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Cranberry Cove #2
Berry the Hatchet
The entire town of Cranberry Cove is popping with excitement. Monica Albertson is baking cranberry goodies by the dozen, and shopkeepers are decking out their storefronts for the first annual Winter Walk--an event dreamed up by the mayor to bring visitors to the town during a normally dead time of year. But it's the mayor who turns up dead during the grand opening ceremony, his lifeless body making its entrance in a horse-drawn sleigh. Monica's mother and stepmother quickly become the prime suspects when it's discovered that the mayor was dating both of them, and to make things worse, Monica's half-brother Jeff uncovers a clue buried near one of the bogs on Sassamanash Farm. Now it's up to Monica to find out who really put the mayor on ice.
293 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 3, 2016
118 people are currently reading
970 people want to read
About the author
Peg Cochran
31 books396 followersMystery writing lets Peg indulge her curiosity under the guise of “work” (aka research). She put pen to paper at age seven when she wrote plays and forced her cousins to perform them at Christmas dinner. She switched to mysteries when she discovered the perfect hiding place for a body down the street from her house.
When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading, cooking, spoiling her granddaughter and checking her books' stats on Amazon.
A former Jersey girl, Peg now resides in Michigan. She is the author of the Open Book Series (written as Margaret Loudon), the Murder, She Reported series, the Cranberry Cove Series, the Farmer’s Daughter series, the Gourmet De-Lite series, the Lucille series, and the Sweet Nothings Lingerie series (written as Meg London.)
When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading, cooking, spoiling her granddaughter and checking her books' stats on Amazon.
A former Jersey girl, Peg now resides in Michigan. She is the author of the Open Book Series (written as Margaret Loudon), the Murder, She Reported series, the Cranberry Cove Series, the Farmer’s Daughter series, the Gourmet De-Lite series, the Lucille series, and the Sweet Nothings Lingerie series (written as Meg London.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
July 3, 2021
I'm really enjoying this series...can't wait to see what happens next!
Apparently im a sucker for fruit farms...who knew lol!
For my thoughts on this book and other cozies subscribe to my YouTube channel @:
https://t.co/Jx58B4KNW5?amp=1
Apparently im a sucker for fruit farms...who knew lol!
For my thoughts on this book and other cozies subscribe to my YouTube channel @:
https://t.co/Jx58B4KNW5?amp=1
May 21, 2016
The cast of Characters made this story exciting
It's cold and snowy in idyllic Cranberry Cove home of Sassamamash Farm and Monica Albertson who lives there with her half- brother, Jeff who is a cranberry farmer along with Gina, Jeff's mother who lives in town and also surprising Monica her mother Nancy also is coming to town and Gina and Nancy have a hard time getting along . The Winter walk event is coming, tourists and visitors walk along the light twinkled store fronts and merchants open their doors and offer up hot chocolate, and people can shop.
Monica is baking several cranberry delights for the event like muffins, bread, salsa made from the farm's cranberry harvest. Tempest Storm is a business owner and is doing a imbolic ritual at the winter walk to hurry spring so winter will end.
The mayor, Preston Crowley wants to ban the ceremony and it angers Tempest to no end. The mayor and his niece “Miss Winter walk” Candy are due to ride down the street in a horse drawn sleigh but when the mayor arrives alone in the sleigh with a bloody ceremonial dager stuck in his neck, Monica is shocked and together with her love interest and book store owner Greg but on their mystery solving thinking caps to try to find a murderer with no shortage of suspects including Monica's mother and step-mother who were both dating the mayor at the same time and with another murder of the mayors niece, Candy. Monica can't help but have a sour taste in her mouth.
I did not enjoy Berry the Hatchet as much as I did the first book, Berried Secrets. The story line just fell flat and was not as much of a page turner the Winter walk and the imbolic ritual did not interest me. It was an engaging read with a murder victim you loved to hate and a killer with a past that was not so unexpected. The Cast of Characters is what made this story exciting. Monica and her love of baking cranberry treats make her one of my favorite ameteur sleuths. I will love to read the next book in this series.
FTC Disclosure Thank you to the publisher and/or author or Net Galley for providing us with a copy of this book for review.This did not influence our thoughts in any way. All the opinions of the book are our own.
It's cold and snowy in idyllic Cranberry Cove home of Sassamamash Farm and Monica Albertson who lives there with her half- brother, Jeff who is a cranberry farmer along with Gina, Jeff's mother who lives in town and also surprising Monica her mother Nancy also is coming to town and Gina and Nancy have a hard time getting along . The Winter walk event is coming, tourists and visitors walk along the light twinkled store fronts and merchants open their doors and offer up hot chocolate, and people can shop.
Monica is baking several cranberry delights for the event like muffins, bread, salsa made from the farm's cranberry harvest. Tempest Storm is a business owner and is doing a imbolic ritual at the winter walk to hurry spring so winter will end.
