoy seeing what the characters do and how they make ends meet during the off-seasons. Julia actually makes a friend in this book who isn't related to her family or someone she grew up living next to. I was also very satisfied on how Julia really looked at her relationship with Chris (which ended a few books ago) to put it in perspective and maybe be able to move on. After all one of the reason people read cozy series is to read about the same characters and their lives.
Overall, a satisfying and fairly typical cozy. I will be back for more.
July 16, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
We arrive in Busman’s Harbor, Maine just in time for Mud Season and a local fight about a new pedestrian mall. Most of the people who have lived there forever have no interest is the mall or change in general. Newcomer Zoey Butterfield is in favor of the project and that could be the reason her pottery store Lupine Design was vandalized. Because Julia’s sister Livvie works at the shop she pitches in to help clean up the place after the police give them the go ahead. But it going to take a little longer to clean up the mess that a murder leaves behind. Zoey is high on the suspect list. To help her new friend Julia decides she is the one that can get to the truth but she could get killed before she unties the final knot of clues.
With the clambakes not starting for a while, our protagonist is spending time on Morrow Island at the family estate overseeing the renovations and making some fun choices. That leaves her plenty of time to help get Zoey out of the mess she finds herself in. Zoey and Julia seem to become fast friends and I liked that. I hope we see Zoey in future books. Chris, on the other hand, I am done with him. Julia still finds it hard to see him and she needs to move on and out of her mother’s house. She is a strong woman who seems to be able to accomplish anything she puts her mind to and that is why she is one of my favorite cozy characters.
Ms. Ross has put forth another complex mystery. Secret, lies, twists, turns, all had the pages rapidly turning. A local philanthropist adds some interesting answers that lead Julia to go over everything she had compiled in her investigation. She comes up with a new theory and runs with it. That running takes her into a very scary situation that had me creeping right up to the edge of my seat. My “Aha Moment” coincided with Julia. I do love it when that happens because that means I fell for everything the author wanted me to.
Mud Season in Maine is probably not the optimal time to visit but it did make for some interesting and some very funny scenes as we Muddled Through the story.
Muddled Through was A Perfect Escape! Great characters, a plot that kept me on my toes, and plenty of MUD. By the end of the book, the clambakes are starting but Julia’s life is still in flux. I am excited to return to Busman’s Harbor to see what Barbara Ross has in store for her wonderful characters next.
We arrive in Busman’s Harbor, Maine just in time for Mud Season and a local fight about a new pedestrian mall. Most of the people who have lived there forever have no interest is the mall or change in general. Newcomer Zoey Butterfield is in favor of the project and that could be the reason her pottery store Lupine Design was vandalized. Because Julia’s sister Livvie works at the shop she pitches in to help clean up the place after the police give them the go ahead. But it going to take a little longer to clean up the mess that a murder leaves behind. Zoey is high on the suspect list. To help her new friend Julia decides she is the one that can get to the truth but she could get killed before she unties the final knot of clues.
With the clambakes not starting for a while, our protagonist is spending time on Morrow Island at the family estate overseeing the renovations and making some fun choices. That leaves her plenty of time to help get Zoey out of the mess she finds herself in. Zoey and Julia seem to become fast friends and I liked that. I hope we see Zoey in future books. Chris, on the other hand, I am done with him. Julia still finds it hard to see him and she needs to move on and out of her mother’s house. She is a strong woman who seems to be able to accomplish anything she puts her mind to and that is why she is one of my favorite cozy characters.
Ms. Ross has put forth another complex mystery. Secret, lies, twists, turns, all had the pages rapidly turning. A local philanthropist adds some interesting answers that lead Julia to go over everything she had compiled in her investigation. She comes up with a new theory and runs with it. That running takes her into a very scary situation that had me creeping right up to the edge of my seat. My “Aha Moment” coincided with Julia. I do love it when that happens because that means I fell for everything the author wanted me to.
Mud Season in Maine is probably not the optimal time to visit but it did make for some interesting and some very funny scenes as we Muddled Through the story.
Muddled Through was A Perfect Escape! Great characters, a plot that kept me on my toes, and plenty of MUD. By the end of the book, the clambakes are starting but Julia’s life is still in flux. I am excited to return to Busman’s Harbor to see what Barbara Ross has in store for her wonderful characters next.
May 23, 2022
Well, this was an interesting story with some twists and turns. The way some folk’s minds work is often a mystery to others. Course that does keep you reading to see what is going to happen next. The storyline and the characters are great. I really liked the way Julia and Zoey grew in their relationship. I would really like to attend the Snowden Family Clambake! A trip to Lupine Designs would be a must also. I received this book from NetGalley, but my opinion is my own.
