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Bakeshop Mystery #4
Caught Bread Handed
Welcome to Torte—a friendly, small-town family bake shop where the oven is heating up as high as the body count…
Jules Capshaw is still chewing over her husband Carlos’s return to Ashland, Oregon. Could there be too many cooks in the kitchen? Whatever is stirring between those two will have to wait. Despite the Oregon Shakespeare Festival being dark for the winter, the bakeshop is bustling, the dough is rolling, and there’s no rest for the weary…especially when murder is thrown into the mix.
When Mindy Nolan, the owner of a new restaurant in town, turns up dead, the batter at hand thickens. Jules knows that there was bad blood between Mindy and others in town, and tracking down the killer could prove to be an unwelcome treat. And to top it all off, there’s Carlos, who is pleading—with those delicious dark eyes and sexy Spanish accent—for Jules to take him back. Is home where the heart is or will she make a fresh start…and risk getting burned?
Jules Capshaw is still chewing over her husband Carlos’s return to Ashland, Oregon. Could there be too many cooks in the kitchen? Whatever is stirring between those two will have to wait. Despite the Oregon Shakespeare Festival being dark for the winter, the bakeshop is bustling, the dough is rolling, and there’s no rest for the weary…especially when murder is thrown into the mix.
When Mindy Nolan, the owner of a new restaurant in town, turns up dead, the batter at hand thickens. Jules knows that there was bad blood between Mindy and others in town, and tracking down the killer could prove to be an unwelcome treat. And to top it all off, there’s Carlos, who is pleading—with those delicious dark eyes and sexy Spanish accent—for Jules to take him back. Is home where the heart is or will she make a fresh start…and risk getting burned?
295 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 28, 2016
233 people are currently reading
2005 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Alexander
78 books3,034 followersEllie is a voracious storyteller and a lover of words and all things bookish. She believes that stories have the ability to transport and transform us. With over forty published novels and counting, her goal is to tell stories that provide points of connection, escape, and understanding.
She loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers in crafting the story they’ve always wanted to tell while navigating the path to publication that’s right for them.
Find out more about Ellie and her books by visiting her website at: http://www.elliealexander.co/ or following her on social media—
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She loves inhabiting someone else’s skin through the pages of a book and is passionate about helping writers find their unique storytelling lens. As a writing teacher and coach, she guides writers in crafting the story they’ve always wanted to tell while navigating the path to publication that’s right for them.
Find out more about Ellie and her books by visiting her website at: http://www.elliealexander.co/ or following her on social media—
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellie_alexa...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elliealexande...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/elliealexande...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elliealexand...
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https://www.pinterest.com/elliealexan...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 336 reviews
June 13, 2020
Can't believe it but this book was sooo boring. So disappointed, there was too much of non-mystery going on. I understand it's a culinary cozy mystery, but all the baking and Jules personal life took up most of the book, which after a point got really on my nerves. Nevertheless, I'll be picking up the next book, just hope that one's better. Giving 2 stars to Richard Lord because he cracked me up 😂😂
March 4, 2018
Imaginative writing and tasty food. Made this series one of my favorites. Caught Bread handed had me on the edge of my seat. With A complicated romance. Baker and proprietor of Torte, Jules Capshaw's husband. Chef Carlos is back in town. From his career of cooking on a ship. A delightful cast of characters. The story is suspenseful and romantic.
The murder ties in with the plot. Seamlessly. Baking and cooking at Torte are favorite moments. Jules cleverly injects herself into the murder investigation. As always. I'll repeatedly come back for the food and murder. Again and again. I'm thrilled to read the next book. There's a cliffhanger. It left me eager to grab the next book.
I received this book from NetGalley and the publisher for an honest review.Thank you.
The murder ties in with the plot. Seamlessly. Baking and cooking at Torte are favorite moments. Jules cleverly injects herself into the murder investigation. As always. I'll repeatedly come back for the food and murder. Again and again. I'm thrilled to read the next book. There's a cliffhanger. It left me eager to grab the next book.
I received this book from NetGalley and the publisher for an honest review.Thank you.
April 3, 2016
My review of Caught Bread Handed has pretty much the same points as the other reviews I have done for this series. Where is the mystery? Someone dies early on, but there's no investigating until about 50%, besides a few questions to Juliet, we're not privy to any of the investigation. It's Lance, not Juliet who investigates, briefly, another possible suspect. There is no way we could know who did it and why when it's finally revealed.
