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A Local Foods Mystery #3
Farmed and Dangerous
When a bad biddy bites the dust after biting into poisoned produce, a Massachusetts organic farmer must clear her name in this cozy mystery. Cam is finding the New Year in Westbury just as hectic as the old one. Her sometimes rocky relationship with Chef Jake Ericsson is in a deep freeze, she’s struggling to provide the promised amount of food to the subscribers in her first winter CSA, and her new greenhouse might just collapse from the weight of the snow. Supplying fresh ingredients for a dinner at the local assisted living facility seems like the least of her worries—until one of the elderly residents dies after eating some of her produce. Cantankerous Bev Montgomery had many enemies, from an unscrupulous real estate developer who coveted her land to an aggrieved care provider fed up with her verbal abuse. But while the motives in this case may be plentiful, the trail of poisoned produce leads straight back to Cam. Not even her budding romance with police detective Pete Pappas will keep him from investigating her. As the suspects gather, a blizzard buries the scene of the crime under a blanket of snow, leaving Cam stranded in the dark with a killer who gives new meaning to the phrase “dead of winter.”
Praise for ‘Til Dirt Do Us Part“There are plenty of farming-based cozies on the market today, but this one stands out.”—Booklist “Engaging. On top of the intriguing whodunit plot, Maxwell vividly portrays life on a small contemporary farm.”—Publishers Weekly “A most enjoyable look at organic farming with some charming characters and cooking suggestions thrown in.”—Kirkus Reviews
Praise for ‘Til Dirt Do Us Part“There are plenty of farming-based cozies on the market today, but this one stands out.”—Booklist “Engaging. On top of the intriguing whodunit plot, Maxwell vividly portrays life on a small contemporary farm.”—Publishers Weekly “A most enjoyable look at organic farming with some charming characters and cooking suggestions thrown in.”—Kirkus Reviews
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2015
186 people are currently reading
1131 people want to read
About the author
Maddie Day
29 books1,561 followersMaddie Day is a pseudonym for Agatha Award-winning mystery author Edith Maxwell.
As Maddie Day, Edith writes the Country Store Mysteries, from Kensington, set in southern Indiana. Maddie lived in the area some years ago and loves writing the adventures of Robbie Jordan, a country store owner and chef in South Lick, Indiana.
She also writes the Cozy Capers Book Group Mysteries, with bike shop owner Mackenzie Almeida and her cozy mystery book group solving murders in a fictional Cape Cod village.
Her new Cece Barton Mysteries series, set northern California wine country, releases in fall, 2023
Please see Edith Maxwell's author page for more information about her other mystery series and her award-winning short stories.
As Maddie Day, Edith writes the Country Store Mysteries, from Kensington, set in southern Indiana. Maddie lived in the area some years ago and loves writing the adventures of Robbie Jordan, a country store owner and chef in South Lick, Indiana.
She also writes the Cozy Capers Book Group Mysteries, with bike shop owner Mackenzie Almeida and her cozy mystery book group solving murders in a fictional Cape Cod village.
Her new Cece Barton Mysteries series, set northern California wine country, releases in fall, 2023
Please see Edith Maxwell's author page for more information about her other mystery series and her award-winning short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
June 1, 2023
Good mystery
I enjoyed this entry in the series. It was interesting reading about how Cam is farming in the winter. The characters are fun. I also enjoyed the mentions of other fictional characters who aren’t even written by this author but their settings are nearby. Recipes are included which I always enjoy.
I enjoyed this entry in the series. It was interesting reading about how Cam is farming in the winter. The characters are fun. I also enjoyed the mentions of other fictional characters who aren’t even written by this author but their settings are nearby. Recipes are included which I always enjoy.
May 7, 2015
I haven't read any of the other Local Food Mysteries and wasn't sure what to expect. This was a very good read. You can start with this book and not miss a thing that has happened. It has a great mystery and can be quite funny at times. I can't wait for another.
May 4, 2016
Life on Cam's farm is not as ideal as she would like it to be. She is finding it difficult to provide the promised amount of food to her customers. With a brutal winter in New England and the snow heading their way. Winter is not a great season for Cam on her farm that was given to her by her great uncle Albert who is now residing in a assisted living home.
Cam is providing her farm fresh vegetables for a dinner at the assisted living home where her uncle resides. She is hoping to obtain a contract to keep providing them with the vegetables thoughout the season but that will not likely happen when a resident, Bev Montgomery dies after eating the produce that was part of the dinner prepared by cook, Rosemary.
Soon after that another resident dies of mysterious circumstances and Cam is worried herself to the core and she becomes her boyfriend and police detective, Pete's number one suspect and is questioned at the police station. Cam soon fears for her life after she is nearly run down by the same car twice and locked in her barn's root cellar.