The mayor, Preston Crowley wants to ban the ceremony and it angers Tempest to no end. The mayor and his niece “Miss Winter walk” Candy are due to ride down the street in a horse drawn sleigh but when the mayor arrives alone in the sleigh with a bloody ceremonial dager stuck in his neck, Monica is shocked and together with her love interest and book store owner Greg but on their mystery solving thinking caps to try to find a murderer with no shortage of suspects including Monica's mother and step-mother who were both dating the mayor at the same time and with another murder of the mayors niece, Candy. Monica can't help but have a sour taste in her mouth.
I did not enjoy Berry the Hatchet as much as I did the first book, Berried Secrets. The story line just fell flat and was not as much of a page turner the Winter walk and the imbolic ritual did not interest me. It was an engaging read with a murder victim you loved to hate and a killer with a past that was not so unexpected. The Cast of Characters is what made this story exciting. Monica and her love of baking cranberry treats make her one of my favorite ameteur sleuths. I will love to read the next book in this series.
FTC Disclosure Thank you to the publisher and/or author or Net Galley for providing us with a copy of this book for review.This did not influence our thoughts in any way. All the opinions of the book are our own.
May 16, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
I ate this mystery right up!
We are back in Cranberry Cove just in time for the Winter Walk. The mayor had this grand idea to bring tourists to town during the off season. Sadly he didn’t get to see the fruits of his labor. As the parade is ready to start the horse drawn sleigh carrying him takes off. When the horses are reined in the mayor’s body is found. In a unique twist both Monica’s mother and step mother are at the top of the list of suspects. It doesn’t help that a key piece of evidence is found on the family’s cranberry farm. Monica finds herself trying to clear both women of the crime, landing herself right in the killer’s sites.
You wouldn’t think there would be much to be done to a cranberry bog in the winter but there is plenty to keep Monica’s brother Jeff busy. Monica is baking everyday, the farm store is still open and she is selling things at the Winter Walk as well. When her mother makes a surprise visit and there are no rooms available at the motel or B&B’s Monica finds herself with a house guest. She has been getting along with her stepmother but her mother’s visit may mess up that relationship.
This was a fast paced mystery. The story never gets “bogged down”, the pages were turning pretty rapidly as we reached the climatic end.
I really like these characters. They are engaging and believable. I love the relationship Monica has with Detective Stevens. They actually share information. Having both her stepmom and mom in town could really have gone wrong but the author really wrote the story is a wonderful way, even when another visitor came to town.
This is another delightful cozy from Peg Cochran. She even makes winter in Michigan sound like fun, with the wind blowing and the chill in the air. Bundle up and enjoy this trip to Cranberry Cove.
I ate this mystery right up!
We are back in Cranberry Cove just in time for the Winter Walk. The mayor had this grand idea to bring tourists to town during the off season. Sadly he didn’t get to see the fruits of his labor. As the parade is ready to start the horse drawn sleigh carrying him takes off. When the horses are reined in the mayor’s body is found. In a unique twist both Monica’s mother and step mother are at the top of the list of suspects. It doesn’t help that a key piece of evidence is found on the family’s cranberry farm. Monica finds herself trying to clear both women of the crime, landing herself right in the killer’s sites.
You wouldn’t think there would be much to be done to a cranberry bog in the winter but there is plenty to keep Monica’s brother Jeff busy. Monica is baking everyday, the farm store is still open and she is selling things at the Winter Walk as well. When her mother makes a surprise visit and there are no rooms available at the motel or B&B’s Monica finds herself with a house guest. She has been getting along with her stepmother but her mother’s visit may mess up that relationship.
This was a fast paced mystery. The story never gets “bogged down”, the pages were turning pretty rapidly as we reached the climatic end.
I really like these characters. They are engaging and believable. I love the relationship Monica has with Detective Stevens. They actually share information. Having both her stepmom and mom in town could really have gone wrong but the author really wrote the story is a wonderful way, even when another visitor came to town.
This is another delightful cozy from Peg Cochran. She even makes winter in Michigan sound like fun, with the wind blowing and the chill in the air. Bundle up and enjoy this trip to Cranberry Cove.
April 1, 2025
I liked this one. The characters are enjoyable and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens to them. The Winter Walk was a good setting for a murder and there were lots of suspects. There were cranberry recipes included at the end and I was glad to see Monica’s recipe for cranberry salsa included since I wasn’t sure what that would be and it wasn’t exactly what I was expecting.
February 12, 2020
I really enjoy this series and book two is just as fun as the first. In this one business started to slow down after the holidays so the town mayor planned a "Winter Walk" to bring tourists and visitors to town.
June 8, 2018
Altro buon libro, che ancora una volta mi ha fatto venir voglia di mangiare mirtilli in tutte le salse... Questa è un'altra di quelle serie per cui mi devo proprio mettere in pari con la lettura.
January 18, 2026
I received an audio copy from Tantor Audio and voluntarily reviewed it.
Berry the Hatchet is the second book in the Cranberry Cove Mysteries series. I enjoyed the first book and was excited to continue the series and listen to the second book. Berry the Hatchet takes place a few months later than book 1. There is a winter walk event taking place and the mayor is found dead during the event. Monica's mother Nancy is stopping by in town and it turns out Nancy and Gina were both dating the mayor and become suspects. Then Monica's friend Tempest is a suspect as well and Monica tries to solve the mystery.
