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An Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery #3
Dial M for Mousse
The Emergency Dessert Squad business is booming, with owner and baker Winnie Johnson working overtime to satisfy the emergency cravings of Silver Lake, Ohio. Her latest order, a plate of motivational desserts for an artists' retreat, is just what she needs to keep her mind off her own relationship woes. But Winnie's problems seem like trifles when she discovers the body of retreat owner Sally Dearfield mere inches away from five oh-so-eccentric and viable suspects. Now, this baking detective must uncover the inspiration behind Sally's murder before another creative genius is iced.
295 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published January 2, 2018
52 people are currently reading
472 people want to read
About the author
Laura Bradford
58 books885 followersAka Elizabeth Lynn Casey.
While spending a rainy afternoon at a friend's house nearly forty years ago, Laura Bradford fell in love with writing over a stack of blank paper, a box of crayons, and a freshly sharpened number two pencil.
Those early attempts at the craft had her writing and illustrating stories for young children. Wise beyond her years, Laura saved her first writing attempt in a hand decorated shoe box (complete with sparkly stickers) and moved on to her next idea. Her second book—O’Casey’s Wish—was so utterly brilliant, she sent it off to a well-known New York publishing house at the tender age of ten, confident she was on the verge of becoming the next Don Freeman (Corduroy) or Shel Silverstein (Giving Tree).
Months later, she received her first form letter rejection.
While she wasn’t of the mindset to save that first crushing blow for posterity, Laura did save the original copy of this particular literary masterpiece in the event the letter was a mistake.
Desperate to prove her flexibility as a writer, Laura soon found herself dabbling in jokes (for her Girl Scout troop’s newsletter), stories of angst (a somewhat autobiographical look at her teenage years), movie reviews (for the Xavier University Newswire), and countless news and feature articles (for newspapers in CT, SC, TN, and MO).
It wasn’t until Laura was home raising children of her own though, that she was finally able to dust off that rainy day dream and bring it back to its original form—writing fiction. Today, she is a bestselling mystery author with Berkley Prime Crime (Penguin Publishing), and an award winning romance author with Harlequin American. She lives in New York with her family.
Oh, and if you meet Laura at a book event in the future, ask her about O’Casey’s Wish. It tends to travel with her everywhere she goes.
While spending a rainy afternoon at a friend's house nearly forty years ago, Laura Bradford fell in love with writing over a stack of blank paper, a box of crayons, and a freshly sharpened number two pencil.
Those early attempts at the craft had her writing and illustrating stories for young children. Wise beyond her years, Laura saved her first writing attempt in a hand decorated shoe box (complete with sparkly stickers) and moved on to her next idea. Her second book—O’Casey’s Wish—was so utterly brilliant, she sent it off to a well-known New York publishing house at the tender age of ten, confident she was on the verge of becoming the next Don Freeman (Corduroy) or Shel Silverstein (Giving Tree).
Months later, she received her first form letter rejection.
While she wasn’t of the mindset to save that first crushing blow for posterity, Laura did save the original copy of this particular literary masterpiece in the event the letter was a mistake.
Desperate to prove her flexibility as a writer, Laura soon found herself dabbling in jokes (for her Girl Scout troop’s newsletter), stories of angst (a somewhat autobiographical look at her teenage years), movie reviews (for the Xavier University Newswire), and countless news and feature articles (for newspapers in CT, SC, TN, and MO).
It wasn’t until Laura was home raising children of her own though, that she was finally able to dust off that rainy day dream and bring it back to its original form—writing fiction. Today, she is a bestselling mystery author with Berkley Prime Crime (Penguin Publishing), and an award winning romance author with Harlequin American. She lives in New York with her family.
Oh, and if you meet Laura at a book event in the future, ask her about O’Casey’s Wish. It tends to travel with her everywhere she goes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
October 3, 2020
Although not the most exciting state Ohio that is (sorry buckeye’s...in my defense i'm also from the not so exciting state of Illinois) Silver Lake, Ohio is another story. I was excited to see Winnie and the gang again...ok, ok, ok, I really wanted to ride around more in the ambulance or “emergency squad” mobile. So, upon arriving and hearing we had a big delivery...I was super excited. Then when she explained the order...I was beyond excited!! I mean a magician, mime, poet, puppeteer, and comedian...if you knew me right now you would get how excited I was lol. Like thinking and plotting how I could run away with this eccentric group. Things took a downward spin and left me rethinking my getaway when we found the organizer of the event dead. I realized right away IT HAD TO BE one of the five entertainers. That will sober up grand illusions really quick. Winnie wanted to find out the truth, and it didn’t take long to figure out that everyone had a secret and a reason for wanting Sally Dearfield dead. Once again, I knew I was in for a wild ride!!...
My thoughts:
STAT, STAT, STAT, CODE RED if you have not checked out this series...STAT!! What a different fun premise. The irony of an ambulance that usually signifies hurt, illness, tragedy to be used for something good is so awesome!! But it is the whole concept...an emergency dessert...with a funny descriptive name (based on the emergency), transported by ambulance and delivered on a stretcher. Even an IV is included...of course the bag is filled with icing. I love her “senior” friends, and all their “ailments” and shenanigans. The mystery was well done. I thought it would be easy to deduce with only 5 suspects, but Bradford was able to weave an intricate plot. The recipes in this book sound mouth-watering and made me want to go on a sweet binge. There goes my diet...thanks Laura...thanks...sigh... lol. I was frustrated with her relationship with Jay, and even more so Jay’s daughter Caroline. I get the jealousy (her dad starting to date), but i'm ready to see the relationship grow or fizzle out.
For more book fun subscribe to my blog @: http://beachbumbookworm.com/
My thoughts:
STAT, STAT, STAT, CODE RED if you have not checked out this series...STAT!! What a different fun premise. The irony of an ambulance that usually signifies hurt, illness, tragedy to be used for something good is so awesome!! But it is the whole concept...an emergency dessert...with a funny descriptive name (based on the emergency), transported by ambulance and delivered on a stretcher. Even an IV is included...of course the bag is filled with icing. I love her “senior” friends, and all their “ailments” and shenanigans. The mystery was well done. I thought it would be easy to deduce with only 5 suspects, but Bradford was able to weave an intricate plot. The recipes in this book sound mouth-watering and made me want to go on a sweet binge. There goes my diet...thanks Laura...thanks...sigh... lol. I was frustrated with her relationship with Jay, and even more so Jay’s daughter Caroline. I get the jealousy (her dad starting to date), but i'm ready to see the relationship grow or fizzle out.
For more book fun subscribe to my blog @: http://beachbumbookworm.com/
January 2, 2018
When Winnie gets an advance order for the people staying at the retreat out of town, she gladly spends the weekend thinking up fun desserts to encourage these artists. However, when she goes to deliver them, she arrives just as the owner of the retreat center dies. Only later, Winnie begins to question what she saw. Was someone trying to deceive her at the time? Can she figure out what really happened?
