What do you think?
Rate this book
Donut Hole Mystery #15
Chocolate Crunch Murder
When Heather Shepherd hears that the owner of her favorite burger bar has been murdered, she can’t believe her ears. To make matters worse, her employee, Jung, who just happened to be best friends with the victim, is the main suspect.
Heather refuses to believe that her assistant could have anything to do with it and decides to help Ryan with his new case – off the record, of course. Equipped with her sleuthin’ prowess and a couple new and old friends for company, she hurries over to the closed restaurant to investigate. But things aren’t as simple as they seem. There are pest troubles in the neighborhood, a large order of Chocolate Crunch Donuts to fill, a potentially violent grandma to interview, and an ever-snooping Geoff Lawless to contend with before she can get to the bottom of this sweet caper.
Heather must use her talent to figure it out, or the creepy killer might just strike again when the residents of Hillside least expect it.
Heather refuses to believe that her assistant could have anything to do with it and decides to help Ryan with his new case – off the record, of course. Equipped with her sleuthin’ prowess and a couple new and old friends for company, she hurries over to the closed restaurant to investigate. But things aren’t as simple as they seem. There are pest troubles in the neighborhood, a large order of Chocolate Crunch Donuts to fill, a potentially violent grandma to interview, and an ever-snooping Geoff Lawless to contend with before she can get to the bottom of this sweet caper.
Heather must use her talent to figure it out, or the creepy killer might just strike again when the residents of Hillside least expect it.
- GenresMysteryCozy Mystery
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 6, 2016
29 people are currently reading
152 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 3, 2018
Heather is out to eat at a local hamburger joint when she sees one of her employees, Jung, having a fight with the chef, Randy Morton. Jung apologizes to Heather the next day that she had to see him having a fight with someone in public, as it might reflect badly on Heather's business, Donut Delights. But it gets much worse than a yell-fest when Randy is discovered dead in his shop, a doughnut shoved in his mouth and rat droppings all over his white chef's uniform. Jung, unfortunately, is the number one suspect in the killing because of the very public fight he had with the man the day before his death. Heather knows her employee wouldn't kill someone....so she's on the case to prove his innocence.
Chocolate Crunch Murder is the 15th novella in this light cozy mystery series. I like the characters and the doughnut shop theme. Reading all these books involving doughnuts has me really wanting one....I can only have a treat like that once every two weeks due to a very strict diet I follow for medical reasons. My next treat day is in a week......and I've already decided I am having a doughnut. :) I will think fondly of Susan Gillard as I chow down on some major messy chocolate goodness. :) The murder portion of the plot I will just read about though! :)
While this book has some editing issues (a continuing problem with this series and many other self-pub books), the mystery was enjoyable and fast-paced. The ending was a bit strange, and more than slightly creepy, but I imagine most murder cases are strange and creepy. These books are light, entertaining and quick. Perfect for on-the-go reading on trips, while waiting for appointments, etc.
There are 60 novellas in the Donut Hole series, plus a spin-off series, Oceanside Cozy Mysteries.
Chocolate Crunch Murder is the 15th novella in this light cozy mystery series. I like the characters and the doughnut shop theme. Reading all these books involving doughnuts has me really wanting one....I can only have a treat like that once every two weeks due to a very strict diet I follow for medical reasons. My next treat day is in a week......and I've already decided I am having a doughnut. :) I will think fondly of Susan Gillard as I chow down on some major messy chocolate goodness. :) The murder portion of the plot I will just read about though! :)
While this book has some editing issues (a continuing problem with this series and many other self-pub books), the mystery was enjoyable and fast-paced. The ending was a bit strange, and more than slightly creepy, but I imagine most murder cases are strange and creepy. These books are light, entertaining and quick. Perfect for on-the-go reading on trips, while waiting for appointments, etc.
There are 60 novellas in the Donut Hole series, plus a spin-off series, Oceanside Cozy Mysteries.
May 25, 2020
Another Doughnut mystery! Heather being Heather and 'sleuthing' (why don't I like that word?), and Amy having turned into 'Ames' is now a baker too. A doughnut-maker. Hmm. Anyway. Dave is still annoying. And we have an addition to the team: Lilly (who is 9 or 10) and is already doing some impressive detective work, while vacillating between being adorable and downright unpleasant. We had little of Ryan in this one. As usual, I know what I am walking into when I read these books (and I will keep reading them, as long as I can get my hands on them) - bu the sheer ludicrousness of this big reveal in this one. Gosh. It's beyond me. It's beyond words and criticism. Let's just leave it at that. The doughnuts did seem delicious, though.