There are many reasons for wanting "Moran Manor" resident Bev dead. She was not well liked, well maybe except for Great uncle Albert as she aided in taking care of his dying wife, Marie. Even her daughter Ginger may want her dead. But no matter who is suspected it was still in Cam's produce and with a near fatal fall of her uncle Albert she now has more reason to worry but it only makes Cam more determined to find a killer.
I loved learning the in's and out's of Cam's life on the farm more than I thought I would. Being a foodie I love knowing about where food comes from and this Farmed and Dangerous did not disappoint. You won't help but fall in love with author Edith Maxwell's characters in the A Local Foods Mysteries and loath a few of them too. A very entertaining and "cozy" mystery that had me rooted to my seat until the end.
Cam is providing her farm fresh vegetables for a dinner at the assisted living home where her uncle resides. She is hoping to obtain a contract to keep providing them with the vegetables thoughout the season but that will not likely happen when a resident, Bev Montgomery dies after eating the produce that was part of the dinner prepared by cook, Rosemary.
Soon after that another resident dies of mysterious circumstances and Cam is worried herself to the core and she becomes her boyfriend and police detective, Pete's number one suspect and is questioned at the police station. Cam soon fears for her life after she is nearly run down by the same car twice and locked in her barn's root cellar.
There are many reasons for wanting "Moran Manor" resident Bev dead. She was not well liked, well maybe except for Great uncle Albert as she aided in taking care of his dying wife, Marie. Even her daughter Ginger may want her dead. But no matter who is suspected it was still in Cam's produce and with a near fatal fall of her uncle Albert she now has more reason to worry but it only makes Cam more determined to find a killer.
I loved learning the in's and out's of Cam's life on the farm more than I thought I would. Being a foodie I love knowing about where food comes from and this Farmed and Dangerous did not disappoint. You won't help but fall in love with author Edith Maxwell's characters in the A Local Foods Mysteries and loath a few of them too. A very entertaining and "cozy" mystery that had me rooted to my seat until the end.
February 25, 2015
I devoured Edith Maxwell’s _Farmed and Dangerous_ with all the enthusiasm of a locavore presented with farm to table organic salad. I was so captivated by plot and characters that most of my “must do” items had to wait as I instead enjoyed this “want to read” book.
Suspense, intrigue, romance, and humor carried me on a wild adventure. Characters rang true, and even the worst curmudgeon had some lovable traits. The animals were individuals as well, dogs, cats, and crazy chickens, and their interactions carried their own suspense.
Cameron Flaherty is a strong female, finding her way out of trouble, helping others, loving family and friends, and standing up for them and herself. My kinda gal! Dating a guy who is unreasonably jealous and angry? Move on . . . find someone with a kinder, saner outlook, or enjoy one's solitary life. Dependence on a wrong guy can make one’s life miserable. The strong example in this book started me thinking of the many women, fictional and real, who stand up for themselves, don’t give up, and don’t put up with meanness.
Reading about cold weather and blizzards in the middle of a midwest cold wave felt very real (but could also be a relief from the heat of summer). The greenhouse scenes resonated true as “my” Terripin Farms CSA happened to simultaneously post photos of the new plantings in their greenhouse. I'm amazed that dedicated and hard-working farmers can actually grow greens in such cold weather. I was introduced to other farming tools and ideas: Certified natural grower, vacuum seeders, vermiculture, solar panels, radiant heat, berms and swales, global climate change, dangers of G-Phos, . . . and ideas for cooking these gifts from the farm.
The retirement home scenes rang true, including the reluctance of many to try new things and the difference caring staff and good friendships can make.
May 24, 2015
Farmed and Dangerous by Edith Maxwell is the third book in the Local Foods Mystery series. Cameron Flaherty is running Attic Hill Farm (took it over from her Uncle Albert) and trying to make a go of it during the winter. She has established hoop houses and is growing greens in them for her customers. Cameron has a chance to get a contract with Moran Manor to provide produce during the summer. Cameron’s Uncle Albert lives at Moran Manor and Cameron visits him frequently.
Cameron is on a date with Detective Pete Pappas when he gets called to a death at Moran Manor. Beverly Montgomery is dead (Cameron has had problems with her in the past when Beverly still lived at her farm). Beverly was not a popular person. She frequently rubbed people the wrong way especially her caregiver, Oscar. Her daughter, Ginger, wanted the farm for real estate development, but Beverly wanted it to be kept a farm. In order for Pete to investigate the case, he has to distance himself from Cameron (her food might have poisoned Beverly). The next day Miss Lacey, who also lives at Moran Manor, dies. What is going on?