July 14, 2022
In the newest book of the “A Maine Clambake Mystery” series, Muddled Through, Julia finds herself watching over her sister Livvie. Livvie’s new job at Lupine Design with her new boss Zoey Butterfield has become dangerous. Not the job itself, but for some reason, someone has it in for Zoey and takes it out on her pottery. Life is never dull where Julia is concerned; a bit lonely for her and sometimes too busy. But otherwise, it's never dangerous unless she sticks her nose into a murder investigation, which she does all too often.
Someone has destroyed Zoey’s pottery showroom, and whoever it is doesn’t stop at just smashing a few pieces of her work. As a backer of the pedestrian mall, Zoey has raised the ire of several locals who do not appreciate “outsiders” moving into town and trying to change things, anything! But this time, someone is killed due to Zoey’s so-called interference in the status quo, or so it seems. Of course, no one would believe that a simple pottery shop and a new resident would cause such a stir, but most didn’t count on the stubbornness and prejudice of the older people who didn’t want anything to ever change or new people to move into town. Or… was the motive for this murder really about something else? Julia isn’t sure, but she decides that she needs to find out.
The characters in this series are always interesting. The dynamic between Julia and her sister and the other characters always keeps readers asking questions. The addition of Zoey and her pottery shop, which is nicely described, adds to the overall feel of a tight-knit community that needs to be brought into the 21st century.
The suspects in Muddled Through are easy to spot. Unfortunately, I found the killer and the overall motive implausible. There are twists and turns and red herrings, but the evidence doesn’t fit correctly. Until the end, I was going back and forth on whether the killer and the person who smashed up Zoey’s pottery were the same individuals. I have to say that when the killer’s identity is revealed and the entire scenario unfurled, It did not work for me; it just seemed too far-fetched to be believable. However, that said, It was still an enjoyable read and kept me happily entertained.
Someone has destroyed Zoey’s pottery showroom, and whoever it is doesn’t stop at just smashing a few pieces of her work. As a backer of the pedestrian mall, Zoey has raised the ire of several locals who do not appreciate “outsiders” moving into town and trying to change things, anything! But this time, someone is killed due to Zoey’s so-called interference in the status quo, or so it seems. Of course, no one would believe that a simple pottery shop and a new resident would cause such a stir, but most didn’t count on the stubbornness and prejudice of the older people who didn’t want anything to ever change or new people to move into town. Or… was the motive for this murder really about something else? Julia isn’t sure, but she decides that she needs to find out.
The characters in this series are always interesting. The dynamic between Julia and her sister and the other characters always keeps readers asking questions. The addition of Zoey and her pottery shop, which is nicely described, adds to the overall feel of a tight-knit community that needs to be brought into the 21st century.
The suspects in Muddled Through are easy to spot. Unfortunately, I found the killer and the overall motive implausible. There are twists and turns and red herrings, but the evidence doesn’t fit correctly. Until the end, I was going back and forth on whether the killer and the person who smashed up Zoey’s pottery were the same individuals. I have to say that when the killer’s identity is revealed and the entire scenario unfurled, It did not work for me; it just seemed too far-fetched to be believable. However, that said, It was still an enjoyable read and kept me happily entertained.
January 23, 2023
In this tenth book of A Maine Clambake Mystery, there are some changes in Busman's Harbor. Julia and Chris have split up, Julia has been asked to vacate the apartment above the restaurant and she has returned home and is living in her childhood bedroom. Her sister is working in a pottery shop off season and the old mansion on Morrow Island is well on it's way with the renovations. Lupine Designs, the shop Livvie works is vandalized and the owner, Zoey Butterfield, is an advocate of a pedestrian mall that many are opposed to, including the owner of the business that shares her building. When he ends up dead in their shared basement, Zoey is the main suspect. Julia is sure that Zoey is innocent and sets out to prove her innocence and find out who the real culprit is.
Once again, Julia uses her skills to solve puzzles, follow clues, use friendships to gather information and work with the police to find answers. I liked the addition of Zoey to Busman's Harbor. She is a smart and talented businessman, but I also like that she is becoming Julia's friend, something she sorely needs. The first thing Julia needs to do is figure out the motive for the murder. Who would want to see the old man dead? With some connections to older residences, sheltered companies and properties that need to be beautified there are a lot of questions. As Julia begins to unravel all the twisty clues, we learn who the culprit is. With Julia in danger adding to the excitement of the showdown, I really enjoyed this story. There were twists, red herrings and a great plot that made this another excellent addition to the Maine Clambake Mystery series. I did a read/listen with this book and enjoyed both formats. Once again, the audiobook was narrated by Dara Rosenberg. She has a great voice and I could easily distinguish between all the different characters including the male voices, which were well done. I always enjoy her performance and recommend either format depending on your preference.