This is such a fun idea and fun series, and this book was no exception. I did feel the emphasis was on the series regulars and their sub-plots, but I didn’t mind too much since I do like these characters. And that’s not to say we didn’t get some twists along the way to the climax. The suspects add to the fun as they are a very unique group of people.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
This is such a fun idea and fun series, and this book was no exception. I did feel the emphasis was on the series regulars and their sub-plots, but I didn’t mind too much since I do like these characters. And that’s not to say we didn’t get some twists along the way to the climax. The suspects add to the fun as they are a very unique group of people.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
January 13, 2018
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Winnie’s business continues to grow. With all her friend’s help, she creates delectable desserts to rescue her customers from things like a bad breakup, loss of a job, and anything else you can imagine. In this story, she has been asked to bake up motivational treats for a group of artists with different talents at a local retreat. After she delivers the goodies she goes to tell the owner and finds her dead on the floor with all the artists standing nearby. The police immediately suspect foul play and Winnie has a dessert connection with all the viable suspects which lands her right in the middle of another murder investigation.
The author has created a very unique theme for this series. After the expenses of having a bakery in a storefront became beyond what Winnie could afford she started a home-based business and uses an old ambulance she inherited to deliver her desserts to her customers. The treats even arrive on a stretcher complete with icing IV’s. She also inherited a cat that goes along for each delivery.
The characters are all very well developed. Most of Winnie’s friends are senior citizens and she has a real bond with them. They along with her best friend Renee are her taste testers and her confidants. Renee is also Winnie’s only employee. Her romantic relationship with a local college professor, who she met when making a delivery to him, is a little murky. His teenage daughter does not like her father giving anyone else attention and she has done everything she can to break them up.
I thought solving the murder this time would be easy as we knew from the start there were only five suspects, but it turned out to be very complex. None were very forthcoming and all appeared to be hiding something. Winnie didn’t give up though and I really enjoyed following each little hint and clue right along with her.
The clever theme of this series, interesting characters, and a very imaginative plot kept this reader very entertained. All the dessert talk and descriptions made my mouth water. I loved the names Winnie gave her goodies.
A fun read that stands on its own but the series is better served if you start at the beginning.
Winnie’s business continues to grow. With all her friend’s help, she creates delectable desserts to rescue her customers from things like a bad breakup, loss of a job, and anything else you can imagine. In this story, she has been asked to bake up motivational treats for a group of artists with different talents at a local retreat. After she delivers the goodies she goes to tell the owner and finds her dead on the floor with all the artists standing nearby. The police immediately suspect foul play and Winnie has a dessert connection with all the viable suspects which lands her right in the middle of another murder investigation.
The author has created a very unique theme for this series. After the expenses of having a bakery in a storefront became beyond what Winnie could afford she started a home-based business and uses an old ambulance she inherited to deliver her desserts to her customers. The treats even arrive on a stretcher complete with icing IV’s. She also inherited a cat that goes along for each delivery.
The characters are all very well developed. Most of Winnie’s friends are senior citizens and she has a real bond with them. They along with her best friend Renee are her taste testers and her confidants. Renee is also Winnie’s only employee. Her romantic relationship with a local college professor, who she met when making a delivery to him, is a little murky. His teenage daughter does not like her father giving anyone else attention and she has done everything she can to break them up.
I thought solving the murder this time would be easy as we knew from the start there were only five suspects, but it turned out to be very complex. None were very forthcoming and all appeared to be hiding something. Winnie didn’t give up though and I really enjoyed following each little hint and clue right along with her.
The clever theme of this series, interesting characters, and a very imaginative plot kept this reader very entertained. All the dessert talk and descriptions made my mouth water. I loved the names Winnie gave her goodies.
A fun read that stands on its own but the series is better served if you start at the beginning.
January 2, 2018
911! I’ve fallen for the Emergency Dessert Squad Mysteries!
Since the first book, ÉCLAIR AND PRESENT DANGER, I have been hooked on this deliciously tasty series. Having enjoyed my previous visits to Silver Lake, Ohio, I couldn’t wait to get back to visit with Winnie Johnson, and the wonderful characters of the Emergency Dessert Squad Mysteries. It was worth the wait!
Author Laura Bradford has one again delivered a mystery treat that I couldn’t put down! DIAL M FOR MOUSSE was a fast moving, full-flavored read that made me hungry for more with every page I read.
A first class murder mystery in every way, I was completely enthralled as I tried to figure out the who in the dunit, as well as the what, and why. I was so lost in the story, I found myself at the surprising, and brilliant conclusion before I knew it!
DIAL M FOR MOUSSE was the last book I read and reviewed for 2017, and I couldn’t have picked a better book to end the year with!
Since the first book, ÉCLAIR AND PRESENT DANGER, I have been hooked on this deliciously tasty series. Having enjoyed my previous visits to Silver Lake, Ohio, I couldn’t wait to get back to visit with Winnie Johnson, and the wonderful characters of the Emergency Dessert Squad Mysteries. It was worth the wait!
Author Laura Bradford has one again delivered a mystery treat that I couldn’t put down! DIAL M FOR MOUSSE was a fast moving, full-flavored read that made me hungry for more with every page I read.
A first class murder mystery in every way, I was completely enthralled as I tried to figure out the who in the dunit, as well as the what, and why. I was so lost in the story, I found myself at the surprising, and brilliant conclusion before I knew it!
DIAL M FOR MOUSSE was the last book I read and reviewed for 2017, and I couldn’t have picked a better book to end the year with!
February 17, 2022
Dial M for Mousse concludes The Emergency Dessert Squad series. In this Cozy Mystery a group of five entertainers come to town for what they think is a convention but learn they have been misled by Sally Deerfield the person in charge of their accommodations. She knew the convention had been canceled well ahead of time but had deliberately failed to tell the five entertainers about the cancellation because she wanted them to all be in town at the same time and staying at the same place. You see Sally knew secrets about each and everyone of them and she had been black mailing them for money to keep their secrets from the public. She wanted them all together so she could collect her blackmail money.
Sally had called the Emergency Dessert Squad to make special desserts for each and everyone of her guest. The day Winnie and Rena delivered the desserts there was a called luncheon meeting at the club house where the entertainers were staying. Winnie and Rena were to leave the desserts in each entertainers cabin. Deciding to stop off at the club house to let Sally know the desserts had been delivered they found her dead on the floor with a broken tea cup beside her. Standing around Sally were the five bewildered entertainers , the murderer among them. Something had gone terribly wrong with Sally Deerfield’s well and carefully thought out plans to get her blackmail money. With the Chief of Police’s mind on other things Winnie and her friends take over the investigation by putting their sleuthing talents together to solve this baffling mystery. Winnie also struggles with her relationship with Jay Morgan and the fact that his 16 year old daughter Caroline doesn’t like her. Winnie wonders if it wouldn’t be best to end the relationship instead of letting it come between Jay and his daughter.
This wasn’t my favorite of the three mysteries in this series. I listened to an audio and I didn’t care for the narrator. It would have been better if I had read the ebook. I did get drawn in mid way and was on the edge of my seat before the mystery was solved. I would have loved to see a fourth book in this series because I would have enjoyed finding out where Jay and Winnie were heading in their relationship.
I recommend this book to readers of Cozy Mystery and fans of Laura Bradford. I recommend that the books in this series be read in order.