This book is primarily about Juliet working in the family bakery, what they are making, how they are turning the business around, the great staff, etc. Her husband Carlos is there but forget about any romance (triangle or otherwise). Juliet and Carlos exchange about 6 sentences in the whole book. Thomas and she interact even less.
It wasn't an unpleasant read, but I see no reason to recommend this book to anyone. It's not for mystery lovers, it's not for romance readers and despite the food talk it's not really for serious foodies. Books with recipes at the end are a dime a dozen these days (though the flour frosting has me tempted).
I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
This book is primarily about Juliet working in the family bakery, what they are making, how they are turning the business around, the great staff, etc. Her husband Carlos is there but forget about any romance (triangle or otherwise). Juliet and Carlos exchange about 6 sentences in the whole book. Thomas and she interact even less.
It wasn't an unpleasant read, but I see no reason to recommend this book to anyone. It's not for mystery lovers, it's not for romance readers and despite the food talk it's not really for serious foodies. Books with recipes at the end are a dime a dozen these days (though the flour frosting has me tempted).
I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
May 9, 2020
Dollycas’s Thoughts
There’s a new restaurant in the Shakespeare part of town and the only thing that blends this restaurant with the rest of the businesses in the area is its name ShakesBurgers. The facade of the building has been updated and is ultramodern and that has more than one of the merchant’s panties in a twist, especially Rosalind Gates, president of Ashland Downtown Association. The new owner Mindy Nolan doesn’t seem to care and has no plans to bow to their wishes even after a town meeting.
Jules notices the door of ShakesBurgers is ajar the next while she is out making her deliveries and when she steps inside she makes a ghastly discovery. Mindy dead on the floor and her partner trying to save her. Calling in her favorite police officers, Jules tries to shake off what she had seen, but can’t let it go.
Jules is also trying to make a huge decision regarding Carlos. Can they have a life together? What does that mean for her career?
______
I am really enjoying the characters in this series and the way they continue to evolve. All the relationships are captivating and interesting. The dialogue rings true. The story is very character-driven as most of the focus was on their lives at the restaurant Torte. Jules’ life is filled even before adding hubby Carlos to the mix. As in the last book, Carlos seems to fit in with everyone everywhere he goes. He is supportive and happy to do anything he can for Jules, her mom, and the restaurant. Carlos and Jules aren’t the only ones working on their relationship. Romance seems to be blooming a Torte for another couple too. And the Professor and Jules’ mom may be entering a new area of their relationship.
One of my favorite things in the book is the way the business is expanding with things like the Sunday Supper. Carlos takes the reins this time and really pulls out the stops. Torte is facing real situations, cash crunches, needing new equipment, etc. and I like that everything is not always rosy and they need to work hard every day for success.
To me the mystery this time was pretty basic. I was laser-focused on the real culprit very early in the story, I was just waiting for Jules, Thomas, and the Professor to catch up. I wish there had been a little more depth and more investigating but I was very pleased with the exciting ending.
As with all books in this series, the food described in just awesome and there are recipes at the back of the book.
Strong characters with the perfect amount of humor and romance mixes together with a satisfactory whodunit in Caught Bread Handed. I am looking forward to reading Fudge and Jury next.
There’s a new restaurant in the Shakespeare part of town and the only thing that blends this restaurant with the rest of the businesses in the area is its name ShakesBurgers. The facade of the building has been updated and is ultramodern and that has more than one of the merchant’s panties in a twist, especially Rosalind Gates, president of Ashland Downtown Association. The new owner Mindy Nolan doesn’t seem to care and has no plans to bow to their wishes even after a town meeting.
Jules notices the door of ShakesBurgers is ajar the next while she is out making her deliveries and when she steps inside she makes a ghastly discovery. Mindy dead on the floor and her partner trying to save her. Calling in her favorite police officers, Jules tries to shake off what she had seen, but can’t let it go.
Jules is also trying to make a huge decision regarding Carlos. Can they have a life together? What does that mean for her career?
______
I am really enjoying the characters in this series and the way they continue to evolve. All the relationships are captivating and interesting. The dialogue rings true. The story is very character-driven as most of the focus was on their lives at the restaurant Torte. Jules’ life is filled even before adding hubby Carlos to the mix. As in the last book, Carlos seems to fit in with everyone everywhere he goes. He is supportive and happy to do anything he can for Jules, her mom, and the restaurant. Carlos and Jules aren’t the only ones working on their relationship. Romance seems to be blooming a Torte for another couple too. And the Professor and Jules’ mom may be entering a new area of their relationship.