Once again, Julia uses her skills to solve puzzles, follow clues, use friendships to gather information and work with the police to find answers. I liked the addition of Zoey to Busman's Harbor. She is a smart and talented businessman, but I also like that she is becoming Julia's friend, something she sorely needs. The first thing Julia needs to do is figure out the motive for the murder. Who would want to see the old man dead? With some connections to older residences, sheltered companies and properties that need to be beautified there are a lot of questions. As Julia begins to unravel all the twisty clues, we learn who the culprit is. With Julia in danger adding to the excitement of the showdown, I really enjoyed this story. There were twists, red herrings and a great plot that made this another excellent addition to the Maine Clambake Mystery series. I did a read/listen with this book and enjoyed both formats. Once again, the audiobook was narrated by Dara Rosenberg. She has a great voice and I could easily distinguish between all the different characters including the male voices, which were well done. I always enjoy her performance and recommend either format depending on your preference.
March 4, 2022
Julia Snowden helps her family run the Snowden Family Clambake in later spring and summer, when it's warm enough to go out to Morrow Island, which they own. But during the winter and early spring, she's at a loss. Having recently broken up with her long-time boyfriend Chris and moved back home with her mother, she's lonely and wondering how to fill her days. One morning she sees police cars in front of Lupine Designs, where her sister Livvie works in the off-season, and hopes she's alright.
When she arrives, Livvie is fine, but someone has broken into the pottery shop and destroyed everything in view. When the owner, Zoey Butterfield, arrives, she has no idea who would vandalize her shop...unless it might be her neighbor Finney, who shares part of the building as an antique store and dislikes Zoey. But there's no proof, so Zoey is stumped. Later that evening Julia attends a town meeting where Zoey is in favor of a pedestrian mall on the weekends to bring in more business, but many of the townspeople are against it. This only agitates the problems between Zoey and her neighbors.
When, soon after, a body is found in Zoey's basement, the state police -- Lieutenant Binder and Sergeant Flynn -- think Zoey is a prime suspect, and Livvie asks for Julia's help in proving her innocence. But Julia will need more to go on, since she knows next-to-nothing about Zoey. Where is she from? Who are her people? What motives did she have? And more importantly, did she do it?
On top of this, everyone -- including Julia -- is wondering where her personal life is going now that Chris isn't in her life anymore. It's obvious there are some men interested in her, but will Julia go down that path, or put it on the back burner for now? And will she discover who the murderer might be before it's too late for another person?...
This is the tenth book in the series, and I have read them all, looking forward to each one with practical glee. Each book gets better than the former, and this one is no different. Julia is on her own this time out, without Chris in her life, and her family wants to help her -- even if she doesn't want it. When the murder occurs, it's only natural that Julia's innate curiosity -- and cleverness -- get her moving in on the investigation. By this time Binder and Flynn have given up telling her to leave it alone, knowing she isn't going to, but aren't giving her information without anything in return, either. A quid pro quo situation, if you will.
So we have Julia trying to find out more about the elusive Zoey Butterfield, who doesn't appear to be letting the murder bother her; staying calm and collected. Julia wonders why this is so, and starts digging into Zoey's past, with surprising results. She also does her best at quietly questioning people who might have known the deceased well, with more surprising results coming from that quarter, too.
But what starts out as a murder investigation becomes much more so, with threads scattered throughout the mystery, and each one leading to another until we have a tangle of them, all sizes and shapes, that need to be pulled out and woven into something resembling answers. Julia is an expert at this, and it's fun watching her put everything together in only the way she can.
I absolutely adore this series, and all the characters within. There are some surprising things around the corner for Julia, too; and I won't say any more about this except that I think it will be something worth waiting for in the next book. When the murderer is discovered, the motive is both rather twisted and sad, and is never worth the price that one has to pay. I eagerly look forward to the next in the series. Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
When she arrives, Livvie is fine, but someone has broken into the pottery shop and destroyed everything in view. When the owner, Zoey Butterfield, arrives, she has no idea who would vandalize her shop...unless it might be her neighbor Finney, who shares part of the building as an antique store and dislikes Zoey. But there's no proof, so Zoey is stumped. Later that evening Julia attends a town meeting where Zoey is in favor of a pedestrian mall on the weekends to bring in more business, but many of the townspeople are against it. This only agitates the problems between Zoey and her neighbors.