Sally had called the Emergency Dessert Squad to make special desserts for each and everyone of her guest. The day Winnie and Rena delivered the desserts there was a called luncheon meeting at the club house where the entertainers were staying. Winnie and Rena were to leave the desserts in each entertainers cabin. Deciding to stop off at the club house to let Sally know the desserts had been delivered they found her dead on the floor with a broken tea cup beside her. Standing around Sally were the five bewildered entertainers , the murderer among them. Something had gone terribly wrong with Sally Deerfield’s well and carefully thought out plans to get her blackmail money. With the Chief of Police’s mind on other things Winnie and her friends take over the investigation by putting their sleuthing talents together to solve this baffling mystery. Winnie also struggles with her relationship with Jay Morgan and the fact that his 16 year old daughter Caroline doesn’t like her. Winnie wonders if it wouldn’t be best to end the relationship instead of letting it come between Jay and his daughter.
This wasn’t my favorite of the three mysteries in this series. I listened to an audio and I didn’t care for the narrator. It would have been better if I had read the ebook. I did get drawn in mid way and was on the edge of my seat before the mystery was solved. I would have loved to see a fourth book in this series because I would have enjoyed finding out where Jay and Winnie were heading in their relationship.
I recommend this book to readers of Cozy Mystery and fans of Laura Bradford. I recommend that the books in this series be read in order.
January 27, 2018
I loved this book as I do the series. It is such a unique theme and I wish it existed, emergency desserts to your door when you feel the need. Winnie and the gang are so much fun and it's easy to get involved in their lives. I want to hang around with these people, the friendship of Winnie and Renee shines through and how they have each others backs. Of course Mr. Nelson and Bridget when they get together always have me laughing, and I did have a few laugh out loud moments. The mystery was excellent and kept me guessing, I had no clue and as more is discovered the more confused I got as to who did it. I eagerly await the next in this series.
Oh and there is the added bonus of two yummy sounding recipes in the back each with Winnie's unique titles: Your Jokes Make Me Snicker-Doodle cookies and Now You See 'Em, Now You Don-Uts (Maple Glazed), how can you go wrong?
Oh and there is the added bonus of two yummy sounding recipes in the back each with Winnie's unique titles: Your Jokes Make Me Snicker-Doodle cookies and Now You See 'Em, Now You Don-Uts (Maple Glazed), how can you go wrong?
July 18, 2021
I really enjoyed this series and wish there were more books to read. I like the characters and the emergency dessert concept. There are recipes included at the end and I actually made the snickerdoodles before I finished reading the book!
January 17, 2018
Winne, the owner of The Emergency Dessert Squad, finds herself embroiled in a 3rd murder in the short time her business has been open. She is determined to find the culprit quickly from her 5 suspects, so that she can focus on getting her life back to normal. Not only is Winnie's relationship with her beau Jay rocky, she also struggles to balance her business and relationship with her friends with her constant sleuthing.
This series just gets better and better. I absolutely love the recurring characters; especially Renee and Greg. At this point I feel like I'm personally friends with Bridget and Mr. Nelson and they are just so endearing, yet strong characters. I found the performing artist suspects interesting and wish we could have seen a little more of them. Lovey's antics always make me smile or laugh, even though it causes Winnie distress. I find the idea of the Emergency Dessert Squad so exciting and truly wish it was a real thing that I could order from. I love learning the names and desserts that Winnie and her friends come up with.
As for the mystery itself, I really enjoyed it. I felt that it was put together well and I was easily convinced to tag along. It took a few unexpected twists and by the end I was completely stumped. I was surprised by the unveiling and the identity of the culprit, which was a great surprise. I also appreciate that there isn't a near-death, suspect confronting scene that usually accompanies the ending of cozy mysteries.
I personally am getting a little tired of Winnie and Jay's relationship woes and I have to say I'm starting to root more for Winnie and Greg to form a relationship, but I don't think that will actually happen.
I recommend this to all mystery lovers (and dessert lovers) and I can't wait for the next installment.
This series just gets better and better. I absolutely love the recurring characters; especially Renee and Greg. At this point I feel like I'm personally friends with Bridget and Mr. Nelson and they are just so endearing, yet strong characters. I found the performing artist suspects interesting and wish we could have seen a little more of them. Lovey's antics always make me smile or laugh, even though it causes Winnie distress. I find the idea of the Emergency Dessert Squad so exciting and truly wish it was a real thing that I could order from. I love learning the names and desserts that Winnie and her friends come up with.
As for the mystery itself, I really enjoyed it. I felt that it was put together well and I was easily convinced to tag along. It took a few unexpected twists and by the end I was completely stumped. I was surprised by the unveiling and the identity of the culprit, which was a great surprise. I also appreciate that there isn't a near-death, suspect confronting scene that usually accompanies the ending of cozy mysteries.
I personally am getting a little tired of Winnie and Jay's relationship woes and I have to say I'm starting to root more for Winnie and Greg to form a relationship, but I don't think that will actually happen.
I recommend this to all mystery lovers (and dessert lovers) and I can't wait for the next installment.
June 5, 2020
Devo dire che la soluzione finale è stata una sorpresa, ma in questo libro sono stata più attratta dai problemi personali della protagonista che dalla storia gialla vera e propria. Devo dire che il triangolo amoroso sembra essere stato risolto, anche se rimane un grosso problema da affrontare: cosa che non scopriremo mai, visto che questo è l'ultimo libro della serie, almeno che non ci siano ripensamenti da parte dell'autrice o della casa editrice (che ha "terminato" molte serie cozy mysteries negli ultimi anni).
December 31, 2017
Last night I finished Dial M for Mousse by Laura Bradford this is the 3rd book in the Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery series. There is something really special in the relationships that Laura writes and the importance she assigns her characters. I love that her characters are not all in their 30's. I appreciate that those who are "north of 75", play a major role not only in the book but in the day to day lives of the characters. While I find the idea of the dessert squad fun, I love the cozy even more for the relationships than the desserts, which is saying a lot as the desserts are very smart and sound fantastic. It is wonderful to see that life goes on and evolves for everyone and that the curious mind doesn't rest and is valuable at any age. This one is out January 2nd and has moments that make you laugh and make you want to cry a happy tear or two. This is a lovely series that will leave you with that cozy feeling and hope in your heart.
April 10, 2018
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April 7, 2019
When Winnie gets called for a rescue delivery from the owner of an artists’ retreat, she’s excited to put together a series of desserts for a group of performers s. However, things go awry when the delivery is over, and she stumbles upon the body of her newly dead client. To top things off, her personal life is in shreds when she accidentally hurts some feelings of a close friend and her boyfriend is barely touching base. Determined to bake her way through her personal woes, Winnie throws herself into work… and a murder investigation.
I absolutely love this series. The characters are quirky and fun, and the desserts always sound tasty. Sadly, Winnie was down in the dumps from the start, but it somehow made the entire story drag along. Even though it was chugging along, it was still charming, and I enjoyed watching the characters interact with each other. It’s so much fun because I feel like I learn a little bit more about the cast of characters with each book even though I’ve been following them since day one. It keeps things fresh while remaining realistic.
It’ll be interesting to see how Winnie’s relationship with Jay’s daughter progresses from here. I understand her jealous response to her dad hitting the dating scene for the first time in her life, but she’s really getting on my last nerve. I’m glad that Winnie and Jay plan to try and get through her shenanigans together, but I have to say that it was a real delight when Winnie met one of her friends and they got to see that Winnie isn’t some vile person. I hope that she matures as the books progress. She may be a teenager, but she’s old enough to know that there’s a thin line between respectfully hating someone and just being vile herself.