One of my favorite things in the book is the way the business is expanding with things like the Sunday Supper. Carlos takes the reins this time and really pulls out the stops. Torte is facing real situations, cash crunches, needing new equipment, etc. and I like that everything is not always rosy and they need to work hard every day for success.
To me the mystery this time was pretty basic. I was laser-focused on the real culprit very early in the story, I was just waiting for Jules, Thomas, and the Professor to catch up. I wish there had been a little more depth and more investigating but I was very pleased with the exciting ending.
As with all books in this series, the food described in just awesome and there are recipes at the back of the book.
Strong characters with the perfect amount of humor and romance mixes together with a satisfactory whodunit in Caught Bread Handed. I am looking forward to reading Fudge and Jury next.
January 9, 2022
.
In this 4th book, 'A Bakeshop Mystery Series', you will find another murder mystery. Jule's estranged husband, Carlos, showed up in her tiny hometown of Ashland, after being estranged and still continues to confuse her.
When Mindy Nolan, the owner of a new restaurant in town, turns up dead, the batter at hand thickens. Jules knows that there was bad blood between Mindy and others in town, and tracking down the killer could prove to be an unwelcome treat. And to top it all off, there’s Carlos, who is pleading—with those delicious dark eyes and sexy Spanish accent—for Jules to take him back. Is home where the heart is or will she make a fresh start…and risk getting burned?
I was able to read this series on my Kindle through my local Public Library. I am forever grateful for all the books I have been able to access in my exploration of the literary artist this way.
I would recommend this series to anyone who is interested in food and cozy mysteries, that are wrapped with an intriguing H.E.A. regarding the murder mystery.
.
In this 4th book, 'A Bakeshop Mystery Series', you will find another murder mystery. Jule's estranged husband, Carlos, showed up in her tiny hometown of Ashland, after being estranged and still continues to confuse her.
When Mindy Nolan, the owner of a new restaurant in town, turns up dead, the batter at hand thickens. Jules knows that there was bad blood between Mindy and others in town, and tracking down the killer could prove to be an unwelcome treat. And to top it all off, there’s Carlos, who is pleading—with those delicious dark eyes and sexy Spanish accent—for Jules to take him back. Is home where the heart is or will she make a fresh start…and risk getting burned?
I was able to read this series on my Kindle through my local Public Library. I am forever grateful for all the books I have been able to access in my exploration of the literary artist this way.
I would recommend this series to anyone who is interested in food and cozy mysteries, that are wrapped with an intriguing H.E.A. regarding the murder mystery.
.
Read
March 3, 2018Review coming soon
March 4, 2025
Oh boy, not my favorite in the series. I had looked at a couple other reviews and someone had mentioned that there was not enough of the mystery and too much about the cooking and food. They were absolutely right. The mystery had a lot of potential to be in more of the book, but as I kept reading, I was starting to forget what happened involving the mystery. There really was so much detail about what food they were making and all the details on how they were preparing the food. Of course this is a cozy mystery revolving around a bakeshop so you expect food, but the details would just keep going. A bit much for me. That started to get boring. Then the romance between Jules and Carlos. I know all the other women in the book swoon over him but I find his love bombing extreme and sometimes a little creepy. I don't know, just a feeling I get. I still enjoy this series and the characters so I did give it 3 stars. There were parts I enjoyed, but it needed to talk more about the case. I will continue with the series.
June 10, 2019
In some cozy mysteries, the sleuth does so much running around that I can't imagine her business surviving--I mean who runs a business by working a 1/2 hour a day? Jules apparently works from 4 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week while she solves crimes. But she doesn't do much crime solving because about 1/3 of the book is telling readers how to make frosting, or soup, or casseroles. I gave up baking about 20 years ago, but now that Alexander has discovered a new yeast that allows sourdough and rye bread to rise in 20 minutes, maybe I'll start baking again. She starts mixing at 4:30 and the five different breads are all finished baking before 6 a.m. There is also the decorating--spent about $200 on decorations for one dinner? Maybe that's why they can't afford new ovens. I'm not just being petty. I'm frustrated that I can never settle into the story because not only are the timelines unbelievable, but some of the food sounds downright disgusting.