Cameron sets out to solve the case and clear her name. She cannot afford to have her name nor the farm’s associated with these deaths. When Uncle Albert is found on the floor in his room with a head wound, Cameron is determined to get answers. I was thoroughly delighted with Farmed and Dangerous. Another great addition to the Local Foods Mystery series. I give Farmed and Dangerous 5 out of 5 stars. Farmed and Dangerous had great characters, a good mystery with twists, interesting information about growing vegetables and herbs in winter, and a little romance. What more can a reader ask for in a cozy mystery! Farmed and Dangerous can easily be read without reading the first two books in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of Farmed and Dangerous by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The review and opinions expressed are strictly my own.
http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...
Cameron is on a date with Detective Pete Pappas when he gets called to a death at Moran Manor. Beverly Montgomery is dead (Cameron has had problems with her in the past when Beverly still lived at her farm). Beverly was not a popular person. She frequently rubbed people the wrong way especially her caregiver, Oscar. Her daughter, Ginger, wanted the farm for real estate development, but Beverly wanted it to be kept a farm. In order for Pete to investigate the case, he has to distance himself from Cameron (her food might have poisoned Beverly). The next day Miss Lacey, who also lives at Moran Manor, dies. What is going on?
Cameron sets out to solve the case and clear her name. She cannot afford to have her name nor the farm’s associated with these deaths. When Uncle Albert is found on the floor in his room with a head wound, Cameron is determined to get answers. I was thoroughly delighted with Farmed and Dangerous. Another great addition to the Local Foods Mystery series. I give Farmed and Dangerous 5 out of 5 stars. Farmed and Dangerous had great characters, a good mystery with twists, interesting information about growing vegetables and herbs in winter, and a little romance. What more can a reader ask for in a cozy mystery! Farmed and Dangerous can easily be read without reading the first two books in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of Farmed and Dangerous by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The review and opinions expressed are strictly my own.
http://bibliophileandavidreader.blogs...
April 14, 2021
Looking for something lighter but not all-out chick-lit, I came across this book in my stash. As a farmer, the title and cover art appealed to me. I found it heavy on "must buy organic" and "must hate Monsanto" but the story itself wasn't too bad, I especially liked the animals. It was a quick, easy read and a first for me in the Cozy Mystery genre.
May 31, 2015
This was the first book in this series I have read but will move the others to the top of my TBR pile as fast as I can.
If you know anything about eastern US winters, and in particular how difficult attempting to farm during winter can be, then you will have a great appreciation for Cameron Flaherty. She was not born to being a farmer, and has only recently become fully responsible for her own farm, which used to belong to her great- uncle. Cam is trying to make her crops healthier and her processes as humane as possible. Not an easy or inexpensive process, but immensely worse when someone may be out to kill your friends, loved ones and quite possibly you if you ask too many questions.
Cam is a determined young woman up for a challenge, but when her opportunity to have her fresh grown produce noticed by a potential major customer, and people start dying right after her big meal, Cam not only fears that her contract will be null and void, but additional lives may be endangered. Is someone trying to frame Cam for the murders?
Filled with delightful friendships and people of all ages willing to help each other out, forming a wonderful sense of community, there are enough clues and suspects here to keep you wondering who-dunnit until the very last pages.
As one person is taken away in handcuffs, could there be someone else with secrets?
Have all the questions been answered?
Any cozy mystery reader will be delighted and pulled deep into this third book of the series.
It does a wonderful job as a stand alone but, like me, I know you will want to read them all.
I did receive a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I wish I could share some favorite moments without them being spoilers!
If you know anything about eastern US winters, and in particular how difficult attempting to farm during winter can be, then you will have a great appreciation for Cameron Flaherty. She was not born to being a farmer, and has only recently become fully responsible for her own farm, which used to belong to her great- uncle. Cam is trying to make her crops healthier and her processes as humane as possible. Not an easy or inexpensive process, but immensely worse when someone may be out to kill your friends, loved ones and quite possibly you if you ask too many questions.
Cam is a determined young woman up for a challenge, but when her opportunity to have her fresh grown produce noticed by a potential major customer, and people start dying right after her big meal, Cam not only fears that her contract will be null and void, but additional lives may be endangered. Is someone trying to frame Cam for the murders?
Filled with delightful friendships and people of all ages willing to help each other out, forming a wonderful sense of community, there are enough clues and suspects here to keep you wondering who-dunnit until the very last pages.
As one person is taken away in handcuffs, could there be someone else with secrets?
Have all the questions been answered?
Any cozy mystery reader will be delighted and pulled deep into this third book of the series.
It does a wonderful job as a stand alone but, like me, I know you will want to read them all.