All in all, I had fun reading this installment. I’m interested in seeing what mysteries Laura Bradford will cook up for the next book and where the characters will go from here. Winnie and company are just one big mostly happy family and I enjoy reading about their lives and adventures.
I absolutely love this series. The characters are quirky and fun, and the desserts always sound tasty. Sadly, Winnie was down in the dumps from the start, but it somehow made the entire story drag along. Even though it was chugging along, it was still charming, and I enjoyed watching the characters interact with each other. It’s so much fun because I feel like I learn a little bit more about the cast of characters with each book even though I’ve been following them since day one. It keeps things fresh while remaining realistic.
It’ll be interesting to see how Winnie’s relationship with Jay’s daughter progresses from here. I understand her jealous response to her dad hitting the dating scene for the first time in her life, but she’s really getting on my last nerve. I’m glad that Winnie and Jay plan to try and get through her shenanigans together, but I have to say that it was a real delight when Winnie met one of her friends and they got to see that Winnie isn’t some vile person. I hope that she matures as the books progress. She may be a teenager, but she’s old enough to know that there’s a thin line between respectfully hating someone and just being vile herself.
All in all, I had fun reading this installment. I’m interested in seeing what mysteries Laura Bradford will cook up for the next book and where the characters will go from here. Winnie and company are just one big mostly happy family and I enjoy reading about their lives and adventures.
August 30, 2018
This was such a fun take on the classic "locked room" murder mystery. There are five suspects and one of them has to be the killer but how could one be the killer without everyone being in on it? Add in the fact that none of the five suspects is in a particularly talkative mood and Winnie has quite the tangle of a mystery!
This was my first visit to Silver Lake Ohio and the Emergency Dessert Squad but it was a fun one! It took me a couple of pages to get who was who figured out but once I got that sorted I had no issues keeping track of all the whos, whats, and whys of the series. The concept of the Emergency Dessert Squad is so fun! I mean I can't think of anything better when I'm sick or stressed or just out of sorts than to have a personalized dessert delivered right to my door. This needs to be an option! Winnie and her friends are a lot of fun. I loved Bridget's investigating abilities and Renee and Mr. Nelson's humor. Winnie's boyfriend, Jay, is away for most of the book but I did like their relationship and I enjoyed Winnie's inner monologue about their relationship status. It felt very realistic.
There's a lot going on in this book and while the investigation isn't always front and center it's such an enjoyable read that it never felt like the pacing was off or that the plot was convoluted. It was something a day in the life of Winnie and her friends and now all of it was mystery focused.
This was an incredibly entertaining read filled with delicious sweets and all kinds of fantastic cozy style puns. I'm looking forward to going back and reading the previous 2 books in the series while I wait for book #4!
Review from I Wish I Lived in a Library (http://iwishilivedinalibrary.blogspot...
This was my first visit to Silver Lake Ohio and the Emergency Dessert Squad but it was a fun one! It took me a couple of pages to get who was who figured out but once I got that sorted I had no issues keeping track of all the whos, whats, and whys of the series. The concept of the Emergency Dessert Squad is so fun! I mean I can't think of anything better when I'm sick or stressed or just out of sorts than to have a personalized dessert delivered right to my door. This needs to be an option! Winnie and her friends are a lot of fun. I loved Bridget's investigating abilities and Renee and Mr. Nelson's humor. Winnie's boyfriend, Jay, is away for most of the book but I did like their relationship and I enjoyed Winnie's inner monologue about their relationship status. It felt very realistic.
There's a lot going on in this book and while the investigation isn't always front and center it's such an enjoyable read that it never felt like the pacing was off or that the plot was convoluted. It was something a day in the life of Winnie and her friends and now all of it was mystery focused.
This was an incredibly entertaining read filled with delicious sweets and all kinds of fantastic cozy style puns. I'm looking forward to going back and reading the previous 2 books in the series while I wait for book #4!
Review from I Wish I Lived in a Library (http://iwishilivedinalibrary.blogspot...
February 9, 2018
http://openbooksociety.com/article/di...
Dial M for Mousse
Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery #3
Author: Laura Bradford
ISBN13: 9780425281253
Author website: http://www.laurabradford.com/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Kayt
Synopsis:
Murder takes the cake in an irresistible Emergency Dessert Squad mystery from the national bestselling author of The Silence of the Flans.
The Emergency Dessert Squad business is booming, with owner and baker Winnie Johnson working overtime to satisfy the emergency cravings of Silver Lake, Ohio. Her latest order, a plate of motivational desserts for an artists’ retreat, is just what she needs to keep her mind off her own relationship woes.
But Winnie’s problems seem like trifles when she discovers the body of retreat owner Sally Dearfield mere inches away from five oh-so-eccentric and viable suspects. Now, this baking detective must uncover the inspiration behind Sally’s murder before another creative genius is iced.
Review:
Winnie Johnson is a fabulous protagonist! I love her and her friends. Now that her Emergency Dessert Squad business is taking off she is very busy. Silver Lake, Ohio has taken a liking to her baking and her emergency desserts. She is asked to deliver some very specific desserts to an artist retreat. The gang think up a special one for each talent the participants have. What fun to be in on the banter they have thinking up great names. I love that this series is not just the normal aged group of friends. Bridget and Mr. Nelson are the best. I do have one complaint and it is very selfish. How does Winnie not see just how wonderful Greg, aka Master Sergeant Hottie is?? Hey that is just me though.
After all the wonderful work Winnie and her assistant Renee do on the desserts, of course they stumble upon a body. Not sure if it is an accident or murder, Winnie knows she has to find the answers. Along the way she also is worried about her own love life, keeping her business running and trying to make friends with Lovey, the cat bequeathed to her that likes everyone but Winnie. And Renee seems to have become infatuated with one of the artists, who could possibly be a killer.
Author Laura Bradford has a way of writing her characters so they grab you and you want to be friends with them. They come alive on the pages. Their interactions are interesting, lively and always grab my attention. This is the third installment in the wonderful Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery series. Each book is better and better and the first one was great. No matter what Bradford writes I know I am going to love it. Dial M for Mousse is no exception. I loved it from start to finish. Even the talents of the artists was a hoot. I mean a Mime, lol. Her writing style just pulls the reader in and never lets go. The characters are believable and loveable. You cannot get much better than one of her books.
Even though this is the third installment, you can read it as a stand-alone, but I would read all of them just for the simple fact that they are wonderful. Winnie is the type of character that is real, warts and all (no I don’t think she has any, but you know). The mystery is well written and full of intrigue and a few red herrings to keep you guessing. I love the reveal and was not sure until I read it. The pace is perfect, the detail not overbearing (I have a problem with too much) and the story is everything you could hope for in a cozy. I only wish I could give more than 5 stars. Laura Bradford has written another stellar read.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Dial M for Mousse
Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery #3
Author: Laura Bradford
ISBN13: 9780425281253
Author website: http://www.laurabradford.com/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Kayt
Synopsis:
Murder takes the cake in an irresistible Emergency Dessert Squad mystery from the national bestselling author of The Silence of the Flans.
The Emergency Dessert Squad business is booming, with owner and baker Winnie Johnson working overtime to satisfy the emergency cravings of Silver Lake, Ohio. Her latest order, a plate of motivational desserts for an artists’ retreat, is just what she needs to keep her mind off her own relationship woes.