March 14, 2025
This is such a solid cozy mystery series so far! It perfectly balances the murder mysteries with the characters development of our MC, Juliet. Not to mention I'm invested in so many of the side characters as well! I actually enjoyed that this book specifically put the murder mystery more on the back burner and focused on Juliet and Carlos. Usually marriage in trouble is a trope that doesn't interest me, but I'm fully invested in these two! A couple of books ago I was totally torn on the potential love triangle, but now I'm 100% team Carlos and hope he and Jules can figure out a way to make things work!
If this book was Taylor Swift lyrics:
"They all warned us about times like this
They say the road gets hard and you get lost
When you're led by blind faith
Blind faith"
If this book was Taylor Swift lyrics:
"They all warned us about times like this
They say the road gets hard and you get lost
When you're led by blind faith
Blind faith"
January 31, 2022
This is always a favorite series, and I enjoyed this entry immensely. The setting and characters are wonderful, and the mystery is always enjoyable. Definitely will be continuing with the series!
June 22, 2016
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from Minotaur and Netgalley. This title will be released on June 28. All thoughts stated in this review are entirely my own.*
This series is one of the best semi-new cozy mystery series for solid mysteries and characters that I've found yet. It's consistently solid and entertaining; something that even old, well established series can't always claim.
Jules recovered from her spineless state of the previous book and she even showed some stamina. She did have a few moments where she reverted to the unthinking, shallow character, but overall she was great. I couldn't stand Carlos for the first half of the book, but I must say towards the latter half I found myself liking him. He wasn't as fake as I'd thought before, and I actually liked him.
The mystery was simple, but really good, because it was so simple. Ashland sounds like a dream! I would love to go and sit in their theatre to watch some plays before getting a snack at Torte and going shopping at the specialty shops.
Overall an engaging read. I actually liked it more than the third in the series. Recommend!
This series is one of the best semi-new cozy mystery series for solid mysteries and characters that I've found yet. It's consistently solid and entertaining; something that even old, well established series can't always claim.
Jules recovered from her spineless state of the previous book and she even showed some stamina. She did have a few moments where she reverted to the unthinking, shallow character, but overall she was great. I couldn't stand Carlos for the first half of the book, but I must say towards the latter half I found myself liking him. He wasn't as fake as I'd thought before, and I actually liked him.
The mystery was simple, but really good, because it was so simple. Ashland sounds like a dream! I would love to go and sit in their theatre to watch some plays before getting a snack at Torte and going shopping at the specialty shops.
Overall an engaging read. I actually liked it more than the third in the series. Recommend!
June 28, 2016
As delicious, and intoxicating as the pastries in Torte, CAUGHT BREAD HANDED is the perfect ingredient in this culinary mystery series!
I remember pick up the first book in this series, MEET YOUR BAKER, and thinking how wonderful it sounded. Understatement! I was hooked before I was done with the first chapter. I’ve excitedly waited for each new installment since.
CAUGHT BREAD HANDED is a superb mystery that’s filled with excitement, fun, mystery, yummy food, great characters, a lovely location, everything readers look for in a cozy, and of course a murder victim, and enough suspects to keep you second guessing yourself.
There was only one aspect of this story, concerning a couple of characters, one in particular, I wasn’t really thrilled with. Other readers will no doubt be very happy with it. As for me, I’m waiting to see how it plays out in future books.
CAUGHT BREAD HANDED was a great book. You’re going to want to check it out, as well as the rest of the series!
You’ll find eight delectable recipes, and an expert from the next Bakeshop Mystery, all at the end of this book!
I remember pick up the first book in this series, MEET YOUR BAKER, and thinking how wonderful it sounded. Understatement! I was hooked before I was done with the first chapter. I’ve excitedly waited for each new installment since.
CAUGHT BREAD HANDED is a superb mystery that’s filled with excitement, fun, mystery, yummy food, great characters, a lovely location, everything readers look for in a cozy, and of course a murder victim, and enough suspects to keep you second guessing yourself.
There was only one aspect of this story, concerning a couple of characters, one in particular, I wasn’t really thrilled with. Other readers will no doubt be very happy with it. As for me, I’m waiting to see how it plays out in future books.
CAUGHT BREAD HANDED was a great book. You’re going to want to check it out, as well as the rest of the series!
You’ll find eight delectable recipes, and an expert from the next Bakeshop Mystery, all at the end of this book!