I did receive a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I wish I could share some favorite moments without them being spoilers!
May 12, 2015
Farmed and Dangerous is a mystery as fresh and delicious as the organic produce Cam grows at Attic Hill Farm.
Drumming up business for her organic farm isn't easy. Luckily, Cam convinces the assisted living facility where her Great uncle Albert lives to try using her produce. When Bev Montgomery dies after eating a dinner prepared with Cam's produce, Cam finds herself a person of interest in a murder investigation and her relationship with Detective Pete Pappas put on hold.
The cantankerous Bev Montgomery was better at making enemies than friends, and potential suspects abound. After her uncle suffers a head injury, Cam knows it's high time to find answers before she loses her livelihood and her life.
Edith Maxwell does a wonderful job of incorporating information about organic farming methods. I was tickled by the parts about Cam's chickens and Preston, her Norwegian Forest Cat. The scene at the end where Preston runs out the cat door chased by Ruffles the rooster is adorable.
The mystery kept me guessing. The number of suspects who had motive and means made determining whodunit difficult. I can highly recommend Farmed and Dangerous to armchair detectives that like a mystery that is light on violence but with a well developed plot.
As a bonus, Farmed and Dangerous includes an assortment of delicious recipes.
Farmed and Dangerous is the third Local Foods Mystery by Edith Maxwell. The series can be read out of order. The book is available for pre-order and will be released May 26, 2015
I received a copy of Farmed and Dangerous from the publisher and net galley.com in exchange for an honest review.
--Crittermom
Drumming up business for her organic farm isn't easy. Luckily, Cam convinces the assisted living facility where her Great uncle Albert lives to try using her produce. When Bev Montgomery dies after eating a dinner prepared with Cam's produce, Cam finds herself a person of interest in a murder investigation and her relationship with Detective Pete Pappas put on hold.
The cantankerous Bev Montgomery was better at making enemies than friends, and potential suspects abound. After her uncle suffers a head injury, Cam knows it's high time to find answers before she loses her livelihood and her life.
Edith Maxwell does a wonderful job of incorporating information about organic farming methods. I was tickled by the parts about Cam's chickens and Preston, her Norwegian Forest Cat. The scene at the end where Preston runs out the cat door chased by Ruffles the rooster is adorable.
The mystery kept me guessing. The number of suspects who had motive and means made determining whodunit difficult. I can highly recommend Farmed and Dangerous to armchair detectives that like a mystery that is light on violence but with a well developed plot.
As a bonus, Farmed and Dangerous includes an assortment of delicious recipes.
Farmed and Dangerous is the third Local Foods Mystery by Edith Maxwell. The series can be read out of order. The book is available for pre-order and will be released May 26, 2015
I received a copy of Farmed and Dangerous from the publisher and net galley.com in exchange for an honest review.
--Crittermom
June 22, 2015
This series seems to improve with every book. In this one a woman dies at the senior care home where Cam's uncle lives. Cam is a person of interest because she supplied the fresh greens for the meal.
Most of the book deals with Cam and her life on her organic farm during winter. It's not an easy life. Cam is very industrious and hard working, which makes her very likeable. The mystery itself is rather secondary. However, there is still plenty of action as it's obvious someone has it out for Cam since she keeps having close calls that can't be explained otherwise.
However, there are two sour notes. One, I really didn't like how Pete, her boyfriend, chooses the investigation over their relationship. He should've handled that better. They make up in the end, but I didn't like how he treated her through most of the book. I don't know if I'd have been that forgiving. Two, I didn't like how the death of one of her chickens, TopKnot, is treated so lightly. Sure, she's just a little chicken, but still, I hated how she died and no one seemed that sorry the poor thing froze to death because Cam didn't get her back into her coop soon enough. Don't get me attached to an critter and then kill it off. That's just a personal pet peeve of mine.
Overall,it's a good, solid mystery and I loved how Pete's dog is the real hero in the end.
Most of the book deals with Cam and her life on her organic farm during winter. It's not an easy life. Cam is very industrious and hard working, which makes her very likeable. The mystery itself is rather secondary. However, there is still plenty of action as it's obvious someone has it out for Cam since she keeps having close calls that can't be explained otherwise.
However, there are two sour notes. One, I really didn't like how Pete, her boyfriend, chooses the investigation over their relationship. He should've handled that better. They make up in the end, but I didn't like how he treated her through most of the book. I don't know if I'd have been that forgiving. Two, I didn't like how the death of one of her chickens, TopKnot, is treated so lightly. Sure, she's just a little chicken, but still, I hated how she died and no one seemed that sorry the poor thing froze to death because Cam didn't get her back into her coop soon enough. Don't get me attached to an critter and then kill it off. That's just a personal pet peeve of mine.