June 6, 2017
I swear that Heather's store is the center of all crimes in this neighborhood and either her or her staff are implied in multiple murders. We get to hear more about Jung in this book and it's very interesting. However, the very public fight that he had does seem out of character but I assume that it was just written to be in the moment. This murder was more realistic in my opinion and I could see it actually happening in the real world. Though I don't want to spoil the ending at all. Heather's procedure is getting better but that is to be expected.
I enjoyed this book, but it is a fluffy mystery and a very light read.
I enjoyed this book, but it is a fluffy mystery and a very light read.
February 7, 2018
Another good story in the series. I enjoy the series because the characters are developed as time goes by and there is humor and no foul language. The chapters are short and the story just moves along at a good pace.
February 28, 2019
Heather’s employee Jung is a suspect in the murder. The owner where Heather and Ryan was having hamburgers, had a fight with Jung earlier that evening.with the help of the other employees they set out to clear him.
December 1, 2017
Wonderful story as always. Looking forward to the next.
April 19, 2019
I enjoy the characters and the mysteries. The only issue I have is with all of the typos. There seem to be several with each book.
August 9, 2016
Nothing stops a good donut maker/investigator-in-training from solving yet another murder in her hometown of Hillside, Texas and Heather Shepherd is just the donut maker/investigator-in-training to do the job.
Randy Morton, owner of Randy’s Burger Bar, was found strangled with a donut in his mouth. Heather was sure she would be the prime suspect, yet again, but her husband, police Detective Ryan Shepherd, was with her when the murder happened so Heather is in the clear. But Randy’s best friend, Jung, who is also Heather’s assistant in her cupcake bakery business, Donut Delights, isn’t as lucky as Heather. Many people witnessed an argument Jung and Randy had at Randy’s Burger Bar just before the murder and the police are keeping a sharp eye on Jung.
Heather knows that Jung wouldn’t kill anyone or anything and assures him that she’s on the case. Even Ryan knows that Heather will investigate and has kind of asked her to help him with his own police investigation. Along with her best friend Amy, her dog Dave, and 10-year-old Lily Jones, the group is sure to find the real killer to make sure that Jung does not end up in jail.
But there are so many suspects. Randy’s grandmother, who lives above Randy’s Burger Bar, hates her grandson; then there’s Bob, an exterminator from Bob Bug Debunker looking to get rid of a sudden rat infestation; and even Geoff Lawless, who is still sneaking around trying to figure out Heather’s cupcake recipes is on the suspect list. Anyone of these people could have strangled Randy. Heather and Amy even considered Jung for a moment or so but soon convinced themselves that they were wrong. Heather and her friends are determined to help out Jung and put the real criminal behind bars.
“Chocolate Crunch Murder: A Donut Hole Cozy Mystery” is the 15th book is this adorable cozy mystery series by Susan Gillard. The plot lines are cute and very entertaining and all the talk about donuts will make you very hungry for a dozen or two. The novel is short enough so you can read it in one enjoyable day and the characters are so friendly that you like visiting them throughout the series.
Do yourself a favor and pick up any one of the 15 books just be prepared that, like a yummy donut, you’ll be coming back for more.
Randy Morton, owner of Randy’s Burger Bar, was found strangled with a donut in his mouth. Heather was sure she would be the prime suspect, yet again, but her husband, police Detective Ryan Shepherd, was with her when the murder happened so Heather is in the clear. But Randy’s best friend, Jung, who is also Heather’s assistant in her cupcake bakery business, Donut Delights, isn’t as lucky as Heather. Many people witnessed an argument Jung and Randy had at Randy’s Burger Bar just before the murder and the police are keeping a sharp eye on Jung.
Heather knows that Jung wouldn’t kill anyone or anything and assures him that she’s on the case. Even Ryan knows that Heather will investigate and has kind of asked her to help him with his own police investigation. Along with her best friend Amy, her dog Dave, and 10-year-old Lily Jones, the group is sure to find the real killer to make sure that Jung does not end up in jail.
But there are so many suspects. Randy’s grandmother, who lives above Randy’s Burger Bar, hates her grandson; then there’s Bob, an exterminator from Bob Bug Debunker looking to get rid of a sudden rat infestation; and even Geoff Lawless, who is still sneaking around trying to figure out Heather’s cupcake recipes is on the suspect list. Anyone of these people could have strangled Randy. Heather and Amy even considered Jung for a moment or so but soon convinced themselves that they were wrong. Heather and her friends are determined to help out Jung and put the real criminal behind bars.
“Chocolate Crunch Murder: A Donut Hole Cozy Mystery” is the 15th book is this adorable cozy mystery series by Susan Gillard. The plot lines are cute and very entertaining and all the talk about donuts will make you very hungry for a dozen or two. The novel is short enough so you can read it in one enjoyable day and the characters are so friendly that you like visiting them throughout the series.