July 13, 2016
I wish I could give this book 3.5 stars. While the first 3 in series were strong plots, this one didn't hit the mark for me. This book focused more on the love triangle and Jules' future romance rather than the mystery. The series as a whole is wonderful and I'm hoping the next book in the series circles around and has a stronger plot and doesn't focus as much on Jules' love life. Throughout the last few chapters I was hoping there would be a twist that would bring it back to the mystery but alas there was none. You develop more of a love for the characters in this book as well as getting to know the true Jules. As always, I adore the Torte aspect of the series. I will be pre-ordering the next installment with hopes of a different angle and storyline.
December 27, 2023
I really like this series
Another good entry in the series. I like the characters and can’t wait to what happens next. The mystery was good. I’m even starting to come around to Carlos and hope he and Jules can have a happy ending. This book has also put me in a baking mood so I see some cake in my future.
Another good entry in the series. I like the characters and can’t wait to what happens next. The mystery was good. I’m even starting to come around to Carlos and hope he and Jules can have a happy ending. This book has also put me in a baking mood so I see some cake in my future.
January 10, 2019
I've enjoyed all these in the series so far. I can almost smell the bread baking. Jules Capshaw is a good heroine. However, in this book I would have liked to see more focus on the mystery.
December 25, 2023
The very much unliked manager of a fast food restaurant (in a Shakespeare-themed town) is murdered, just as Jules is finishing her bread delivery. The long list of suspects is making the police work hard. Meanwhile, Jules is having to deal with nearly-ex husband Carlos visiting, but leaving soon, as well as growing feelings for Thomas, her old boyfriend.
I really like this series. I even have a mad crush on Carlos. I drooled thru the whole book. Not enough recipes included.
I really like this series. I even have a mad crush on Carlos. I drooled thru the whole book. Not enough recipes included.
February 21, 2022
An amazing addition to the series! Absolutely floored by the ending - the red herrings in this book were incredible. My hat off to the author. This book definitely had more focus on personal subplots than usual, so if you're new to the series I'd start with one of the first books otherwise you might feel a little lost with this one. So excited for the next book!
August 25, 2021
I feel like there was a lot more baking in this book and it made me hungry. I was craving soup and freshly baked bread while reading. It feels like changes are coming and I'm excited to see if any of them come to fruition in the next book.
Read
September 7, 2022 If you're hungry this might be the book for you because they are cooking and baking throughout this novel, but if you're looking for a mystery, I would suggest you look elsewhere. It lacked sadly for me.
January 25, 2018
Winter in Ashland, Oregon is still dragging on but business has picked up at Torte and that makes Jules Capshaw happy. The only problem in her life is the fact that her estranged husband, Carlos is still there trying to work things out with their marriage. Then things get crazier when Jules discovers the owner of a new restaurant murdered. Jules was delivering baked goods to customers around the square when she came upon the body, with the woman's business partner trying to revive her. Jules knew that the woman had made many enemies around town with her planned restaurant, so how can Jules figure out who did it?
This fourth book in the series continues with wonderfully drawn characters and intricate murder plots. For those who enjoy baking there are lots of recipes at the end of each book that will have you drooling. A fun series that will give you a wonderful adventure.
This fourth book in the series continues with wonderfully drawn characters and intricate murder plots. For those who enjoy baking there are lots of recipes at the end of each book that will have you drooling. A fun series that will give you a wonderful adventure.
October 19, 2022
I am really enjoying this series. This time, new restaurant owner Mindy is killed. There are plenty of suspects since her fast food burger place wasn't welcome by the other business owners. The cute town of Ashland is home to a famous Shakespeare festival and the storefronts are Tudor in design, in keeping with the theme. Shakesburgers, with its lime green facade, didn't quite fit in.
This entry is a bit more focused on Jules' private life and a possible reunion with estranged husband Carlos. It's complicated since they obviously love each other but want different things. Looking forward to the next one!
This entry is a bit more focused on Jules' private life and a possible reunion with estranged husband Carlos. It's complicated since they obviously love each other but want different things. Looking forward to the next one!
March 15, 2024
This was so good :)
The first half was pretty slow and I was starting to think (sadly) that my run with the series was over. But it drew me in by the second half! The highlight for me was Carlos!!! He’s so romantic and such a joy to have around. I was swooning toward the end. I’m glad Jules has been acknowledging and appreciating him! Now I just want him to come back.
This mystery was much better than in the previous books. There wasn’t a good mystery-to-baking balance, but I ended up liking that the police was more on top of the case than Jules was. I’m looking forward to the next book, especially since I see a ship on the cover😍
More thoughts on reading updates!
The first half was pretty slow and I was starting to think (sadly) that my run with the series was over. But it drew me in by the second half! The highlight for me was Carlos!!! He’s so romantic and such a joy to have around. I was swooning toward the end. I’m glad Jules has been acknowledging and appreciating him! Now I just want him to come back.
This mystery was much better than in the previous books. There wasn’t a good mystery-to-baking balance, but I ended up liking that the police was more on top of the case than Jules was. I’m looking forward to the next book, especially since I see a ship on the cover😍
More thoughts on reading updates!
January 8, 2025
I love this series,this one just wasn’t a fav of mine. Too much relationship business for my taste. I don’t understand her relationship with her husband.
June 1, 2020
Definitely a cozy light mystery. This one focuses more on the characters than the mystery, especially Carlos & Jules marriage. I was hoping for more focus on the mystery, maybe a twist near the end. Still it was the light easy read I needed.
June 22, 2021
I’ve lost count but I think this is book #4 from the Bakeshop Mystery Cozy Series.
Generally I love to finish all books in a series in one go but this one is perfect to read each one as a stand alone in your free time. (And it has nothing to do with the fact that there are 11 books in total with more coming....🤫😂) lol
Rating: 4/5
Generally I love to finish all books in a series in one go but this one is perfect to read each one as a stand alone in your free time. (And it has nothing to do with the fact that there are 11 books in total with more coming....🤫😂) lol
Rating: 4/5
July 8, 2016
this review is also posted at: the Blacksheep Project. I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
* * *
Caught Bread Handed is a delectable read that made my stomach grumble at each chapter!
{ 5 things about Caught Bread Handed }
There's food!
and we all like (or maybe LOVE) food and I like reading about it too [Don't want to read about it? Let me tell you this, try reading and you'll end up looking for more books that involves your favorite pastries and coffee and everything else! Trust me.]! Ellie Alexander always throws in the perfect words to make me feel hungry. Caught Bread Handed, like any other A Bakeshop Mystery novel, has a good number of recipes you, my friends, should definitely try.
The romance is too sweet!
and part painful. At the beginning of the series, I was so sure that I'm #TeamThomas. Just look at how cute they are ad how caring Thomas is of Jules and how everything just felt so right. But then, Carlos enters the scene at book three (On Thin Icing). I ended up being torn between the two of them. But as I read through this book, I ended up wanting Jules and Carloes to happen - for them to get back, to be together for good, to settle down in Ashland. I JUST WANT THEM TOGETHER!! Carlos is just one of the sweetest man I read!
There's more to Ashland than Torte.
and the OSF, and the Mary Windsor. Oh come on now, the first three books were really focused on these three and this book showed that there's more to this small town- there are new establishments explored and newly introduced characters to make this even more enjoyable. I LOVE how Alenxader slowly but surely opens up Ashland and at the same time makes me feel that I'm there whenever I read it.
Jules and her dilemma.
I love Jules and I love her in Torte. Throughout the novel, she's torn between leaving Torte and Ashland for Carlos or staying with it and letting Carlos go (for a while). Her decision in the end stabbed me lightly (but whichever she chooses will give me the same feeling though. She just can't have everything.). At the end of the book, I just wanted to give Jules a pat in the back and tell her, you made your decision and however it turns out, I'm sure things will work out.
Jules is always a lady to root for! I want her happy. I want to see what's next for her, for Torte, and for her relationship with Carlos.
The murder.
How can we even forget this? While I loved almost every aspect of Caught Bread Handed, the mystery didn't felt strong for me. In the beginning, I did felt intrigued as always - the recalling of events, the rumor mill, the number of suspects. But as I read on, I ended up partially forgetting abut it and focusing more on things like Jules's dilemma, Carlos, Torte's business, etc. There are much more interesting things around!
But I do have to admit that I like the different take on the murder - the suicide look on the murdered, how it doesn't involve Jules running for her life (which is so typical and overused already), and the revealed suspect. It's not exactly bad. It's just pales in comparison to the mysteries of the previous books. And there really wasn't much thrill on this one.
OVERALL, Caught Bread Handed is an enjoyable cozy mystery read. The mystery was intriguing but wasn't as strong as those from the previous books. There's further delving into Jules character and her relationship with Carlos which is a huge plus! The recipes and food talk are, once again, completely great. It's highly recommended for those who enjoy cooking and baking (trust me, so much tips and tricks right here. Alexander definitely had great research and experience!).
* * *
Caught Bread Handed is a delectable read that made my stomach grumble at each chapter!
{ 5 things about Caught Bread Handed }
There's food!
and we all like (or maybe LOVE) food and I like reading about it too [Don't want to read about it? Let me tell you this, try reading and you'll end up looking for more books that involves your favorite pastries and coffee and everything else! Trust me.]! Ellie Alexander always throws in the perfect words to make me feel hungry. Caught Bread Handed, like any other A Bakeshop Mystery novel, has a good number of recipes you, my friends, should definitely try.
The romance is too sweet!
There's more to Ashland than Torte.
and the OSF, and the Mary Windsor. Oh come on now, the first three books were really focused on these three and this book showed that there's more to this small town- there are new establishments explored and newly introduced characters to make this even more enjoyable. I LOVE how Alenxader slowly but surely opens up Ashland and at the same time makes me feel that I'm there whenever I read it.
Jules and her dilemma.
I love Jules and I love her in Torte. Throughout the novel, she's torn between leaving Torte and Ashland for Carlos or staying with it and letting Carlos go (for a while). Her decision in the end stabbed me lightly (but whichever she chooses will give me the same feeling though. She just can't have everything.). At the end of the book, I just wanted to give Jules a pat in the back and tell her, you made your decision and however it turns out, I'm sure things will work out.
Jules is always a lady to root for! I want her happy. I want to see what's next for her, for Torte, and for her relationship with Carlos.
The murder.
How can we even forget this? While I loved almost every aspect of Caught Bread Handed, the mystery didn't felt strong for me. In the beginning, I did felt intrigued as always - the recalling of events, the rumor mill, the number of suspects. But as I read on, I ended up partially forgetting abut it and focusing more on things like Jules's dilemma, Carlos, Torte's business, etc. There are much more interesting things around!
But I do have to admit that I like the different take on the murder - the suicide look on the murdered, how it doesn't involve Jules running for her life (which is so typical and overused already), and the revealed suspect. It's not exactly bad. It's just pales in comparison to the mysteries of the previous books. And there really wasn't much thrill on this one.
OVERALL, Caught Bread Handed is an enjoyable cozy mystery read. The mystery was intriguing but wasn't as strong as those from the previous books. There's further delving into Jules character and her relationship with Carlos which is a huge plus! The recipes and food talk are, once again, completely great. It's highly recommended for those who enjoy cooking and baking (trust me, so much tips and tricks right here. Alexander definitely had great research and experience!).
May 17, 2019
Yet another chapter in the life of Juliet Capshaw.. Beyond the mystery, the side story of her life and business makes this series like a Hallmark movie.. Like the bakeshop goodies and coffee, I can only say.. More, please!
August 13, 2021
Very on brand for the lesbian to be like "Ugh, I wish this dude would go away."
Sorry not sorry, he's annoying and he took up way too much of the plot in this one! I've really enjoyed this series but this fourth book was very weak, largely because rather than a cozy mystery with a little romantic subplot, it felt more like a generic women's fiction novel with a murder in the background. For sure the majority of the book is focused on the bakeshop, the events they have coming up, and mostly, on Jules' angst and sighing over her loser estranged husband Carlos, who showed up in town in the last book and was still hanging around in this one. I mean, we know Jules is not going to leave the town and the bakery to go back to the cruise ship where the two of them worked as chefs. That's not even a question. So the whole book being this "Oh what should I do" thing was silly because we know what's going to happen: He's going to leave and she's going to stay.
The murder was like an afterthought. Jules comes across the body, as well as the dead woman's business partner with blood all over him, around 50 or so pages in...and in the remaining 240 pages, I swear maybe 25% at most was spent on the murder, the investigation, possible suspects, etc. Jules barely does anything with it besides have a few brief conversations. I don't know, maybe by now she's getting all Jessica Fletcher on us and she's just like "Oh, another murder, ho-hum" and then goes off to bake a cake or get all moony over Carlos and his accent. The reveal was also really anticlimactic, because while it's very true, as one of the characters says, that often the most obvious answer is the correct one...it doesn't make for a very gripping mystery novel.
That's another thing that bothered me with this one. The author gets a little heavy-handed with the whole "Latin lover" thing, to the point that it made me a little uncomfortable. He just feels so cliché and has no depth beyond his accent and his supposed suaveness. Oh and someone please tell her that people who speak English as a second language do use contractions sometimes!
I'll still certainly continue with the series, and just hope that Carlos stays away for at least a few books. But this was definitely the weakest of the series so far.
Sorry not sorry, he's annoying and he took up way too much of the plot in this one! I've really enjoyed this series but this fourth book was very weak, largely because rather than a cozy mystery with a little romantic subplot, it felt more like a generic women's fiction novel with a murder in the background. For sure the majority of the book is focused on the bakeshop, the events they have coming up, and mostly, on Jules' angst and sighing over her loser estranged husband Carlos, who showed up in town in the last book and was still hanging around in this one. I mean, we know Jules is not going to leave the town and the bakery to go back to the cruise ship where the two of them worked as chefs. That's not even a question. So the whole book being this "Oh what should I do" thing was silly because we know what's going to happen: He's going to leave and she's going to stay.
The murder was like an afterthought. Jules comes across the body, as well as the dead woman's business partner with blood all over him, around 50 or so pages in...and in the remaining 240 pages, I swear maybe 25% at most was spent on the murder, the investigation, possible suspects, etc. Jules barely does anything with it besides have a few brief conversations. I don't know, maybe by now she's getting all Jessica Fletcher on us and she's just like "Oh, another murder, ho-hum" and then goes off to bake a cake or get all moony over Carlos and his accent. The reveal was also really anticlimactic, because while it's very true, as one of the characters says, that often the most obvious answer is the correct one...it doesn't make for a very gripping mystery novel.
That's another thing that bothered me with this one. The author gets a little heavy-handed with the whole "Latin lover" thing, to the point that it made me a little uncomfortable. He just feels so cliché and has no depth beyond his accent and his supposed suaveness. Oh and someone please tell her that people who speak English as a second language do use contractions sometimes!
I'll still certainly continue with the series, and just hope that Carlos stays away for at least a few books. But this was definitely the weakest of the series so far.
June 22, 2016
An unnaturally warm winter is leading to some unnatural events in Ashland, Oregon. A national fast food chain restaurant has just moved in across the street from the small town's beloved bake shop, Torte. While the name may sound vaguely Shakespearean, nothing else about the garish, over-the-top Shakesburgers fits with the town's look or feel, and other business owners are gearing up to oust the newcomer. For heroine Juliet, the drama is just another layer of what she is already dealing with: operating a bakeshop with only one working oven, recovering from a financial situation deep in the red, and juggling her feelings about estranged husband, Carlos, who is in town to win back her heart.
One of my favorite things about reading books by Ellie Alexander and in the Bakeshop Mystery series, is how completely immersed I feel while reading. The scenes and settings are vivid, rich, and distinct. Reading feels more like visiting, walking alongside Jules as she makes deliveries to fellow business owners and stumbles upon the scene of a crime. Another favorite element is all of the wonderfully descriptive passages about what Jules and her staff are baking at Torte. I constantly find myself wishing I could taste the recipes, or looking for a snack to enjoy while I read (though what I come up with is, inevitably, not as good as what I assume the food at Torte would be). Having some of the recipes included is such a treat and I'm always eager to try and replicate them in my own kitchen.
Caught Bread Handed is another wonderful addition to the Bakeshop Mystery series. A fun read, a fast read, and a story that will make your heart race and your stomach growl!
One of my favorite things about reading books by Ellie Alexander and in the Bakeshop Mystery series, is how completely immersed I feel while reading. The scenes and settings are vivid, rich, and distinct. Reading feels more like visiting, walking alongside Jules as she makes deliveries to fellow business owners and stumbles upon the scene of a crime. Another favorite element is all of the wonderfully descriptive passages about what Jules and her staff are baking at Torte. I constantly find myself wishing I could taste the recipes, or looking for a snack to enjoy while I read (though what I come up with is, inevitably, not as good as what I assume the food at Torte would be). Having some of the recipes included is such a treat and I'm always eager to try and replicate them in my own kitchen.
Caught Bread Handed is another wonderful addition to the Bakeshop Mystery series. A fun read, a fast read, and a story that will make your heart race and your stomach growl!
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