When, soon after, a body is found in Zoey's basement, the state police -- Lieutenant Binder and Sergeant Flynn -- think Zoey is a prime suspect, and Livvie asks for Julia's help in proving her innocence. But Julia will need more to go on, since she knows next-to-nothing about Zoey. Where is she from? Who are her people? What motives did she have? And more importantly, did she do it?
On top of this, everyone -- including Julia -- is wondering where her personal life is going now that Chris isn't in her life anymore. It's obvious there are some men interested in her, but will Julia go down that path, or put it on the back burner for now? And will she discover who the murderer might be before it's too late for another person?...
This is the tenth book in the series, and I have read them all, looking forward to each one with practical glee. Each book gets better than the former, and this one is no different. Julia is on her own this time out, without Chris in her life, and her family wants to help her -- even if she doesn't want it. When the murder occurs, it's only natural that Julia's innate curiosity -- and cleverness -- get her moving in on the investigation. By this time Binder and Flynn have given up telling her to leave it alone, knowing she isn't going to, but aren't giving her information without anything in return, either. A quid pro quo situation, if you will.
So we have Julia trying to find out more about the elusive Zoey Butterfield, who doesn't appear to be letting the murder bother her; staying calm and collected. Julia wonders why this is so, and starts digging into Zoey's past, with surprising results. She also does her best at quietly questioning people who might have known the deceased well, with more surprising results coming from that quarter, too.
But what starts out as a murder investigation becomes much more so, with threads scattered throughout the mystery, and each one leading to another until we have a tangle of them, all sizes and shapes, that need to be pulled out and woven into something resembling answers. Julia is an expert at this, and it's fun watching her put everything together in only the way she can.
I absolutely adore this series, and all the characters within. There are some surprising things around the corner for Julia, too; and I won't say any more about this except that I think it will be something worth waiting for in the next book. When the murderer is discovered, the motive is both rather twisted and sad, and is never worth the price that one has to pay. I eagerly look forward to the next in the series. Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
May 5, 2022
BOOK REVIEW FOR MUDDLED THROUGH BY BARBARA ROSS
I had been excitedly anticipating this book since August of last year (2021) when SCARED OFF,
the last novella about the Maine Clambake Mysteries by author Barbara Ross was published in the anthology HALLOWEEN PARTY MURDER. The wait and anticipation were well worth it, as I expected.
MUDDLED THROUGH’s protagonist Julia Snowden continues to thrill with a new cozy mystery happening in the small town of Busman’s Harbor (I really would like to move there and get to know all its citizens like Gus and the Snuggles sisters who own the Snuggles Inn, plus Julia’s family and supporting cast, who by now feel like old friends.
I read only cozies, and I must say that Barbara Ross’ writing is smooth and intriguing, and never tries to trick the reader with “red herrings”. While reading book #10 I felt at home again, following the ingenious and intricate plot and getting to know the new characters associated with the new tragedy in town. Barbara is brilliant at making her characters come alive, and she gets us involved in the plot right from the start. The other characteristic of Barbara’s outstanding writing skills is the fact that in every book she weaves a learning element for the reader…this time we learn all about Maine’s clay and pottery. Congratulations on doing so much research to teach us about so many aspects of life in Maine, and educating us as we try to sleuth along with Julia.
Julia and I did not guess whodunnit until it was revealed, and it was a surprise, especially since I had placed blame on just about everyone…and I was wrong. Barbara does that every time, and it is wonderful how she does it!
I could not put the book down, and was ever so sorry when it ended, because now I have to wait an immensely long time before the next gourmet treat comes out of Barbara’s oven…
There is another gripping story happening in these books, which is Juila’s love life. I reserve my comments about that, because all of us readers of this series want to know how that is developing. I won’t address what happens in this book to avoid spoilers, but Barbara already knows how my book club and I feel about that. All I can say is that you will be trying to figure that out until the very last page, so have fun with that!
I received an advance copy of this book, and I feel so blessed to be able to share my comments about this awesome book. Thank you, Barbara, for sharing your writing talents with us happy readers!
I had been excitedly anticipating this book since August of last year (2021) when SCARED OFF,
the last novella about the Maine Clambake Mysteries by author Barbara Ross was published in the anthology HALLOWEEN PARTY MURDER. The wait and anticipation were well worth it, as I expected.
MUDDLED THROUGH’s protagonist Julia Snowden continues to thrill with a new cozy mystery happening in the small town of Busman’s Harbor (I really would like to move there and get to know all its citizens like Gus and the Snuggles sisters who own the Snuggles Inn, plus Julia’s family and supporting cast, who by now feel like old friends.
I read only cozies, and I must say that Barbara Ross’ writing is smooth and intriguing, and never tries to trick the reader with “red herrings”. While reading book #10 I felt at home again, following the ingenious and intricate plot and getting to know the new characters associated with the new tragedy in town. Barbara is brilliant at making her characters come alive, and she gets us involved in the plot right from the start. The other characteristic of Barbara’s outstanding writing skills is the fact that in every book she weaves a learning element for the reader…this time we learn all about Maine’s clay and pottery. Congratulations on doing so much research to teach us about so many aspects of life in Maine, and educating us as we try to sleuth along with Julia.
Julia and I did not guess whodunnit until it was revealed, and it was a surprise, especially since I had placed blame on just about everyone…and I was wrong. Barbara does that every time, and it is wonderful how she does it!
I could not put the book down, and was ever so sorry when it ended, because now I have to wait an immensely long time before the next gourmet treat comes out of Barbara’s oven…
There is another gripping story happening in these books, which is Juila’s love life. I reserve my comments about that, because all of us readers of this series want to know how that is developing. I won’t address what happens in this book to avoid spoilers, but Barbara already knows how my book club and I feel about that. All I can say is that you will be trying to figure that out until the very last page, so have fun with that!
I received an advance copy of this book, and I feel so blessed to be able to share my comments about this awesome book. Thank you, Barbara, for sharing your writing talents with us happy readers!
April 19, 2022
This is the tenth book in the series, and I definitely recommend reading them in order.
The author does give information about the characters and setting, but the relationships between the characters would be lost on a newcomer.
That being said, I feel as lost as the mc Julia is in this book. The author gives us a story that takes place at the end of Spring, so just before her family's busy Summer clambake season. Julia has very little interaction with her family and friends in this story, except for her sister, Livvie.
Of the new characters introduced in this book, the older philanthropist has a great storyline. The others fall flat, in my opinion.
The mystery is well written, and it definitely kept me guessing until the end.
I also am hopeful for the next book, as the author is definitely paving the way for a new love interest for Julia, who continues to be enjoyable to read
The author does give information about the characters and setting, but the relationships between the characters would be lost on a newcomer.
That being said, I feel as lost as the mc Julia is in this book. The author gives us a story that takes place at the end of Spring, so just before her family's busy Summer clambake season. Julia has very little interaction with her family and friends in this story, except for her sister, Livvie.
Of the new characters introduced in this book, the older philanthropist has a great storyline. The others fall flat, in my opinion.
The mystery is well written, and it definitely kept me guessing until the end.
I also am hopeful for the next book, as the author is definitely paving the way for a new love interest for Julia, who continues to be enjoyable to read
July 24, 2022
Great book! It was fun being back in Busman's Harbor, and seeing all the characters from prior books in this series!! And the premise of the murder was interesting. I will admit that while I was trying to guess the murderer, I was completely off base. And then there's the puzzle of which of the guys in this book are a good match for Julia. I can't wait for the next one to (maybe) find out!!
May 3, 2022
MUDDLED THROUGH by Barbara Ross is the tenth book in the Maine Clambake Mysteries. A long-time fan of this delightful series, I eagerly await with anticipation to find out what feature of Maine the author will reveal for the new release. In this newest addition, it’s mud season and I enjoyed the skillful way the theme was woven into the storyline. Of course, the setting of Maine isn’t the only thing that brings me back again and again to the series. With strong characters, unique settings, and tightly plotted mysteries, Ms. Ross continues to be a fan favorite. If you’re new to the series, you can read this as a standalone, but trust me, you’ll greatly enjoy starting at the beginning and following the journey of protagonist Julia Snowden, along with her family and friends. Julia is a strong young woman, but with the last book, life has thrown some challenges at her with the demise of her relationship to Chris, and losing both her apartment and her winter job running a supper restaurant. She’s still trying to figure things out but, in the meantime, murder strikes Busman’s Harbor again, this time affecting her sister, Livvie’s boss and friend, Zoey.
The action starts right from the very first page and continues with plenty of intriguing suspects. I appreciate the loyalty Julia shows to both Livvie and Zoey, despite circumstances and clues pointing at Zoey’s guilt over the death of her cantankerous shop neighbor. Thrown into the mix is a controversial pedestrian mall that is dividing the town. As Julia hunts for clues and talks to townspeople, it becomes apparent there are several people hiding secrets, including the prime suspect, Zoey. With a fast-paced plot, I quickly turned the pages to find out what happened next and with an edge-of-your-seat reveal I didn’t see coming, the threads of the story wrapped up into a memorable read.