But Winnie’s problems seem like trifles when she discovers the body of retreat owner Sally Dearfield mere inches away from five oh-so-eccentric and viable suspects. Now, this baking detective must uncover the inspiration behind Sally’s murder before another creative genius is iced.
Review:
Winnie Johnson is a fabulous protagonist! I love her and her friends. Now that her Emergency Dessert Squad business is taking off she is very busy. Silver Lake, Ohio has taken a liking to her baking and her emergency desserts. She is asked to deliver some very specific desserts to an artist retreat. The gang think up a special one for each talent the participants have. What fun to be in on the banter they have thinking up great names. I love that this series is not just the normal aged group of friends. Bridget and Mr. Nelson are the best. I do have one complaint and it is very selfish. How does Winnie not see just how wonderful Greg, aka Master Sergeant Hottie is?? Hey that is just me though.
After all the wonderful work Winnie and her assistant Renee do on the desserts, of course they stumble upon a body. Not sure if it is an accident or murder, Winnie knows she has to find the answers. Along the way she also is worried about her own love life, keeping her business running and trying to make friends with Lovey, the cat bequeathed to her that likes everyone but Winnie. And Renee seems to have become infatuated with one of the artists, who could possibly be a killer.
Author Laura Bradford has a way of writing her characters so they grab you and you want to be friends with them. They come alive on the pages. Their interactions are interesting, lively and always grab my attention. This is the third installment in the wonderful Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery series. Each book is better and better and the first one was great. No matter what Bradford writes I know I am going to love it. Dial M for Mousse is no exception. I loved it from start to finish. Even the talents of the artists was a hoot. I mean a Mime, lol. Her writing style just pulls the reader in and never lets go. The characters are believable and loveable. You cannot get much better than one of her books.
Even though this is the third installment, you can read it as a stand-alone, but I would read all of them just for the simple fact that they are wonderful. Winnie is the type of character that is real, warts and all (no I don’t think she has any, but you know). The mystery is well written and full of intrigue and a few red herrings to keep you guessing. I love the reveal and was not sure until I read it. The pace is perfect, the detail not overbearing (I have a problem with too much) and the story is everything you could hope for in a cozy. I only wish I could give more than 5 stars. Laura Bradford has written another stellar read.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
February 16, 2018
Things have picked back up for Winnie after what happened in book two, though her love life is still a bit on the rocks.
Winnie gets a call from a lady who wants to surprise the group at an artist retreat, she wants five different desserts to go with the five different types that are at the retreat. I would list them but I have forgotten them, I know there is a writer, a mime and a magician, just can’t remember the other ones. 🙁
When her and her friend Rene deliver the deserts they get there and find the group standing over the dead body of the Sally Dearfield, the lady who ordered the desserts. They all swear they had nothing to do with it but the more Winnie thinks about it the more it bothers her as she remembers how they all gasped at the same time when Winnie and her friend came in so she thinks they did it on purpose for their benefit. Winnie just can’t stand it when there is a murder that involves her deserts so she starts snooping around. It seems good ole Sally seemed to have a lot of information on each of the retreaters and so it really could have been any of them if not a group effort.
Besides trying to solve a murder Winnie is fretting over what is happening with her and Jay. Caroline’s mother decided all of a sudden that she wants to see her daughter so Jay takes her to see her. He never seemed to have time to talk when he was gone and was always with his ex-wife making her think horrible things. Then when they do try and make a day of things when he gets back he brings Caroline and she tries to make things sound like Jay and her mother were getting back together which is not the truth. Winnie is feeling that maybe things won’t work since his daughter really doesn’t like her, but Jay isn’t giving up. Poor Winnie, I know she likes him but I think she would be better with “Master Sergeant Hottie” Greg. Don’t you love his nickname that everyone has giving him. He is really sweet too, but she just likes him as a friend, bummer.
I think my favorites in this series are still the two senior friends of Winnies. I have seen a trend it seems in putting feisty old folk in cozies and I like it…lol. Probably because they always remind me of my grandparents how have passed on.
Overall, this was another fun addition to the series and I really thought the mystery was pretty good although I figured it out. Not that the author didn’t try to fool me. 🙂
Though you could probably read this as a stand alone I think you would have a better understanding of what is going on if you started with book one. 🙂
Winnie gets a call from a lady who wants to surprise the group at an artist retreat, she wants five different desserts to go with the five different types that are at the retreat. I would list them but I have forgotten them, I know there is a writer, a mime and a magician, just can’t remember the other ones. 🙁
When her and her friend Rene deliver the deserts they get there and find the group standing over the dead body of the Sally Dearfield, the lady who ordered the desserts. They all swear they had nothing to do with it but the more Winnie thinks about it the more it bothers her as she remembers how they all gasped at the same time when Winnie and her friend came in so she thinks they did it on purpose for their benefit. Winnie just can’t stand it when there is a murder that involves her deserts so she starts snooping around. It seems good ole Sally seemed to have a lot of information on each of the retreaters and so it really could have been any of them if not a group effort.
Besides trying to solve a murder Winnie is fretting over what is happening with her and Jay. Caroline’s mother decided all of a sudden that she wants to see her daughter so Jay takes her to see her. He never seemed to have time to talk when he was gone and was always with his ex-wife making her think horrible things. Then when they do try and make a day of things when he gets back he brings Caroline and she tries to make things sound like Jay and her mother were getting back together which is not the truth. Winnie is feeling that maybe things won’t work since his daughter really doesn’t like her, but Jay isn’t giving up. Poor Winnie, I know she likes him but I think she would be better with “Master Sergeant Hottie” Greg. Don’t you love his nickname that everyone has giving him. He is really sweet too, but she just likes him as a friend, bummer.
I think my favorites in this series are still the two senior friends of Winnies. I have seen a trend it seems in putting feisty old folk in cozies and I like it…lol. Probably because they always remind me of my grandparents how have passed on.
Overall, this was another fun addition to the series and I really thought the mystery was pretty good although I figured it out. Not that the author didn’t try to fool me. 🙂
Though you could probably read this as a stand alone I think you would have a better understanding of what is going on if you started with book one. 🙂
January 13, 2018
Dial M for Mousse is the third book in Laura Bradford’s An Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery series. This is the first book I’ve read in this series; however, the author provided sufficient character background and I easily understood their backgrounds and relationships, and didn’t feel lost jumping in this far into the series. There’s a nice mix of age groups in this book, an intriguing mystery, humor, a touch of romance, and the importance of friendships is prevalent. The mystery was well plotted and has enough viable suspects, and twists and turns, to make it difficult to figure out who the killer was.
Winnie Johnson is the owner of the Emergency Dessert Squad in Silver Lake, Ohio. She loves running the Emergency Dessert Squad, creating delightful desserts for people, and coming up with clever and funny names for the desserts with her assistant and best friend, Renee, and her elderly neighbors and friends. Winnie and her inherited cat, Lovey, deliver her desserts in an old ambulance, with a gurney and emergency kit including an IV usually filled with frosting. Sally Dearfield, the owner of a recently opened artists’ retreat, orders Winnie’s decadent desserts for the five artists who are currently staying at Silver Lake Artists’ Retreat. Even though a meeting is being held, Sally instructed Winnie to leave the special desserts in the recipients’ cabins. As they are leaving, Winnie and Renee decide to stop at the main building and are shocked when they find Sally, dead on the floor, surrounded by the five artists. The death is ruled suspicious and Winnie and her trusty sidekicks decide to help the local authorities identify the murderer. Winnie’s boyfriend, Jay Morgan, and his teenage daughter, Caroline, are out of town, visiting the mother, DiDi Evans, who walked away from them eleven years ago to pursue a career as an actress. Caroline has made no secret of the fact that she doesn’t want Winnie in their lives and Winnie is trying to decide if she should end the relationship.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Winnie Johnson is the owner of the Emergency Dessert Squad in Silver Lake, Ohio. She loves running the Emergency Dessert Squad, creating delightful desserts for people, and coming up with clever and funny names for the desserts with her assistant and best friend, Renee, and her elderly neighbors and friends. Winnie and her inherited cat, Lovey, deliver her desserts in an old ambulance, with a gurney and emergency kit including an IV usually filled with frosting. Sally Dearfield, the owner of a recently opened artists’ retreat, orders Winnie’s decadent desserts for the five artists who are currently staying at Silver Lake Artists’ Retreat. Even though a meeting is being held, Sally instructed Winnie to leave the special desserts in the recipients’ cabins. As they are leaving, Winnie and Renee decide to stop at the main building and are shocked when they find Sally, dead on the floor, surrounded by the five artists. The death is ruled suspicious and Winnie and her trusty sidekicks decide to help the local authorities identify the murderer. Winnie’s boyfriend, Jay Morgan, and his teenage daughter, Caroline, are out of town, visiting the mother, DiDi Evans, who walked away from them eleven years ago to pursue a career as an actress. Caroline has made no secret of the fact that she doesn’t want Winnie in their lives and Winnie is trying to decide if she should end the relationship.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
January 16, 2018
DIAL M FOR MOUSSE, the third book in the Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery series by Laura Bradford, is just as adorably delightful as the very first book! The puns entertained me while the plot kept me speculating on ‘whodunnit’, and the characters warmed my heart. Protagonist, Winnie Johnson, is an extremely likeable young woman with a heart of gold. I so enjoy her close relationship with her elderly neighbors and how she is involved in their lives on a daily basis. They, in turn, are eager to help her out when she and her best friend, Renee, stumble across the body of the woman who hired them to provide desserts for five artists. Winnie’s business, Emergency Dessert Squad, is one of the cleverest business ideas I’ve come across. Winnie creates custom desserts and delivers them in a vintage ambulance that she inherited from an elderly neighbor (along with a cantankerous cat that does not like her new owner). What makes it even better are the super fun names Winnie creates for her desserts: Your Jokes Make Me Snicker-doodle Cookies; Apple Kootchy-Kootchy-Koo Kuchen; You’re A Peach Pie, to name a few.
Ms. Bradford packs the story with so many clever scenes such as Winnie having a “conversation” with a mime and gives such vivid descriptions that you feel like you’re living the moment. Winnie’s budding relationship with single dad, Jay, might be hitting a snag when his teenaged daughter tries to drive a wedge between them. Can Winnie find a way to win over both the surly teen and her cat while finding a killer? I devoured this book until I finished the very last page and eagerly look forward to reading more of Winnie’s story!
Winnie creates so many delightfully clever desserts and luckily for the reader, Ms. Bradford includes a couple recipes at the back of the book with fun, pun-y titles!
I was provided an advance copy with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Ms. Bradford packs the story with so many clever scenes such as Winnie having a “conversation” with a mime and gives such vivid descriptions that you feel like you’re living the moment. Winnie’s budding relationship with single dad, Jay, might be hitting a snag when his teenaged daughter tries to drive a wedge between them. Can Winnie find a way to win over both the surly teen and her cat while finding a killer? I devoured this book until I finished the very last page and eagerly look forward to reading more of Winnie’s story!
Winnie creates so many delightfully clever desserts and luckily for the reader, Ms. Bradford includes a couple recipes at the back of the book with fun, pun-y titles!
I was provided an advance copy with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 22, 2018
Winnie Johnson is thrilled that her business Emergency Dessert Squad is growing more successful each day even if her romance with Jay Morgan seems to have hit a bump in the road. Baking always provides a distraction so she is thrilled when Sally Dearfield calls to order five desserts for artists at a retreat. Winnie is less thrilled when she and best friend Renee stumble across Sally's body. Winnie soon finds out that Sally was murdered and that the five artists all had a reason to want her dead. Once again Winnie finds herself investigating a murder. Will finding Sally's killer be easier than figuring out what is going on with her relationship with Jay?
“Dial M for Mousse” is the nicely done third book in Laura Bradford's Emergency Dessert Squad cozy mystery series. I love the concept of this series - Winnie uses an ambulance to deliver her desserts - and the names she comes up with for desserts (for example Your Jokes Make Me Snickerdoodle cookies - there are a couple of recipes in the back of the book). I also love the relationship Winnie has with those she cares about – Renee, Mr. Nelson (who is always Mr. Nelson to Winnie), Bridget, Greg - even her cat Lovey (their relationship alone offers more than a few giggles). Even Winnie’s relationship with Jay and his teenage daughter adds to the book rather than detract from it (all too often relationships can get in the way of the mystery in a cozy mystery but not in this series). As for the mystery, I found it to be the weakest part of the book - not something I say often about a Laura Bradford mystery. Five suspects is just the right amount but I felt that only a couple of the suspects were well-developed while some were not developed at all and barely registered me. A shame really because trying to figure out who the killer is is part of the fun of reading a cozy mystery.
The mystery is a bit weak but the characters make “Dial M for Mousse” worth reading.
“Dial M for Mousse” is the nicely done third book in Laura Bradford's Emergency Dessert Squad cozy mystery series. I love the concept of this series - Winnie uses an ambulance to deliver her desserts - and the names she comes up with for desserts (for example Your Jokes Make Me Snickerdoodle cookies - there are a couple of recipes in the back of the book). I also love the relationship Winnie has with those she cares about – Renee, Mr. Nelson (who is always Mr. Nelson to Winnie), Bridget, Greg - even her cat Lovey (their relationship alone offers more than a few giggles). Even Winnie’s relationship with Jay and his teenage daughter adds to the book rather than detract from it (all too often relationships can get in the way of the mystery in a cozy mystery but not in this series). As for the mystery, I found it to be the weakest part of the book - not something I say often about a Laura Bradford mystery. Five suspects is just the right amount but I felt that only a couple of the suspects were well-developed while some were not developed at all and barely registered me. A shame really because trying to figure out who the killer is is part of the fun of reading a cozy mystery.
The mystery is a bit weak but the characters make “Dial M for Mousse” worth reading.
January 31, 2018
Winnie Johnson, owner of the Emergency Dessert Squad based in an Ambulance, is busy trying to increase her business base and also missing her boyfriend, Jay.
An emergency order comes in for the Artist retreat...five desserts that are to be made up for individuals attending. The order comes in from the organizer of the retreat. Everything goes smoothly until...the organizer is found dead at the feet of the attendees and no one seems overly concerned or shocked.
Winnie feels she must figure this mystery out. Her elderly neighbors and close friends add their perspective to the case, and Winnie's love life.
A gentle cozy murder mystery.
An emergency order comes in for the Artist retreat...five desserts that are to be made up for individuals attending. The order comes in from the organizer of the retreat. Everything goes smoothly until...the organizer is found dead at the feet of the attendees and no one seems overly concerned or shocked.
Winnie feels she must figure this mystery out. Her elderly neighbors and close friends add their perspective to the case, and Winnie's love life.
A gentle cozy murder mystery.
June 27, 2018
This is a very clever series with a terrific theme, characters that are like family and good people, a cat who is very involved with the humans, fun desserts, cops who are behind the scenes, and a mystery that is well-written. The suspects made this tale especially interesting.
March 10, 2020
This cozy mystery has outstanding supporting friends to the main character of Winnie Johnson. In this story, there is no reason for her to investigate a death except her desire for answers. The book was a quick easy read.
October 22, 2022
I really hope there are more of these books coming. I really enjoyed this series!
October 10, 2025
This one just didn't float my boat.
April 3, 2025
Print Book/Paperback [Carnegie Library]
Not my favorite of this series - I though the drama between Winnie and Jay was just to drawn out [even though I have been in the place Caroline is, my parent's would never, ever allowed that kind of shenanigans and it would have been nipped in the bud early on], there was a LOT of extraneous detail [did we REALLY need to know just how and when Winnie's phone would buzz with a call or message? ] that really bogged the book down for me and I DESPISE love triangles, even when they aren't really love triangle but are for one character. Ick.
I did like the mystery, but the reveal fell very, very flat for me.
Not sure I will read another one should she write it.
Not my favorite of this series - I though the drama between Winnie and Jay was just to drawn out [even though I have been in the place Caroline is, my parent's would never, ever allowed that kind of shenanigans and it would have been nipped in the bud early on], there was a LOT of extraneous detail [did we REALLY need to know just how and when Winnie's phone would buzz with a call or message? ] that really bogged the book down for me and I DESPISE love triangles, even when they aren't really love triangle but are for one character. Ick.
I did like the mystery, but the reveal fell very, very flat for me.
Not sure I will read another one should she write it.
April 30, 2020
Really cute book! I love the idea of the emergency desserts lmfao im sad that this was the only book libby has from this series though because I really liked it and I think it might be 5 stars if I got to read the first two!
January 9, 2018
Winnie Johnson's Emergency Dessert Squad business is growing by leaps and bounds every day. The business has a competitive and creative edge over traditional bakeries. A fact that has Sally Dearfield, the owner of an artists' retreat, soliciting Winnie for her decadent desserts. Upon delivery of the treats designed, named, and prepared individually for each artist, Winnie and Renee find themselves going to the main building. What they find is shocking and upsetting - Sally Dearfield is dead on the floor surrounded by each of the individual artists to whom they just hand delivered desserts, and the death is ruled suspicious. Winnie and her trusty sidekicks decide to "help" the local police identify the murderer before anyone else is murdered.
Throughout the novel we also get a glimpse into Winnie's complicated love life. As Winnie is trying to solve the mystery behind Sally's death, the threads of her relationship with Jay are woven within. He and his daughter are away and the circumstances make Winnie question everything she thought they had together. When he returns, Winnie isn't sure what to expect, and that has her tied up in knots.
One of the ideas behind Dial M for Mousse that I found interesting was that none of the suspects had anything to do with the main characters in the book. In most cozies I've read lately, the heroine, one of her family members, or some of her friends end up being suspects. I enjoyed the deviation from the same ole - same ole. Winnie's compassion, caring, and friendship with the elders in her neighborhood is a wonderful aspect to the Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery series.
The author did a great job keeping the suspect protected from identification by the readers. I really didn't have any idea which of the five artists it could have been. All of them had secrets that could have ignited to the point that killing Sally was their final option. Dial M for Mousse was fun, fast-paced, and enjoyable to read.
The characters are well-developed and the author continues the development throughout the book. Winnie's interactions with all of her friends is filled with nothing but kindness and compassion. Winnie's relationship status in the book isn't smooth and the author does a great job writing the issues realistically and without either character looking bad. She continues some world building, as well, as she continues to describe the growth of Winnie's Emergency Dessert Squad business. I recommend the entire series to all cozy mystery lovers.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC.
Throughout the novel we also get a glimpse into Winnie's complicated love life. As Winnie is trying to solve the mystery behind Sally's death, the threads of her relationship with Jay are woven within. He and his daughter are away and the circumstances make Winnie question everything she thought they had together. When he returns, Winnie isn't sure what to expect, and that has her tied up in knots.
One of the ideas behind Dial M for Mousse that I found interesting was that none of the suspects had anything to do with the main characters in the book. In most cozies I've read lately, the heroine, one of her family members, or some of her friends end up being suspects. I enjoyed the deviation from the same ole - same ole. Winnie's compassion, caring, and friendship with the elders in her neighborhood is a wonderful aspect to the Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery series.
The author did a great job keeping the suspect protected from identification by the readers. I really didn't have any idea which of the five artists it could have been. All of them had secrets that could have ignited to the point that killing Sally was their final option. Dial M for Mousse was fun, fast-paced, and enjoyable to read.
The characters are well-developed and the author continues the development throughout the book. Winnie's interactions with all of her friends is filled with nothing but kindness and compassion. Winnie's relationship status in the book isn't smooth and the author does a great job writing the issues realistically and without either character looking bad. She continues some world building, as well, as she continues to describe the growth of Winnie's Emergency Dessert Squad business. I recommend the entire series to all cozy mystery lovers.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC.
December 28, 2017
Dial M For Mousse
Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery, Book #3
Laura Bradford
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Murder takes the cake in an irresistible Emergency Dessert Squad mystery from the national bestselling author of The Silence of the Flans.
The Emergency Dessert Squad business is booming, with owner and baker Winnie Johnson working overtime to satisfy the emergency cravings of Silver Lake, Ohio. Her latest order, a plate of motivational desserts for an artists' retreat, is just what she needs to keep her mind off her own relationship woes.
But Winnie's problems seem like trifles when she discovers the body of retreat owner Sally Dearfield mere inches away from five oh-so-eccentric and viable suspects. Now, this baking detective must uncover the inspiration behind Sally's murder before another creative genius is iced.
RECIPES INCLUDED (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Winnie is a hard worker who loves her job, running the Emergency Dessert Squad. She loves to create desserts for people who are in need of a pick-me up, a celebration or just because. She also loves her naming sessions with her best friend Renee and all of her elderly neighbors and friends. Some of the dessert names that they come up with are so clever and funny.
The author is very talented in her character development and in her descriptive writing. Through much of the book I felt like I was right there, watching all of the action taking place and listening in on conversations. The writing style flows smoothly,the pace moves along at a great speed and the book is an easy read.
The mystery was well plotted and kept me guessing until the end. With enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through, it was a mystery not easily solved.
I would recommend this book and series to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy. The premise of the book is unique, the characters are lovable and the mystery is first rate. What’s not to like?
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Emergency Dessert Squad Mystery, Book #3
Laura Bradford
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Murder takes the cake in an irresistible Emergency Dessert Squad mystery from the national bestselling author of The Silence of the Flans.
The Emergency Dessert Squad business is booming, with owner and baker Winnie Johnson working overtime to satisfy the emergency cravings of Silver Lake, Ohio. Her latest order, a plate of motivational desserts for an artists' retreat, is just what she needs to keep her mind off her own relationship woes.
But Winnie's problems seem like trifles when she discovers the body of retreat owner Sally Dearfield mere inches away from five oh-so-eccentric and viable suspects. Now, this baking detective must uncover the inspiration behind Sally's murder before another creative genius is iced.
RECIPES INCLUDED (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Winnie is a hard worker who loves her job, running the Emergency Dessert Squad. She loves to create desserts for people who are in need of a pick-me up, a celebration or just because. She also loves her naming sessions with her best friend Renee and all of her elderly neighbors and friends. Some of the dessert names that they come up with are so clever and funny.
The author is very talented in her character development and in her descriptive writing. Through much of the book I felt like I was right there, watching all of the action taking place and listening in on conversations. The writing style flows smoothly,the pace moves along at a great speed and the book is an easy read.
The mystery was well plotted and kept me guessing until the end. With enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through, it was a mystery not easily solved.
I would recommend this book and series to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy. The premise of the book is unique, the characters are lovable and the mystery is first rate. What’s not to like?
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
December 30, 2017
In this third installment of one of my favorite cozy series, the mystery-- which is a good one-- often takes a back seat to Winnie's various relationship woes. There's a teenage girl who stubbornly insists on being the only one who's happy, and then there are Winnie's two elderly friends who take turns getting their emotional noses out of joint. The highlight of all this angst is that Winnie gets to say (and to hear) words that each and every one of us on this planet needs. One of the things that makes Winnie such a strong character is her big heart and her love for her friends, and that's the main focus of Dial M for Mousse.
Speaking of Winnie's friends, I can see some readers being upset with the character of Mr. Nelson, a man in his late seventies who loves the sight of a woman's cleavage. He seldom misses the weather report because of the statuesque weather girl, and he has various prime viewing spots on his porch and in his apartment so that he can indulge his hobby. Having had my own cleavage stared at ever since I had one, I have to admit that this can be a tiny bit tiresome, but never once is Mr. Nelson any sort of threat. The man keeps his hands to himself, and he never makes an inappropriate comment. In fact, he'd be the first person to take his cane to someone who did. Mr. Nelson is definitely one of Winnie's most beloved friends, and I enjoy seeing what he gets up to in each book.
Now...if only the focus had remained on the mystery more! I really enjoyed deducing why the woman was killed and which one of the five did the deed. Not only that, but there's an added gem in each of the Emergency Dessert Squad mysteries: the names Winnie gives her delectable confections. Those names alone can be worth the price of admission, and I can't wait for the next book!
Speaking of Winnie's friends, I can see some readers being upset with the character of Mr. Nelson, a man in his late seventies who loves the sight of a woman's cleavage. He seldom misses the weather report because of the statuesque weather girl, and he has various prime viewing spots on his porch and in his apartment so that he can indulge his hobby. Having had my own cleavage stared at ever since I had one, I have to admit that this can be a tiny bit tiresome, but never once is Mr. Nelson any sort of threat. The man keeps his hands to himself, and he never makes an inappropriate comment. In fact, he'd be the first person to take his cane to someone who did. Mr. Nelson is definitely one of Winnie's most beloved friends, and I enjoy seeing what he gets up to in each book.
Now...if only the focus had remained on the mystery more! I really enjoyed deducing why the woman was killed and which one of the five did the deed. Not only that, but there's an added gem in each of the Emergency Dessert Squad mysteries: the names Winnie gives her delectable confections. Those names alone can be worth the price of admission, and I can't wait for the next book!
February 7, 2018
Princess Fuzzypants here:
Winnie Johnson is a whiz. She can make the most drool worthy desserts and charm every senior citizen in sight. Her best friend and assistant Renee and her son adore her as do her neighbours and the local EMT guy.
Sadly there are two creatures who seem immune to her talents: the cat, Lovey, whom she inherited with the ambulance she now uses to deliver rescue cakes and the daughter of her boyfriend who is anything but subtle in her dislike of Winnie. Lovey, by the way, is a cuddle kitty to everyone but Winnie. She hisses at Winnie. Winnie wishes the daughter would only hiss at her.
Will she be able to curry favour with those two while not losing the affection of her friends? Will she be able to build her business while solving the murder of one of her customers who turned out to be not the nicest of ladies? And will she be able to have it all with her boyfriend or will the daughter from hell destroy all chances of happiness.
It took me a couple of chapters to warm up to the characters but once I did, I enjoyed both the mystery. There were plenty of red herrings as well as “hams” as she looked at the interconnecting histories of the victim and the entertainers who were the suspects. My biggest problem with all these cozies about people who make the most wonderful concoctions is Momma says if she ate all the good stuff, she would be the size of a house! MOL.
I give it four purrs and two paws up
Winnie Johnson is a whiz. She can make the most drool worthy desserts and charm every senior citizen in sight. Her best friend and assistant Renee and her son adore her as do her neighbours and the local EMT guy.
Sadly there are two creatures who seem immune to her talents: the cat, Lovey, whom she inherited with the ambulance she now uses to deliver rescue cakes and the daughter of her boyfriend who is anything but subtle in her dislike of Winnie. Lovey, by the way, is a cuddle kitty to everyone but Winnie. She hisses at Winnie. Winnie wishes the daughter would only hiss at her.
Will she be able to curry favour with those two while not losing the affection of her friends? Will she be able to build her business while solving the murder of one of her customers who turned out to be not the nicest of ladies? And will she be able to have it all with her boyfriend or will the daughter from hell destroy all chances of happiness.
It took me a couple of chapters to warm up to the characters but once I did, I enjoyed both the mystery. There were plenty of red herrings as well as “hams” as she looked at the interconnecting histories of the victim and the entertainers who were the suspects. My biggest problem with all these cozies about people who make the most wonderful concoctions is Momma says if she ate all the good stuff, she would be the size of a house! MOL.
I give it four purrs and two paws up
August 7, 2018
While I enjoyed the first book in this series, the second book and now this one have really disappointed me. The idea for the Emergency Dessert Squad was such a unique idea. I'm sad that this series just isn't working out for me. I don't think I will continue with this series if there are any future books coming.
I think there has become a really strong focus on the romance/relationship building with Jay in these last two books that it is taking away from the mystery aspect. The death scene in this book just really had me confused. Someone is dead on the floor and the others are just standing around? I wish more sleuthing was done during this story. That is one of my favorite parts of a cozy mystery. The sleuthing just seems to take a back seat to the romance and love triangle in this book.
I did still enjoy the aspect of the Emergency Dessert Squad and watching Winnie come up with the names for the desserts. They all sound amazing and I enjoyed looking over the recipes at the back of the book. I'm going to try one of them sometime. I also find Lovey to be amusing, still. His constant hissing at Winnie adds a little bit of humor to the story.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I think there has become a really strong focus on the romance/relationship building with Jay in these last two books that it is taking away from the mystery aspect. The death scene in this book just really had me confused. Someone is dead on the floor and the others are just standing around? I wish more sleuthing was done during this story. That is one of my favorite parts of a cozy mystery. The sleuthing just seems to take a back seat to the romance and love triangle in this book.
I did still enjoy the aspect of the Emergency Dessert Squad and watching Winnie come up with the names for the desserts. They all sound amazing and I enjoyed looking over the recipes at the back of the book. I'm going to try one of them sometime. I also find Lovey to be amusing, still. His constant hissing at Winnie adds a little bit of humor to the story.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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