Overall,it's a good, solid mystery and I loved how Pete's dog is the real hero in the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2015
This is the first Local Food Mystery that I have read, but it won't be my last. I really enjoyed this book. I liked reading about Cam's organic farming and her antics with her "rescue" chickens. When an elderly lady dies after eating greens that Cam has provided for the local retirement home, Cam is a person-of-interest, so she has to try to figure out who the real killer is. Cam gets herself into some scary situations, and it doesn't help that it is the middle of winter and very cold. This book will keep you guessing till the end and there are a lot of twists and turns.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest review
May 26, 2015
A great book to read this summer. Our lovely contemporary farmer has her work cut out for her. Edith Maxwell describes the snow and cold so well that you will almost shiver. Maintaining a living during the winter on a farm isn't easy. But she also needs to solve the mysteries of the senior citizen home where her great uncle lives. Trying not to put herself into danger while investigating is not always successful. Engaging and entertaining reading.
May 11, 2015
I am sorry I didn't read the earlier books. I found this book very refreshing. The characters are well developed and very likable. The best thing about the book is that I actually learned something about organic farming. I will be reading more from this author. Just a note I received this book through Net Galley.
August 10, 2017
This was an interesting read. I enjoyed reading about her efforts to produce share baskets for her customers in the dead of winter and the details of greenhouse operation, as well as others in the local farm to table community. It was a good mystery.
I downgraded my rating to three because of how the author created tensions in the story line, riveting though they were, by putting Cam into dangerous situations that were the actually consequences of Cam's acting like nitwit beforehand.
This drives me bananas in cozy mysteries. Is there no other way to put a heroine in harm's way without having her make airhead decisions in the first place? Ignoring an oncoming blizzard? Not locking doors behind her when there's a murderer in the area? You can see just see the trouble coming. Come on, can't we make heroines brighter than this?
I downgraded my rating to three because of how the author created tensions in the story line, riveting though they were, by putting Cam into dangerous situations that were the actually consequences of Cam's acting like nitwit beforehand.
This drives me bananas in cozy mysteries. Is there no other way to put a heroine in harm's way without having her make airhead decisions in the first place? Ignoring an oncoming blizzard? Not locking doors behind her when there's a murderer in the area? You can see just see the trouble coming. Come on, can't we make heroines brighter than this?
May 12, 2015
I'm a sucker for a good cosy mystery and this one fits the bill perfectly. Farmed and Dangerous has all the required elements: a spunky amateur detective, quirky and likable characters, both young and old, a charming small town/rural setting, endearing animals, and even some good recipes. I didn't guess the solution, but the clues were all there. Thanks Goodreads for sending this charming read.
October 3, 2016
A great whodunit story. Very cozy and enticing. The characters seem real. I read all night,it was so hard to put own. I love trying to solve the mystery before I reach the end of the story.
June 7, 2018
Cameron Flaherty left the software industry and now runs an organic farm by herself--GIRL POWER! Raises chickens and all. In the meantime, she solves the murders that keep happening around her.
I'm loving this series. I love Cam, the way she's such a normal person who's just trying to devote herself to her work. And of course I love Uncle Albert. There are 5 books in the series (so far). I'm looking forward to reading the next (and finding out how her love life is coming along), but I will be sad when I have finished the last book.
I'm loving this series. I love Cam, the way she's such a normal person who's just trying to devote herself to her work. And of course I love Uncle Albert. There are 5 books in the series (so far). I'm looking forward to reading the next (and finding out how her love life is coming along), but I will be sad when I have finished the last book.
April 17, 2017
Cam Flaherty is an organic farmer in Westbury,Massachusetts. Her boyfriend, Pete Pappas, is a state police detective. Both get involved when someone dies at a retirement home where Cam's uncle lives and where she provided the fresh ingredients for the meal that was served just before the death. Pete pulls back from the investigation which doesn't sit well with Cam. Interesting information about winter farming. The book was a quick easy read.
January 15, 2023
This was a great book in a great series. I love it. I also love that it takes place right where I live. Love the characters and the mystery. It kept me guessing to the end.
May 27, 2015
Cameron Flaherty owns her uncle's farm which she has decided to convert to certified organic. It means more work, but in the end, she knows it will be worth it. She has just landed the opportunity to provide her uncle's care facility with fresh greens for a meal, and hopes that the result will be a contract to provide for them permanently.
Well, permanently is certainly the right word, but it's not a contract. One of the residents, Bev Montgomery, has permanently checked out of the home after eating a meal made with Cam's vegetables. Since she becomes a suspect in the murder, her budding relationship with Detective Pete Pappas is being put on hold, and he's telling her they need to distance themselves until all this is cleared up. Stung, Cam believes it's unfair, and even though Pete tells her to stay out of the investigation, she knows she won't, especially after her uncle is injured in a fall and she thinks it might have been an attack by Bev's killer.
Then things begin to really come undone: Her relationship with Pete is at a standstill, she has trouble on the farm, and she finds herself in the killer's sights. While no real attempts are made on her life, the more she finds out about Bev's murder, the more she puts herself in true danger.
I thought this was a splendid read. The characters were well-developed, and we are allowed at all times to see into Cam's thoughts and feelings, which is indeed refreshing. She is doing her best to make sure her uncle is well-taken care of, and also trying to make her farm a go. At the same time, she is building relationships that will benefit her in the long run, and making new friends who are willing to help her out when it's needed, since she no longer has a hired hand on her farm.
The mystery was well-written and the reasons behind the murder were completely plausible and I enjoyed the way everything came together at the end. Cam proved herself to be quite capable and not hen-witted (pun intended). I didn't discover the killer until right before Cam did, and that in itself is a good sign. This is the third book in the series but you don't need to read the first two to enjoy it. Recommended.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review but this in no way influenced my decision.
Well, permanently is certainly the right word, but it's not a contract. One of the residents, Bev Montgomery, has permanently checked out of the home after eating a meal made with Cam's vegetables. Since she becomes a suspect in the murder, her budding relationship with Detective Pete Pappas is being put on hold, and he's telling her they need to distance themselves until all this is cleared up. Stung, Cam believes it's unfair, and even though Pete tells her to stay out of the investigation, she knows she won't, especially after her uncle is injured in a fall and she thinks it might have been an attack by Bev's killer.
Then things begin to really come undone: Her relationship with Pete is at a standstill, she has trouble on the farm, and she finds herself in the killer's sights. While no real attempts are made on her life, the more she finds out about Bev's murder, the more she puts herself in true danger.
I thought this was a splendid read. The characters were well-developed, and we are allowed at all times to see into Cam's thoughts and feelings, which is indeed refreshing. She is doing her best to make sure her uncle is well-taken care of, and also trying to make her farm a go. At the same time, she is building relationships that will benefit her in the long run, and making new friends who are willing to help her out when it's needed, since she no longer has a hired hand on her farm.
The mystery was well-written and the reasons behind the murder were completely plausible and I enjoyed the way everything came together at the end. Cam proved herself to be quite capable and not hen-witted (pun intended). I didn't discover the killer until right before Cam did, and that in itself is a good sign. This is the third book in the series but you don't need to read the first two to enjoy it. Recommended.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review but this in no way influenced my decision.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2015
[I received this book free from the publisher through NetGalley. I thank them for their generousity. In exchange, I was simply asked to write an honest review, and post it. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising]
Cam is running her Uncle Albert's old farm now that he's been moved into a step up community after losing his foot. She's making an attempt to run it as a CSA farm, with no chemicals as she works towards organic status. During this winter, she is experimenting with ways of wintering over produce so that her customers would have a full year share for the money. She also raises chickens, some of who prove just how stupid they can be...(insert "bird brain" joke at your leisure)...
There has been a death at the care facility that Cam is trying to snag as a client. In part, it seems as if the whole staff could be involved, starting with the manager and ending with the cook. Cam doesn't enjoy being under such scrutiny, and begins to try to figure it out on her own, despite being told not to by her sheriff-boyfriend, who tells her she is suspected of the murder.
I approached this book with some interest, having been a working share CSA member for a while, and very familiar with produce they offer. The idea of a full year share was exciting, but there are some strange twists and turns that distracted from the actually storyline: You can't grow tatsoi in New England without a full on greenhouse. We can't even grow it here in Central New York. And the story would divert into a kind of CSA primer in the middle of an exciting part. And the dicussions about chemicals were kind of a big • yawn• . And didn't the owner of the care facility "vett" his workers?(I have also been a professional cook as well as an administrator at a small nursing home, so I know of what I speak). And who on earth would keep booze in the kitchen of that facilty?
I wasn't captivated by this book, and really won't recommend it when the best characters are the chickens
Cam is running her Uncle Albert's old farm now that he's been moved into a step up community after losing his foot. She's making an attempt to run it as a CSA farm, with no chemicals as she works towards organic status. During this winter, she is experimenting with ways of wintering over produce so that her customers would have a full year share for the money. She also raises chickens, some of who prove just how stupid they can be...(insert "bird brain" joke at your leisure)...