I enjoyed this one and enjoyed being back in Cranberry Cove again. It's fun to read more about these characters. I like Monica and her brother Jeff who runs the farm. I liked learning a bit about the Cranberry farm and what they do during winter, although it wasn't as interesting as everything about the harvest in book 1. I wasn't a fan of Monica's mother Nancy suddenly showing up and how Gina and Nancy are still angry with each other, but I actually liked how that progressed throughout the book. I also liked seeing Monica's relationship progress with Greg, the bookstore owner progress, and how they have some talks about the mystery.
This one has some clear winter vibes, which will be fun if you're looking for a winter-y read. I've grown to realize I actually prefer to read about different seasons during winter while I am struggling with seasonal affective disorder, so I'll keep that in mind in the future. I liked the Dutch influences in the town and some mentions of that, although there was less of those as in book 1.
The mystery was a solid one, but for some reason very early on I figured out who did it. And it wasn't a hunch, I just knew with absolute clarity who the murderer was. And it just kinda ruined the mystery a bit for me as it was less fun knowing the murderer with such clarity early on. It turns out I was correct too, I hadn't figured out the motive, so I enjoyed seeing that come to light. And I did feel the mystery really picked up in the second half and even more so toward the end with some big clues coming to light. I also appreciate Monica's good relationship with detective Stevens and how she passes the clues along.
To summarize: I enjoyed returning to Cranberry Cove for another mystery. I liked reading more about the cranberry farm as well as the characters. I liked reading more about Monica, her romance with Greg as well as her family and friends. This one has strong winter vibes with the book taking place in that season, I think with my winter depression I will avoid winter books set during winter in the future. The mystery felt like a solid one, but for some reason I knew with absolute clarity who the murderer was very early on, which made the mystery a bit less interesting. I hadn't figured out the motive, so that was interesting to see come to light. The mystery felt a bit slower at the start, but really picks up in the second half and especially toward the end with some big clues coming to light. All in all a solid sequel and I look forward to continuing the series.
Berry the Hatchet is the second book in the Cranberry Cove Mysteries series. I enjoyed the first book and was excited to continue the series and listen to the second book. Berry the Hatchet takes place a few months later than book 1. There is a winter walk event taking place and the mayor is found dead during the event. Monica's mother Nancy is stopping by in town and it turns out Nancy and Gina were both dating the mayor and become suspects. Then Monica's friend Tempest is a suspect as well and Monica tries to solve the mystery.
I enjoyed this one and enjoyed being back in Cranberry Cove again. It's fun to read more about these characters. I like Monica and her brother Jeff who runs the farm. I liked learning a bit about the Cranberry farm and what they do during winter, although it wasn't as interesting as everything about the harvest in book 1. I wasn't a fan of Monica's mother Nancy suddenly showing up and how Gina and Nancy are still angry with each other, but I actually liked how that progressed throughout the book. I also liked seeing Monica's relationship progress with Greg, the bookstore owner progress, and how they have some talks about the mystery.
This one has some clear winter vibes, which will be fun if you're looking for a winter-y read. I've grown to realize I actually prefer to read about different seasons during winter while I am struggling with seasonal affective disorder, so I'll keep that in mind in the future. I liked the Dutch influences in the town and some mentions of that, although there was less of those as in book 1.
The mystery was a solid one, but for some reason very early on I figured out who did it. And it wasn't a hunch, I just knew with absolute clarity who the murderer was. And it just kinda ruined the mystery a bit for me as it was less fun knowing the murderer with such clarity early on. It turns out I was correct too, I hadn't figured out the motive, so I enjoyed seeing that come to light. And I did feel the mystery really picked up in the second half and even more so toward the end with some big clues coming to light. I also appreciate Monica's good relationship with detective Stevens and how she passes the clues along.
To summarize: I enjoyed returning to Cranberry Cove for another mystery. I liked reading more about the cranberry farm as well as the characters. I liked reading more about Monica, her romance with Greg as well as her family and friends. This one has strong winter vibes with the book taking place in that season, I think with my winter depression I will avoid winter books set during winter in the future. The mystery felt like a solid one, but for some reason I knew with absolute clarity who the murderer was very early on, which made the mystery a bit less interesting. I hadn't figured out the motive, so that was interesting to see come to light. The mystery felt a bit slower at the start, but really picks up in the second half and especially toward the end with some big clues coming to light. All in all a solid sequel and I look forward to continuing the series.
June 7, 2017
The sophomore book to a series set in an idyllic location, Berry the Hatchet dropped the ball.
First of all, Monica compared herself to Sherlock Holmes and Watson during one portion, and her boyfriend was always comparing her to other literary detectives! Stop, please. That alone annoys me to no end. Sure in a longstanding series I can believe that a character would be compared to a famous detective, but not in the second book! She was also way to forward in her sleuthing. It was annoying.
However, there were some very redeeming characters in this book. I absolutely love Detective Stevens, and I hope she gets a bigger part in the next book. Jeff, Nancy, and Gina are also redeeming characters. I really hope Jeff is also featured more in the next book because his backstory is so unique and real. The VanVelsen sisters also are awesome characters.