As with previous books, there are recipes included that showcase the flavors of Maine and/or have a family connection to the author.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The action starts right from the very first page and continues with plenty of intriguing suspects. I appreciate the loyalty Julia shows to both Livvie and Zoey, despite circumstances and clues pointing at Zoey’s guilt over the death of her cantankerous shop neighbor. Thrown into the mix is a controversial pedestrian mall that is dividing the town. As Julia hunts for clues and talks to townspeople, it becomes apparent there are several people hiding secrets, including the prime suspect, Zoey. With a fast-paced plot, I quickly turned the pages to find out what happened next and with an edge-of-your-seat reveal I didn’t see coming, the threads of the story wrapped up into a memorable read.
As with previous books, there are recipes included that showcase the flavors of Maine and/or have a family connection to the author.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 28, 2022
Julia's sister works at Lupine Design so when she sees several police cars in front of the shop early one morning she runs to make sure Livvie is okay. Someone has broken into the shop and smashed up all the pottery. The owner close by digging for clay and is shocked when she finds out about her shop. Her neighbor shop owner doesn't like her so he is a likely suspect but there is also the on going argument over putting g in a pedestrian mall. When her neighbor shop owner is found.dead in their shared basement Zoey immediately becomes the main suspect. Livvie asks Julia to look into the murder she doesn't believe her boss is guilty. Julia agrees to help and starts asking questions. She begins to Learn quite a bit about the dead man and not all.of it's good. Join Julia in her search for the truth, will she find a killer or will Zoey end up behind bars?
February 27, 2024
With this book I have to say goodbye to Julia and the gang in Busman’s Harbor, Maine. I have completed the series and will look forward to Book #12 in the near future.
April 18, 2025
4 stelle e mezza
Arrivata a un importante indizio, avevo capito il movente, ma avevo puntato sulla persona sbagliata come colpevole; prima di allora propendevo per un altro, anche questo sbagliato. Insomma, stavolta il colpevole non era proprio entrato nel mio radar e sono rimasta sorpresa. Alla fine c'è un'allusione che sembra puntare a una certa, possibile svolta per la protagonista: confesso che spero di aver ragione perché è praticamente dal primo libro o quasi che vorrei che si avverasse...
Arrivata a un importante indizio, avevo capito il movente, ma avevo puntato sulla persona sbagliata come colpevole; prima di allora propendevo per un altro, anche questo sbagliato. Insomma, stavolta il colpevole non era proprio entrato nel mio radar e sono rimasta sorpresa. Alla fine c'è un'allusione che sembra puntare a una certa, possibile svolta per la protagonista: confesso che spero di aver ragione perché è praticamente dal primo libro o quasi che vorrei che si avverasse...
July 12, 2022
Muddled Through is the tenth book in the Maine Clambake Mystery series by Barbara Ross and the books just get better and better as you get deeper into the series.
In Muddled Through it is springtime in Busman's Harbor which means it is down time for most of the residents and businesses. That is all but a few included a fairly new business, Lupine Designs. Main character Julia Snowden's sister Livvie works at Lupine Designs in the offseason when the Snowden Family Clambake is closed. Julia and her ex-boyfriend Chris use to live above Gus's restaurant and in the offseason they would run it so Gus could have time off......unfortunately this is the first year that they are not doing that as Julia broke up with Chris and Gus needed the studio apartment above the restaurant for family so Julia is back living in her old bedroom in the family house residing with her mom.
There are some changes occurring in Busman's Harbor and one of the things that the townspeople cannot agree on is a pedestrian mall that will run during the summer on weekends. Some people are adamant about not having the pedestrian mall and are very vocal at a town meeting. After the town meeting Lupine Designs is vandalized and fingers are pointed towards Phinney Hardison seeing as his business is in the same building and they share the basement.....and there is no secret that Phinney and Zoey, the owner of Lupine Designs do not get along.....and when he is found murdered in the middle of the night in the shared basement, the only suspect the police are looking at is Zoey.
When Livvie askis Julia to help prove Zoey's innocence, she has no idea what that entails. As Julia gets to know Zoey, she realizes that she likes her and can see them as becoming close friends....but is Zoey guilty with keeping secrets like Chris was ......
Julia has no idea that Zoey's past plays a huge part in what is happening currently and as she digs in, she may just bury herself and Zoey......
Readers will LOVE this series !!! The town of Busman's Harbor is one you will want to visit regularly. You will love the people and the shops and the businesses.....you will have no problem overlooking the murders that occur because you know Julia will be looking into them and you know she won't stop until the guilty party is arrested !!!