There has been a death at the care facility that Cam is trying to snag as a client. In part, it seems as if the whole staff could be involved, starting with the manager and ending with the cook. Cam doesn't enjoy being under such scrutiny, and begins to try to figure it out on her own, despite being told not to by her sheriff-boyfriend, who tells her she is suspected of the murder.
I approached this book with some interest, having been a working share CSA member for a while, and very familiar with produce they offer. The idea of a full year share was exciting, but there are some strange twists and turns that distracted from the actually storyline: You can't grow tatsoi in New England without a full on greenhouse. We can't even grow it here in Central New York. And the story would divert into a kind of CSA primer in the middle of an exciting part. And the dicussions about chemicals were kind of a big • yawn• . And didn't the owner of the care facility "vett" his workers?(I have also been a professional cook as well as an administrator at a small nursing home, so I know of what I speak). And who on earth would keep booze in the kitchen of that facilty?
I wasn't captivated by this book, and really won't recommend it when the best characters are the chickens
May 7, 2017
I enjoyed Farmed and Dangerous though I found a few things repeated, such as, the fact that Cam's former boyfriend was a bit overbearing. We must have been told that 3-4 times in the first 15% of the book. It's repeated less in the following book, Murder Most Fowl, but is still mentioned. Speaking of boyfriends, her new one, Pete, leaves a lot to be desired and I wonder why the author chose to even bother with a romantic element.
Not having read the first two books in the series, I had no problem starting in midflow. There are numerous very brief mentions to events in the first two books which aren't explained and that was fine with me. It seemed natural. I hate rehashing of details from previous books (more so, of course, when I've read the previous books). If a reader wants to know more about how someone ended up in a wheelchair, go back and read the other books.
I have read cozies set on farms, but this setting and Cam's subscriber situation and methods of natural farming were new to me. How accurate it was didn't bother me since I wouldn't know. The details we were given weren't excessive and didn't detract from the mystery for me. I also liked Cam's relationship with and how the Manor and it's inhabitants are portrayed. Not every senior is a Miss Marple/Hercule Poirot, they seemed real.
I felt there were a few loose ends that didn't get addressed (like what happened at the Manor on that snowy night and other Manor issues), but I'd actually forgot about them until I was writing this review.
I liked Farmed enough that I gladly started book #4, Murder Most Fowl, immediately after I finished Farmed.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Not having read the first two books in the series, I had no problem starting in midflow. There are numerous very brief mentions to events in the first two books which aren't explained and that was fine with me. It seemed natural. I hate rehashing of details from previous books (more so, of course, when I've read the previous books). If a reader wants to know more about how someone ended up in a wheelchair, go back and read the other books.
I have read cozies set on farms, but this setting and Cam's subscriber situation and methods of natural farming were new to me. How accurate it was didn't bother me since I wouldn't know. The details we were given weren't excessive and didn't detract from the mystery for me. I also liked Cam's relationship with and how the Manor and it's inhabitants are portrayed. Not every senior is a Miss Marple/Hercule Poirot, they seemed real.
I felt there were a few loose ends that didn't get addressed (like what happened at the Manor on that snowy night and other Manor issues), but I'd actually forgot about them until I was writing this review.
I liked Farmed enough that I gladly started book #4, Murder Most Fowl, immediately after I finished Farmed.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
May 26, 2015
Farmed and Dangerous, a Local Foods Mystery, is the third entry in a series that just keeps getting better and better.
Cam is delightful as she struggles with surviving her first winter of organic farming and supplying the community-supported agriculture program (CSA). She’s still a software geek at heart, but that expertise comes in pretty handy in running her farm and trying to solve the mystery she has been thrown into. She is becoming more comfortable with the CSA members – except Bev Montgomery, no one is comfortable with her! – and feels at home with the locals. There is also a hint (or maybe more than a hint) of romance for her. The recurring supporting characters continue to develop and make us care what happens to them.
The winter scenes were so realistic I was cold just reading them. The organic farming information is fascinating as always, and Edith Maxwell sneaks those facts in in such a way that you don’t even realize you are learning.
The recipes – try them! Every time I read a description of meal in the book I wanted to stop reading and try it. Delicious food.
I received an ARC from the author but a review was not expected. This is a great series and I would recommend it. You can read Farmed and Dangerous as a stand-alone but even better, go back to the beginning and see how Cam began on the farm.
Cam is delightful as she struggles with surviving her first winter of organic farming and supplying the community-supported agriculture program (CSA). She’s still a software geek at heart, but that expertise comes in pretty handy in running her farm and trying to solve the mystery she has been thrown into. She is becoming more comfortable with the CSA members – except Bev Montgomery, no one is comfortable with her! – and feels at home with the locals. There is also a hint (or maybe more than a hint) of romance for her. The recurring supporting characters continue to develop and make us care what happens to them.