The mystery was okay. There were a lot of intricate parts to it, but I guessed the killer about a hundred pages from the reveal. The real star of the book was the setting. I absolutely love it! A cranberry farm is so fresh for a cozy setting, and I love learning a little bit more about the processes that happen on the farm.
Overall an okay book. Monica and the mystery fell short, but, besides that, it wasn't too bad. I'll read the next one.
First of all, Monica compared herself to Sherlock Holmes and Watson during one portion, and her boyfriend was always comparing her to other literary detectives! Stop, please. That alone annoys me to no end. Sure in a longstanding series I can believe that a character would be compared to a famous detective, but not in the second book! She was also way to forward in her sleuthing. It was annoying.
However, there were some very redeeming characters in this book. I absolutely love Detective Stevens, and I hope she gets a bigger part in the next book. Jeff, Nancy, and Gina are also redeeming characters. I really hope Jeff is also featured more in the next book because his backstory is so unique and real. The VanVelsen sisters also are awesome characters.
The mystery was okay. There were a lot of intricate parts to it, but I guessed the killer about a hundred pages from the reveal. The real star of the book was the setting. I absolutely love it! A cranberry farm is so fresh for a cozy setting, and I love learning a little bit more about the processes that happen on the farm.
Overall an okay book. Monica and the mystery fell short, but, besides that, it wasn't too bad. I'll read the next one.
August 20, 2017
Berry the Hatchet, Cranberry Cove #2 by author Peg Cochran finds Monica's mother, Nancy, visiting and the discovery that both she and Monica's stepmother, Gina, are dating the same man.....who quite coincidentally is found stabbed to death during Cranberry Cove's first annual Winter Walk! Another fast-paced cozy thriller from Ms. Cochran, and once again I I came to the conclusion of the the culprit was right along with Monica. Looking forward to more from this author in this series! A+
August 2, 2021
This is my first book I’ve read from this author and this series! I really loved it! Read it very quickly and I’m anxious to continue this series ! I have always been curious about cranberry farming! So interesting!
April 21, 2019
Decent cozy murder mystery. I enjoyed the characters.
August 10, 2020
2.5 - not bad but not great. I'll probably read the rest of the series when I dont have anything else to read.
August 28, 2017
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October 23, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. Since I had the time, I finished it in a day because it was hard to put down. I know have a craving for cranberries and cranberry bread, so I would recommend not reading while hungry. Monica is settling into being in Cranberry Cove, helping with the farm, and prepping for the first Winter Walk. In addition to battling the cold, Monica has to deal with having both her mother and stepmother is the same location, and of course a murder. She finds herself dragged into the investigation when yet another family member or members are possible suspects. In addition to an interesting plot, I am enjoying the building character relationships, and the talk of cranberry products. I will definitely be continuing with this series and would recommend it to cozy newbies and veterans alike.
May 3, 2016
Berry the Hatchet is the second book in the A Cranberry Cove Mystery series.
The residents of Cranberry Cove are busy getting ready for the first annual Winter Walk. Monica Albertson, who helps her step-brother, Jeff, run the Sassamanash Farms cranberry farm, is busy gathering up the products from the farm that she plans to see at a booth outside Gumdrops, a candy store, when she learns that her mother, Nancy will be arriving shortly in town. She is looking forward to spending some time with her mother, but then, her step-mother, Gina, has recently moved to Cranberry Cove. To put it mildly, Nancy and Gina are like water and oil, they just don't mix. Add to this, they re both dating the same man, Preston Crowley.
A few minutes before the parade is supposed to start, a runaway horse pulling a sleigh is heading down the street. Bart Dykema is able to finally get the horse and sleigh stopped and to every one's horror, the lifeless body of Mayor Crowley, with knife sticking out his neck, is the only passenger.
When it is learned that both Gina and Nancy had been dating Crowley., they of course become persons of interest. But Monica soon learns that there are others that have a reason to want the mayor dead. Roger Tripp, the owner of The Pepper Pot, a new restaurant that he hopes to have open in time for the Winter Walk. He wasn't able to open because he lacked the necessary permits and the mayor may have been just the one to hold them up. There is Tempest Storm, who wanted to hold an Imbole, a ritual to hurry Spring, something that the mayor was against.
With the help of the help of Greg Harper, her potential boyfriend, she sets out to do a little sleuthing of her own to clear her mother and step-mother of any suspicion.
I find this series to be very enjoyable and lighthearted, with an interesting cast of characters. I was concerned at first with Nancy and Gina both being in the book, bit Ms. Cochran skillfully handled the situation. There were times when they were at odds with each other, but also times when they put their feelings aside. Hopefully Nancy will come back in future books, I don't see them becoming “best friends”, but still it will be fun to see them interact.
Delicious recipes are also included with the book.
Definitely, will be watching for the next book in this great series.
The residents of Cranberry Cove are busy getting ready for the first annual Winter Walk. Monica Albertson, who helps her step-brother, Jeff, run the Sassamanash Farms cranberry farm, is busy gathering up the products from the farm that she plans to see at a booth outside Gumdrops, a candy store, when she learns that her mother, Nancy will be arriving shortly in town. She is looking forward to spending some time with her mother, but then, her step-mother, Gina, has recently moved to Cranberry Cove. To put it mildly, Nancy and Gina are like water and oil, they just don't mix. Add to this, they re both dating the same man, Preston Crowley.
A few minutes before the parade is supposed to start, a runaway horse pulling a sleigh is heading down the street. Bart Dykema is able to finally get the horse and sleigh stopped and to every one's horror, the lifeless body of Mayor Crowley, with knife sticking out his neck, is the only passenger.
When it is learned that both Gina and Nancy had been dating Crowley., they of course become persons of interest. But Monica soon learns that there are others that have a reason to want the mayor dead. Roger Tripp, the owner of The Pepper Pot, a new restaurant that he hopes to have open in time for the Winter Walk. He wasn't able to open because he lacked the necessary permits and the mayor may have been just the one to hold them up. There is Tempest Storm, who wanted to hold an Imbole, a ritual to hurry Spring, something that the mayor was against.
With the help of the help of Greg Harper, her potential boyfriend, she sets out to do a little sleuthing of her own to clear her mother and step-mother of any suspicion.
I find this series to be very enjoyable and lighthearted, with an interesting cast of characters. I was concerned at first with Nancy and Gina both being in the book, bit Ms. Cochran skillfully handled the situation. There were times when they were at odds with each other, but also times when they put their feelings aside. Hopefully Nancy will come back in future books, I don't see them becoming “best friends”, but still it will be fun to see them interact.
Delicious recipes are also included with the book.
Definitely, will be watching for the next book in this great series.
May 1, 2016
Berry the Hatchet by Peg Cochran is the second book in A Cranberry Cove Mystery series. Monica Albertson is getting the Sassamanash Farm stand in town ready for the Winter Walk. Their mayor, Preston Crowley came up with the Winter Walk as a way to bring tourists to Cranberry Cove during the winter. People are waiting for the arrival of the sleigh with Miss Winter Walk (the mayor’s niece, Candy) and Mayor Crowley. All of the sudden the sleigh comes down the street at a very fast pace (run away sleigh). When they finally get the horse to stop, they find Preston Crowley inside with an unusual knife in his neck. Why would someone kill the mayor? Turns out that Preston was dating both Monica’s mother and step-mother at the same time (talk about a busy bee). Both women end up suspects. Monica is determined to get them off the suspect list. There have to be other people who were not happy with their esteemed mayor! Can Monica find the killer while not ending up a victim herself? Can her mother (Nancy Albertson) and step-mother (Gina Albertson) stand being in the same town without hurting each other? You will have to read Berry the Hatchet to find out!
Berry the Hatchet was just delightful. The book has engaging characters, a beautiful setting (can you imagine a lovely, small town with snow), and a fun mystery. I just wish the murder mystery had been a little more difficult to solve. I did, though, enjoy following the clues (the author provided some good clues) to the conclusion (where I confirmed I picked the right killer). Berry the Hatchet can be read as a stand-alone book if you have not read the first book in the series. I look forward to the next novel in A Cranberry Cove Mystery series. I give Berry the Hatchet 4.5 out of 5 stars (if I had not been able to solve the mystery it would have been a 5). Berry the Hatchet had just the right blend of mystery, romance, friends (and quirky characters), and family. Peg Cochran did a very good job constructing Berry the Hatchet.
I received a complimentary copy of Berry the Hatchet from the author (as a part of the Cozy Mystery Review Crew) in exchange for an honest evaluation of the novel.
Berry the Hatchet was just delightful. The book has engaging characters, a beautiful setting (can you imagine a lovely, small town with snow), and a fun mystery. I just wish the murder mystery had been a little more difficult to solve. I did, though, enjoy following the clues (the author provided some good clues) to the conclusion (where I confirmed I picked the right killer). Berry the Hatchet can be read as a stand-alone book if you have not read the first book in the series. I look forward to the next novel in A Cranberry Cove Mystery series. I give Berry the Hatchet 4.5 out of 5 stars (if I had not been able to solve the mystery it would have been a 5). Berry the Hatchet had just the right blend of mystery, romance, friends (and quirky characters), and family. Peg Cochran did a very good job constructing Berry the Hatchet.
I received a complimentary copy of Berry the Hatchet from the author (as a part of the Cozy Mystery Review Crew) in exchange for an honest evaluation of the novel.
March 2, 2018
O. M. GOSH. WHAT a hideous narrator. Totally and completely UGH.
Thankfully, the story was good and I just tried to concentrate on that and not on how awful she was. UGH UGH UGH.
Didn't guess the killer until towards the end [I was right with that and with the why]. The story was good and I liked the added bits of drama between Monica's mom and 2 stepmoms [as someone who has both and has seen such drama, I was right there in sympathy with Monica]; it spiced it up a little bit. I like the romance that is blooming between Monica and the book dude, but the whole "he squeezed her shoulder" thing got old quick. She is your girlfriend dude, not just there to get a massage.
I'm looking forward to the third one, but NOT the narrator. Sigh. Ugh.
Thankfully, the story was good and I just tried to concentrate on that and not on how awful she was. UGH UGH UGH.