In Muddled Through it is springtime in Busman's Harbor which means it is down time for most of the residents and businesses. That is all but a few included a fairly new business, Lupine Designs. Main character Julia Snowden's sister Livvie works at Lupine Designs in the offseason when the Snowden Family Clambake is closed. Julia and her ex-boyfriend Chris use to live above Gus's restaurant and in the offseason they would run it so Gus could have time off......unfortunately this is the first year that they are not doing that as Julia broke up with Chris and Gus needed the studio apartment above the restaurant for family so Julia is back living in her old bedroom in the family house residing with her mom.
There are some changes occurring in Busman's Harbor and one of the things that the townspeople cannot agree on is a pedestrian mall that will run during the summer on weekends. Some people are adamant about not having the pedestrian mall and are very vocal at a town meeting. After the town meeting Lupine Designs is vandalized and fingers are pointed towards Phinney Hardison seeing as his business is in the same building and they share the basement.....and there is no secret that Phinney and Zoey, the owner of Lupine Designs do not get along.....and when he is found murdered in the middle of the night in the shared basement, the only suspect the police are looking at is Zoey.
When Livvie askis Julia to help prove Zoey's innocence, she has no idea what that entails. As Julia gets to know Zoey, she realizes that she likes her and can see them as becoming close friends....but is Zoey guilty with keeping secrets like Chris was ......
Julia has no idea that Zoey's past plays a huge part in what is happening currently and as she digs in, she may just bury herself and Zoey......
Readers will LOVE this series !!! The town of Busman's Harbor is one you will want to visit regularly. You will love the people and the shops and the businesses.....you will have no problem overlooking the murders that occur because you know Julia will be looking into them and you know she won't stop until the guilty party is arrested !!!
July 1, 2022
Muddled Through is the 10th book in the Maine Clambake Mystery series by Barbara Ross. In this book, I was pleased to be reacquainted with the proprietor of The Snowden Family Clambake Company, Julia Snowden of Busman’s Harbor, Maine. Julia helps out when her sister, Livvie, a potter at Lupine Design owned by Zoey Butterfield, gets into a spot of bother and the police are called. Zoey is supporting plans to turn part of the main street into a pedestrian mall during the summer and other tourist-friendly changes proposed for the town. Following a town meeting, Phinney Hardison, who shares space with Zoey, from where he sells antiques, is found dead.
Although book 10 in the Maine Clambake Mystery series, this can be enjoyed as a stand-alone. With a compelling plot, drama aplenty, a great bunch of characters, and oodles of mayhem added to the mix, this was a fantastic read that kept me on my toes. The writing style of Barbara Ross is a good fit for me. Trying to unravel the mystery in the pockets of Julia was lots of fun and I welcomed the comfortable pace as well as the neatly packaged ending. I would like to backtrack and devour the eight books I've missed in this series as I thoroughly enjoyed Muddled Through and I'm game to see what adventures befall Julia and the Busman's Harbor crowd, next. The book leaves the reader with recipes to salivate over. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
Although book 10 in the Maine Clambake Mystery series, this can be enjoyed as a stand-alone. With a compelling plot, drama aplenty, a great bunch of characters, and oodles of mayhem added to the mix, this was a fantastic read that kept me on my toes. The writing style of Barbara Ross is a good fit for me. Trying to unravel the mystery in the pockets of Julia was lots of fun and I welcomed the comfortable pace as well as the neatly packaged ending. I would like to backtrack and devour the eight books I've missed in this series as I thoroughly enjoyed Muddled Through and I'm game to see what adventures befall Julia and the Busman's Harbor crowd, next. The book leaves the reader with recipes to salivate over. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
July 8, 2023
This is one of, if not the best, book I've read in the series. Julia shows some depth. Instead of being a cardboard cutout, like most cozy mystery protagonists, she shows flaws and real emotions, including jealousy and a temper. I found her friendship with Zoey quite touching, especially near the end of the book, though I'm not sure why. I hope we see more of Zoey in subsequent books. I also wish lobster was more available here so I could make the stew!
Other series I've read have lost steam and become treacle as the books progressed, but this one keeps getting stronger, which gives me hope. I love that there are single women in this book who are powerful and successful in their own right, and who aren't always mooning over a man.
Thanks so much for writing a series where women don't crumble into bits for lack of a man in their lives. It's refreshing, and much appreciated by this reader. I just wish the over-emphasis on everyone's age would stop. It approaches ageism sometimes.
Other series I've read have lost steam and become treacle as the books progressed, but this one keeps getting stronger, which gives me hope. I love that there are single women in this book who are powerful and successful in their own right, and who aren't always mooning over a man.