The winter scenes were so realistic I was cold just reading them. The organic farming information is fascinating as always, and Edith Maxwell sneaks those facts in in such a way that you don’t even realize you are learning.
The recipes – try them! Every time I read a description of meal in the book I wanted to stop reading and try it. Delicious food.
I received an ARC from the author but a review was not expected. This is a great series and I would recommend it. You can read Farmed and Dangerous as a stand-alone but even better, go back to the beginning and see how Cam began on the farm.
May 27, 2015
I was lucky enough to have gotten a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for a review, which I am more than happy to provide. This is the third book in the series, and usually I don't like to jump into the middle of a series because more often than not you end up being completely lost, but I took a chance and I am very happy I did. Sure there were a few moments were I did not know some of the secondary characters, but overall it was not a problem. I loved the characters and the storyline, and all of a sudden I have a strong urge to farm or raise my own chickens. I had a hard time putting the book down and read way passed my bedtime. This might have been by first book by Edith Maxwell but it certainly won't be my last. I can't wait to see what will happen next, but in the meantime I will read the first 2 books in the series. Very entertaining, and it had me guessing until the end.
June 11, 2015
Winter has settle on Massachusetts, but farmer Cam Flaherty is still very busy. She’s growing food in her hoop house and hoping to land a contract to provide produce during the summer at the local assisted living facility. However, the night that her food is served, one of the residents dies from poison. With local gossip and the police looking at her, Cam must dive in to the mystery to clear her reputation.
The book did start a little slowly, but once the murder takes place, things pick up. I was turning pages as quickly as I could until I reached the satisfying ending. It was great to spend time with these characters again, and the suspects were equally engaging. Be sure to read through the recipes, too, since there is a joke in one of them.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
The book did start a little slowly, but once the murder takes place, things pick up. I was turning pages as quickly as I could until I reached the satisfying ending. It was great to spend time with these characters again, and the suspects were equally engaging. Be sure to read through the recipes, too, since there is a joke in one of them.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
May 26, 2015
A good cozy mystery with all attributes of one. An amateur sleuth, small town, craft and romance with a police officer. I found the craft unusual organic farming in the winter. The information is accurate and I found that it added to my knowledge of the subject. I got a little tired of all the dangers Cam, the protagonist went threw. I waited for them to happen. I still found the writing excellent and good book with which to relax.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington through Netgalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington through Netgalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions are my own.
January 5, 2018
Keeping a reader’s interest is paramount in a cozy. Farmed and Dangerous, Edith Maxwell’s cozy offers Cameron Flaherty, a young woman who takes on her elderly uncle’s organic farm when he goes into a senior home. Challenges for Cam occur in making the farm “a go” and when she delivers fresh vegetables for the senior home’s dinner menu, one of its residents dies of poison. The story escalates as Cam becomes involved in a mystery of who done it, endangering herself and her state police boyfriend. The unraveling plot will cause you to want to stay a bit longer in the sun, for this cozy offers enjoyable characters, suspense, and a value of information on organic farming.
July 7, 2015
Cam is struggling to keep her farm going and the winter weather isn't helping. So she decides to take some veggies to the local residence home where her great uncle now resides in hopes that they will decide to order from her regularly. Only one of the residents end up dead and she becomes the prime suspect with poisoned produce. She decides to clear herself knowing she didn't poison anyone and becomes the prime target for the murderer, but it seems there are a lot of suspects and many people with motives.
I was given an advanced ecopy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was given an advanced ecopy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2020
Cam has a chance to offer produce to the local senior residence where her Great Uncle Albert lives. Unfortunately, the night after her food is used for the residents, Bev Montgomery dies, and all indications seem to point at something she ate. Cam has a tie with Bev, as it was Bev's farm from where the chickens were rescued, that Cam now has. Since Cam is a person of interest means that Detective Pete Pappas has to put their relationship on hold. Even though she tries, Cam gets nowhere in figuring out who killed Beverly, but that doesn't stop the killer from trying to get Cam out of the way.
July 12, 2015
SO glad I read this during a 90 degree day at the beach-otherwise I would have been freezing reading about all that snow and the cold temperatures. I adore Cam. She's flawed and she knows it and it's incredibly endearing. Lot of twists and turns in this one, keep you guessing until the last moment. Is it weird that I'm strangely amused by the hens?! A great series-can't wait for the 4th installment!
July 10, 2015
I loved this book. It is the third one in the Cam Flaherty series and the best one yet. Cam has to deal with blizzards, stupid chickens, and someone trying to kill her all while trying to find out who killed the woman at the nursing home where her grandfather lives. I literally couldn't put it down. Can't wait until the next one comes out.
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