Didn't guess the killer until towards the end [I was right with that and with the why]. The story was good and I liked the added bits of drama between Monica's mom and 2 stepmoms [as someone who has both and has seen such drama, I was right there in sympathy with Monica]; it spiced it up a little bit. I like the romance that is blooming between Monica and the book dude, but the whole "he squeezed her shoulder" thing got old quick. She is your girlfriend dude, not just there to get a massage.
I'm looking forward to the third one, but NOT the narrator. Sigh. Ugh.
June 22, 2016
I really enjoyed this second book in the series! It was even better than the first one. It has romance and murder mystery. I fell in love with the characters of Cranberry Cove. Reading the story I felt like I was right there in Cranberry Cove helping Monica try and solve the mystery.
Just as the Winter Walk celebration is to begin the mayor is found murdered. Of course Monica tries to find the killer since both her mom and step mom are suspects since they were both dating the mayor. Grab a copy today to see how it all ends up. I loved every minute of the story!
Just as the Winter Walk celebration is to begin the mayor is found murdered. Of course Monica tries to find the killer since both her mom and step mom are suspects since they were both dating the mayor. Grab a copy today to see how it all ends up. I loved every minute of the story!
June 21, 2017
Berry the Hatchet by Peg Cochran is the 2nd book in the Cranberry Cove mystery series. Cranberry Cove is about to celebrate their inaugural Winter Walk when the first sleigh appears carrying the mayors dead body. I enjoyed this book although I thought the murderer seemed a bit obvious from the start and Monica made some silly decisions at the end. Recipes are included although after reading about the cranberry and pecan bread, I was disappointed that this was not one of the recipes included. Overall an interesting and enjoyable book.
July 1, 2017
The residents of Cranberry Cove are preparing for the Winter Walk - an event for shop owners to create a magical atmosphere to help entice tourists to the area during the off season. However, no one expected to find the mayor dead in the horse drawn carriage at the beginning of the ceremonial opening. Monica quickly learns that Gina and her mother are at the top of the suspect list. When her friend Tempest is linked to the mysterious murder and some incriminating evidence is recovered on the farm, Monica jumps right in to help clear the names of her loved ones and find the real killer.
I was really looking forward to this book after reading the first in the series. I enjoyed the mystery better in Berried Secrets, but still found this to be a good read. What I really like is the secondary characters. Gina is still a hoot. I'd love to hear more about her aromatherapy shop. Being an essential oil advocate and user myself, it was fun to see that topic pop up. Maybe a cozy author should make a new series with that theme!! Nancy, was a great addition to the story. It was interesting to learn more about Monica's mom, although I'm glad she's not going to stick around, lol. Jeff is a really unique character that you don't come across in cozies to often. Most times the ex military lead is the stud in the story, but Jeff is till working through some issues and I respect that. Makes him seem incredibly real!! The VanVelsen sisters and their candy store might be my favorite. They are the perfect gossipy, snarky duo. I really adore Detective Stevens as well. Nice to see a female detective, but one who is a new mom and not so set on working against the main sleuth throughout the entire story. I'd love to learn more about Temptest and her quirky shop too.
I would have enjoyed more scenes on the farm or in the cranberry store itself. The setting took place in Winter though so I did enjoy learning about how and why they sand the bogs once the water freezes over. I'd love to try some of Monica's cranberry salsa and other baked goods too. As stated before the mystery was a tad weak. I figured out the culprit fairly early on and didn't really care or feel sorry for the victim! Again, I wish that Sassamanash wasn't used so frequently. Just refer to it as the farm, lol. It's a bit of a tongue twister to read over and over again. Overall, I love the characters and look forward to watching them develop!
I was really looking forward to this book after reading the first in the series. I enjoyed the mystery better in Berried Secrets, but still found this to be a good read. What I really like is the secondary characters. Gina is still a hoot. I'd love to hear more about her aromatherapy shop. Being an essential oil advocate and user myself, it was fun to see that topic pop up. Maybe a cozy author should make a new series with that theme!! Nancy, was a great addition to the story. It was interesting to learn more about Monica's mom, although I'm glad she's not going to stick around, lol. Jeff is a really unique character that you don't come across in cozies to often. Most times the ex military lead is the stud in the story, but Jeff is till working through some issues and I respect that. Makes him seem incredibly real!! The VanVelsen sisters and their candy store might be my favorite. They are the perfect gossipy, snarky duo. I really adore Detective Stevens as well. Nice to see a female detective, but one who is a new mom and not so set on working against the main sleuth throughout the entire story. I'd love to learn more about Temptest and her quirky shop too.
I would have enjoyed more scenes on the farm or in the cranberry store itself. The setting took place in Winter though so I did enjoy learning about how and why they sand the bogs once the water freezes over. I'd love to try some of Monica's cranberry salsa and other baked goods too. As stated before the mystery was a tad weak. I figured out the culprit fairly early on and didn't really care or feel sorry for the victim! Again, I wish that Sassamanash wasn't used so frequently. Just refer to it as the farm, lol. It's a bit of a tongue twister to read over and over again. Overall, I love the characters and look forward to watching them develop!