Thanks so much for writing a series where women don't crumble into bits for lack of a man in their lives. It's refreshing, and much appreciated by this reader. I just wish the over-emphasis on everyone's age would stop. It approaches ageism sometimes.
October 16, 2022
Since it is off season who learn more about Julia's sister, Livvie. Livvie is working with Zoey at Lupine Design creating pottery. Julia notices that there are police officers Lupine Design as she is going for her morning walk and wants to make sure her sister is ok. There was a break in but Livvie is ok. A few days later then the person who was renting the other half of the building was murdered in the basement. The officers believe that Zoey did this but Julia is not certain about that. When Julia brings Zoey to the mansion on the island to help her decide about how to design her own portion upstairs Livvie gives her some great ideas. I like it that we can visualize more of the mansion as Julia describes and walks Zoey through. Julia is determined to find out who really did the destruction to the pottery and who really killed the next door shop owner and hopefully not get hurt in the process.
April 26, 2022
I enjoy this series for its atmospheric setting on coastal Maine and great charcters. This book takes place in April which is a muddy season in Maine and is referenced throughout this book. This is the 10th in series and I have enjoyed the entire series. The charcters all add to the fun of each book and are familiar as old friends. Its a pleasant read and a fun series to return to . Thank you to the publisher and to Netgalley. My review opinion is my own.
This takes place at a local pottery shop. Julia Snowden helps the business owner find out who vandalized her shop. Then the vandalizing suspect commits a murder and Julia is on the case. The sleuth was well rounded and had plenty of red herrings to keep readers guessing. It was a fun mystery to conclusion.
This takes place at a local pottery shop. Julia Snowden helps the business owner find out who vandalized her shop. Then the vandalizing suspect commits a murder and Julia is on the case. The sleuth was well rounded and had plenty of red herrings to keep readers guessing. It was a fun mystery to conclusion.
March 17, 2022
Livvie asks her sister to help her boss, Zoey after a man is murdered in the basement of her business/home.
Julia agrees to help, and has been an asset to the police in other investigations in the past.
This is the 10th book in the series.
There are defined characters and plenty of twists and surprises.
This was the first book in this series I have read, and it is a standalone book with all of the major questions being answered.
This is also the first book I've read from this author and want to go back to the beginning and start from book 1.
I'd like to thank NetGalley and the author for allowing me to read this advanced copy.
Julia agrees to help, and has been an asset to the police in other investigations in the past.
This is the 10th book in the series.
There are defined characters and plenty of twists and surprises.
This was the first book in this series I have read, and it is a standalone book with all of the major questions being answered.
This is also the first book I've read from this author and want to go back to the beginning and start from book 1.
I'd like to thank NetGalley and the author for allowing me to read this advanced copy.
July 30, 2022
I always eagerly await the next installment in one of my favorite cozy mystery series, the Maine Clambake series. I really enjoy the characters as well as the setting and the mysteries. Though I've only visited the southern tip of Maine once, Ms Ross brings the state, the food, people, settings, flowers and customs alive through her vivid descriptions. This book had quite a progression with some of the main characters, as well as introducing what appears to be a new, really good friend for our girl Julia Snowden. Throughly enjoyed!
June 15, 2022
I enjoy every visit I make to Busman's Harbor, ME, and the Snowden Family Clambake. The residents feel like friends. I liked learning more about the town itself and the shop owners rather than being on the island. The mystery was well-paced and kept me reading late into the night. I love everything about this series and can't wait for the next one.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
November 14, 2024
Livvie asks Julia to help clear her boss in a murder investigation
What I enjoyed:
* It looks like Julia is finally getting over Chris
* I really liked Zoey and it was good for Julia to make a new friend
* It was interesting to learn about pottery
What could have been better:
* 3 men seem interested in Julia, so we might be back to love triangles
* I understand people change, but I don't like investing multiple books into a pretty serious relationship for it to crumble
What I enjoyed:
* It looks like Julia is finally getting over Chris
* I really liked Zoey and it was good for Julia to make a new friend
* It was interesting to learn about pottery
What could have been better:
* 3 men seem interested in Julia, so we might be back to love triangles
* I understand people change, but I don't like investing multiple books into a pretty serious relationship for it to crumble
June 26, 2022
Julia’s day starts off with police cars in front of Lupine Design, a pottery shop where her sister Livvie works. Julia finds the shop a disaster with broken pottery all over the floor. Fortunately, no one is injured. Livvie asks Julia for her help in finding the guilty party. I once again enjoyed my trip to Busman’s Harbor, Maine. Great characters, tough mystery, and a few surprises.
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