Do yourself a favor and pick up any one of the 15 books just be prepared that, like a yummy donut, you’ll be coming back for more.
August 12, 2016
Finally we get a small glimpse at Jung! I was happy to see a story focused on Heather's assistant. Too bad it wasn't much of a glimpse. I feel like we know more about Angelica, Marciela and Ken. We seen more about Amy, Eva and Geoff than we have about Jung. I was happy, but disappointed also. I hope we see more in the future. It's one of the reasons I like this series. The characters develop and grow. Not just Heather, but all of them.
I liked the storyline in this one. I didn't guess the murderer right away like I sometimes do. That was refreshing.
So Heather and Ryan witness an argument between friends Jung and Randy at Randy's restaurant. The next day, Randy is found dead. Jung is the number 1 suspect, but also includes Randy's wheelchair bound grandmother and a vagrant. There are flying teacups and rats abound in this edition.
Geoff makes his comic cameo as always. He is always good for a laugh.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the storyline in this one. I didn't guess the murderer right away like I sometimes do. That was refreshing.
So Heather and Ryan witness an argument between friends Jung and Randy at Randy's restaurant. The next day, Randy is found dead. Jung is the number 1 suspect, but also includes Randy's wheelchair bound grandmother and a vagrant. There are flying teacups and rats abound in this edition.
Geoff makes his comic cameo as always. He is always good for a laugh.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 19, 2016
Chocolate Crunch Murder is the latest offering in the Donut Hole Cozy Mystery series. Heather Shepard (donut maker extraordinaire and aspiring PI) returns along with her police detective husband, BFF and assistant Amy, and 10 year old Lily (who idolizes Heather). The rest of Heather's staff from Donut Delights also play a part in this story line, especially Jung who finds himself the prime suspect in the murder of Randy Morton. Morton, owner of Randy's Burger Bar and longtime friend of Jung's, is discovered strangled shortly after a heated argument with Jung. Factor in numerous other lesser suspects and an order for 500 chocolate crunch donuts and Heather has her hands full again.
Susan Gillard has developed a very likeable heroine in Heather Shepard and by keeping the story lines fresh has continued her characters' development in each book. All in all the Donut Hole mysteries are very enjoyable.
I was given an ARC in return for the honest review you see here.
Susan Gillard has developed a very likeable heroine in Heather Shepard and by keeping the story lines fresh has continued her characters' development in each book. All in all the Donut Hole mysteries are very enjoyable.
I was given an ARC in return for the honest review you see here.
August 15, 2016
The latest new donut at the Donut Delights is the
Chocolate Crunch. Heather Shepherd has received an
order for 500 Chocolate Crunch donuts. Her biggest order
so far. Yum…Yum…
Randy Morton who was the owner of Randy’s Burger Bar
is found dead. He was strangled and found with a donut in
his mouth plus rat excrements on his dead body.
Jung who was Randy’s best friend and is Heather’s
assistant seems to be the prime suspect. This becomes
especially true after Jung discovers he is the heir of Randy’s
will.
Heather sets out to clear Jung’s name. She is accompanied
by her best friend, Amy, Dave the dog and a ten year old
named Lily Jones.
Interesting characters present as suspects. A good read.
This is book #15 in A Donut Hole Cozy Mystery series.
Thank you to the author for this eBook. My opinion is
my own
Chocolate Crunch. Heather Shepherd has received an
order for 500 Chocolate Crunch donuts. Her biggest order
so far. Yum…Yum…
Randy Morton who was the owner of Randy’s Burger Bar
is found dead. He was strangled and found with a donut in
his mouth plus rat excrements on his dead body.
Jung who was Randy’s best friend and is Heather’s
assistant seems to be the prime suspect. This becomes
especially true after Jung discovers he is the heir of Randy’s
will.
Heather sets out to clear Jung’s name. She is accompanied
by her best friend, Amy, Dave the dog and a ten year old
named Lily Jones.
Interesting characters present as suspects. A good read.
This is book #15 in A Donut Hole Cozy Mystery series.
Thank you to the author for this eBook. My opinion is
my own
August 11, 2016
When Randy Morton, the owner of Randy’s Burger Bar, is found strangled, his best friend and Heather’s employee, Jung, is considered a suspect because he had recently been seen arguing with Randy. Ryan is the detective on the case he and tells Heather he doesn’t want to know if she’s investigating (even though he knows she will), but that if she happens to hear a rumor and wants to discuss it with him, he’d make time for her. Heather knows Jung isn’t guilty and with the help of her best friend, Amy, she sets out to prove it.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 9, 2016
I'm going to give this book a 4-star only because I felt that the murderer was an afterthought of the actual book. While the book was good and there were many suspects it just threw me off on how the author decided to use the murderer that she used. But I did like about the book is that the story continues with the girl from the previous book Lily that relationship there and I would like to see where it goes in the future. Also Heather is still working on her PA license which is great and I can't wait to see if she's going to open up another business along with the donut shop or if this is just her way of snooping professionally.