April 7, 2017
Second book better than the first
Another mayor dies in Cranberry Cove. This mayor Crowley did a lot for the town and his newest idea Winter Walk has brought enough people to town to fill the inn and the b&bs. Just as the parade was to start the sleigh with the mayor's dead body races down the hill.
To make matters worse Monica's mother had shown up in town to surprise Crowley, the man she had been dating in Chicago when he was there on business. Problem was he was dating Gina, Monica's stepmother so they are both suspects. Along with Monica's friend Tempest.
So of course Monica has to snoop around.
I enjoyed this book so much more. The characters had depth, the story flowed and of course the settings were perfect. And what I really liked is that the story had me guessing who the murderer was until one character seemed to do something out of the norm. And the motive I had no clue until it was revealed. I loved that.
I am so glad I gave this series a chance. Sure there are a few inconsistencies but they are the same as any book has. Thanks to the proof readers. I feel so sorry for all the reviewers who said they won't continue reading this series after the first book. They are missing out.
Another mayor dies in Cranberry Cove. This mayor Crowley did a lot for the town and his newest idea Winter Walk has brought enough people to town to fill the inn and the b&bs. Just as the parade was to start the sleigh with the mayor's dead body races down the hill.
To make matters worse Monica's mother had shown up in town to surprise Crowley, the man she had been dating in Chicago when he was there on business. Problem was he was dating Gina, Monica's stepmother so they are both suspects. Along with Monica's friend Tempest.
So of course Monica has to snoop around.
I enjoyed this book so much more. The characters had depth, the story flowed and of course the settings were perfect. And what I really liked is that the story had me guessing who the murderer was until one character seemed to do something out of the norm. And the motive I had no clue until it was revealed. I loved that.
I am so glad I gave this series a chance. Sure there are a few inconsistencies but they are the same as any book has. Thanks to the proof readers. I feel so sorry for all the reviewers who said they won't continue reading this series after the first book. They are missing out.
October 22, 2023
Boil the water and get some tea bags lined up - there's murder afoot in Cranberry Cove! (Seriously, these women drink A LOT of tea.)
This was my first foray into cozy mystery, and I have some thoughts. The story is very focused. I imagine this is a great genre for people with ADHD. Almost every word written is intentional and focused on the primary mystery. There isn't a lot of descriptive setting, (although enough to paint the picture of the town), not a lot of details to get lost in, chapters and paragraphs are short, the plot moves swiftly along, and the characters are very straightforward. This book was less than 300 pages and a pretty easy read. If you like the idea of reading but often find books to be tedious and have a hard time staying focused on the story, cozy mysteries may be just the thing for you!
I don't know that my shelves will ever be lined with "cozies". BUT, the writing is solid, I did like the characters, and there are cranberry recipes at the end of the book! (The main character runs a bakery at her brother's cranberry farm. Also, love her brother.) This is the second book featuring this heroine, and I did not read the first. I probably should have. I felt like I was missing some references and was perhaps supposed to be familiar with some people who were new to me. All in all, an enjoyable read. It's good to know that there is a genre to pick up when you want to read but don't have a lot of mental bandwidth available.
This was my first foray into cozy mystery, and I have some thoughts. The story is very focused. I imagine this is a great genre for people with ADHD. Almost every word written is intentional and focused on the primary mystery. There isn't a lot of descriptive setting, (although enough to paint the picture of the town), not a lot of details to get lost in, chapters and paragraphs are short, the plot moves swiftly along, and the characters are very straightforward. This book was less than 300 pages and a pretty easy read. If you like the idea of reading but often find books to be tedious and have a hard time staying focused on the story, cozy mysteries may be just the thing for you!
I don't know that my shelves will ever be lined with "cozies". BUT, the writing is solid, I did like the characters, and there are cranberry recipes at the end of the book! (The main character runs a bakery at her brother's cranberry farm. Also, love her brother.) This is the second book featuring this heroine, and I did not read the first. I probably should have. I felt like I was missing some references and was perhaps supposed to be familiar with some people who were new to me. All in all, an enjoyable read. It's good to know that there is a genre to pick up when you want to read but don't have a lot of mental bandwidth available.
January 29, 2019
Quick, fun, solid cozy mystery.
October 12, 2024
I keep reading them because they’re like cotton candy. 😄
May 31, 2023
This is a good second entry in the Cranberry Cove series.
September 21, 2025
The characters are well written and have real issues. In this second book I liked that Monica’s mother incomes to town. This just added to the mystery in the story. The mystery was well written and the town and it’s would be a cozy place to visit.
December 6, 2018
Review coming
May 8, 2016
It’s the dead of winter in Cranberry Cove, Michigan and new mayor Preston Crowley has come up with the idea of Winter Walk, to bring in more tourists and an influx of cash to the town. All the stores along Beach Hollow Road are lit up with white lights and various booths are set up along the closed sidewalks. Tourists and residents are all excited but not everything is going smoothly. Only minutes before the Winter Walk is supposed to start, the mayor’s body is discovered.
Questions start to arise as to who would kill the mayor and why. It seems the mayor wasn’t as honorable as he seemed, but how far does his transgressions go? During the investigation, it is discovered the esteemed mayor was not only dating Monica Albertson’s mother Nancy, but also her step-mother Gina. Knowing the prime suspect is usually the significant other, Monica isn’t about to let either woman go down for a crime they didn’t commit.
Berry the Hatchet, the second book in Peg Cochran’s Cranberry Cove Mystery series can be read as a standalone and proves to be one very enjoyable and entertaining read. The story holds quite a few surprises for Monica and readers. I loved the mystery of trying to figure out who the mayor truly was and why someone would want him dead. I have to admit, I definitely didn’t see the “why” coming. Nancy and Gina proved to be a very interesting pair. I continue to love the characters in this series, who each prove to add a little information to help Monica along with her investigation. I love that Detective Stevens shares information with Monica, but I have to wonder if she’s hoping Monica will solve the case for her. I’m loving this series and I’m looking forward to more books. However, I really hope the next murder victim isn’t another mayor of the town. With two mayors killed in less than a six month time frame, I’m thinking at some point people will stop trying to run for office.
**Received a copy from Berkley in exchange for an honest unbiased opinion.**
Questions start to arise as to who would kill the mayor and why. It seems the mayor wasn’t as honorable as he seemed, but how far does his transgressions go? During the investigation, it is discovered the esteemed mayor was not only dating Monica Albertson’s mother Nancy, but also her step-mother Gina. Knowing the prime suspect is usually the significant other, Monica isn’t about to let either woman go down for a crime they didn’t commit.
Berry the Hatchet, the second book in Peg Cochran’s Cranberry Cove Mystery series can be read as a standalone and proves to be one very enjoyable and entertaining read. The story holds quite a few surprises for Monica and readers. I loved the mystery of trying to figure out who the mayor truly was and why someone would want him dead. I have to admit, I definitely didn’t see the “why” coming. Nancy and Gina proved to be a very interesting pair. I continue to love the characters in this series, who each prove to add a little information to help Monica along with her investigation. I love that Detective Stevens shares information with Monica, but I have to wonder if she’s hoping Monica will solve the case for her. I’m loving this series and I’m looking forward to more books. However, I really hope the next murder victim isn’t another mayor of the town. With two mayors killed in less than a six month time frame, I’m thinking at some point people will stop trying to run for office.
**Received a copy from Berkley in exchange for an honest unbiased opinion.**
April 11, 2016
Ms. Cochran has cooked up a delightful read in this second book in the Cranberry Cove series. It is time for the Winter Walk, and the town is full of tourists, and soon to be suspects! Monica, our heroine/sleuth is busy trying to make her business a success, with the help of her brother. When a victim "arrives" at the walk, (I have to admit that I giggled a little at the way this happened) she is shocked to see who it is, and gets herself involved in trying to solve the case.
She has her hands full with her detecting, her friend Greg, and her mother, who arrives in town unexpectedly, the same town where her stepmother lives, and lets just say things get very interesting.
I loved this book, the setting is great, and the food descriptions will have you wanting to run to your kitchen trying to recreate the dishes. With a cast full of amazing characters, and a fun mystery, you will be reading late into the night trying to finish the book. This is a perfect cozy mystery! I look forward to the next in this series. I received an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
She has her hands full with her detecting, her friend Greg, and her mother, who arrives in town unexpectedly, the same town where her stepmother lives, and lets just say things get very interesting.
I loved this book, the setting is great, and the food descriptions will have you wanting to run to your kitchen trying to recreate the dishes. With a cast full of amazing characters, and a fun mystery, you will be reading late into the night trying to finish the book. This is a perfect cozy mystery! I look forward to the next in this series. I received an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2016
A superb story, and perfect addition to the Cranberry Cover Mystery series!
I was pretty sure author Peg Cochran could not top, BERRIED SECRETS, the first book in this series. Of course, I am wrong, and happily so. I never should have doubted Ms. Cochran’s writing abilities. Every book I read by this author is more brilliant than the one before.
The characters in the Cranberry Cove mysteries are simply a joy to read, and I have loved getting to know them. It really feels as though author Cochran has let the characters take on lives of their own. I could easily see myself living in the eclectic town of Cranberry Cove.
BERRY THE HATCHET is a fast moving, exciting mystery that I read in one sitting. Chapter after chapter I found myself turning pages faster with the need to get to the reveal. Wow! The ending was not one I would had ever guessed!
I’m already counting down the time to the next installment.
I was pretty sure author Peg Cochran could not top, BERRIED SECRETS, the first book in this series. Of course, I am wrong, and happily so. I never should have doubted Ms. Cochran’s writing abilities. Every book I read by this author is more brilliant than the one before.
The characters in the Cranberry Cove mysteries are simply a joy to read, and I have loved getting to know them. It really feels as though author Cochran has let the characters take on lives of their own. I could easily see myself living in the eclectic town of Cranberry Cove.
BERRY THE HATCHET is a fast moving, exciting mystery that I read in one sitting. Chapter after chapter I found myself turning pages faster with the need to get to the reveal. Wow! The ending was not one I would had ever guessed!
I’m already counting down the time to the next installment.
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