August 11, 2016
Triple-dipped donuts, YUM!
Amid creating mouth-watering donuts, murder and rats run rampant in Hillside. Gillard created another winner adding in a 10 year old to the list of sleuths. The gang is all there, Jung accused of murder, Heather cracking the books, donut thieves wrestling for crumbs and Ames doing a different kind of "leg" work. The plot twists leave you guessing until the end. Spoiler alert: in a million guesses, you will be surprised at the end. Join the gang and be prepared for; rats....ewwww.
Amid creating mouth-watering donuts, murder and rats run rampant in Hillside. Gillard created another winner adding in a 10 year old to the list of sleuths. The gang is all there, Jung accused of murder, Heather cracking the books, donut thieves wrestling for crumbs and Ames doing a different kind of "leg" work. The plot twists leave you guessing until the end. Spoiler alert: in a million guesses, you will be surprised at the end. Join the gang and be prepared for; rats....ewwww.
Read
August 14, 2016As Heather inches closer to her private investigator's license, one of her employees becomes a suspect in a murder. With Ryan back to investigating at the police department, he asks Heather not to get involved but by now we know her better than that. With her bestie, Amy, by her side, and surprises coming at every turn, she jumps head first into clearing her employee's name. Another delicious read!
August 9, 2016
Randy Morton the owner of Randy's Burger Bar was found strangled. Randy's best friend and Heathers assistant Jung could be a prime suspect.
Once again Heather uses her investigators skills to find the real killer. Many suspects for Heather to consider as she digs for the truth.
Another fun quick read in this series.
Once again Heather uses her investigators skills to find the real killer. Many suspects for Heather to consider as she digs for the truth.
Another fun quick read in this series.
August 9, 2016
Heather discovers the owner of Randy's Burger Bar has been murdered and her baker at Donut Delights, Jung, is the suspect. Heather is not going to keep her nose out of cops business, especially with Jung being their focal point. With the help of a friend or two, she sets out to find the killer. I loved this book, but have to admit the ending made me squeamish! Can't wait to read the next book!
August 21, 2016
This was a little offbeat for Heather. This time the person accused of murder is one of her workers and friends. But nothing seems to add up right and Heather and Ryan are having a time trying to figure this one out. Let me tell you, the ending took me by surprise. Came out of nowhere. I think it'll surprise you too.
I love these books and hope there are more to come.
I love these books and hope there are more to come.
August 8, 2016
Another winner! I love this series. Heather and Amy on the go again trying to help Ryan solve the murder of another business owner in town and clear her employee. Quick read and leaves you wanting more. Can't wait for more from the Heather, Amy, Ryan and Dave.
August 12, 2016
Enjoyable read
This is such and enjoyable series. Interesting ending. The shop owner is always a help to law enforcement, especially her husband. Make sure to read the series from the beginning and you enjoy them immensely
This is such and enjoyable series. Interesting ending. The shop owner is always a help to law enforcement, especially her husband. Make sure to read the series from the beginning and you enjoy them immensely
August 12, 2016
Cozy at its best
Susan Gillard has fast become one of my all time favorite authors. Follow Heather and her detective husband Ryan on a mystery to end all mysteries. There are rats and disgruntled grandma's in this one of a kind mystery. You will not be sorry. Happy reading!
Susan Gillard has fast become one of my all time favorite authors. Follow Heather and her detective husband Ryan on a mystery to end all mysteries. There are rats and disgruntled grandma's in this one of a kind mystery. You will not be sorry. Happy reading!
August 13, 2016
Review
A very easy and delightful read with a totally surprise ending. I have enjoyed every book in this series that I have had the pleasure of reading. Well written without unnecessary fluff or turns. Congratulations.
A very easy and delightful read with a totally surprise ending. I have enjoyed every book in this series that I have had the pleasure of reading. Well written without unnecessary fluff or turns. Congratulations.
August 14, 2016
Donuts Galore
The owner of Randy's Burger Bar, Randy Morton, is found murdered in his shop. Jung, who works at Donuts Delight, is seen arguing with Randy the day before, becomes the number one suspect. Nice little story with the usual colorful characters!
The owner of Randy's Burger Bar, Randy Morton, is found murdered in his shop. Jung, who works at Donuts Delight, is seen arguing with Randy the day before, becomes the number one suspect. Nice little story with the usual colorful characters!
August 18, 2016
All I can say is this one jumped the shark. I hope the next ones better or I'm done with the series.
April 25, 2017
Loved the continuation of the story. Liked Lilly's role and twist to end of story
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews