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Farmer's Daughter Mystery #3
Bought the Farm
In the third Farmer's Daughter Mystery from the national bestselling author of Sowed to Death, finding a dead body in her own backyard lands blogger and farmer Shelby McDonald in one trough spot...
Wedding preparations are in full swing at Love Blossom Farm as food-and-lifestyle blogger Shelby McDonald transforms the property for her friend Kelly's down-home country-style reception. But when the lead singer of the wedding band turns up dead--drowned in a trough full of rainwater and strung up like a scarecrow--the police round themselves up a barnful of suspects.
It seems that Travis sowed the seeds of discord wherever he went, and when it becomes clear that everyone from the groom to Shelby's own staff has motive, tracking down Travis' killer is going to be more difficult than finding a needle in a haystack. As Shelby finds herself drawn deeper into the investigation, she'll have to move quickly before the killer decides to put her out to pasture...
INCLUDES DELICIOUS RECIPES
Wedding preparations are in full swing at Love Blossom Farm as food-and-lifestyle blogger Shelby McDonald transforms the property for her friend Kelly's down-home country-style reception. But when the lead singer of the wedding band turns up dead--drowned in a trough full of rainwater and strung up like a scarecrow--the police round themselves up a barnful of suspects.
It seems that Travis sowed the seeds of discord wherever he went, and when it becomes clear that everyone from the groom to Shelby's own staff has motive, tracking down Travis' killer is going to be more difficult than finding a needle in a haystack. As Shelby finds herself drawn deeper into the investigation, she'll have to move quickly before the killer decides to put her out to pasture...
INCLUDES DELICIOUS RECIPES
293 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 5, 2018
22 people are currently reading
251 people want to read
About the author
Peg Cochran
31 books399 followersMystery writing lets Peg indulge her curiosity under the guise of “work” (aka research). She put pen to paper at age seven when she wrote plays and forced her cousins to perform them at Christmas dinner. She switched to mysteries when she discovered the perfect hiding place for a body down the street from her house.
When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading, cooking, spoiling her granddaughter and checking her books' stats on Amazon.
A former Jersey girl, Peg now resides in Michigan. She is the author of the Open Book Series (written as Margaret Loudon), the Murder, She Reported series, the Cranberry Cove Series, the Farmer’s Daughter series, the Gourmet De-Lite series, the Lucille series, and the Sweet Nothings Lingerie series (written as Meg London.)
When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading, cooking, spoiling her granddaughter and checking her books' stats on Amazon.
A former Jersey girl, Peg now resides in Michigan. She is the author of the Open Book Series (written as Margaret Loudon), the Murder, She Reported series, the Cranberry Cove Series, the Farmer’s Daughter series, the Gourmet De-Lite series, the Lucille series, and the Sweet Nothings Lingerie series (written as Meg London.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
June 22, 2018
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Love is in the air at Love Blossom Farm. Shelby McDonald is hosting her friends, Seth and Kelly’s barn wedding. The mother of the groom wanted an entirely different venue, but Shelby’s barn does look really pretty. The bride’s cousin and his band are on hand for the music and food is being barbecued for the dinner. After the wedding and the reception has ended and everything is back to “normal”, Shelby makes a frightening discovery. The lead singer from the band strung up like a scarecrow. Dead, yes, he is very dead, but Shelby has no idea what could have killed him. There is no blood, so obvious cause. Could one of her guests have killed him? or someone in the bridal party? or someone Shelby had hired? Maybe it was another member of the band? Everyone at the wedding is a suspect. Detective Frank McDonald may need Shelby’s help to solve this one. At least that is what she thinks.
These characters are very down to earth. Shelby is a food and lifestyle blogger who has a huge garden. She sells some of her harvests at Jake’s store. She posts recipes and gardening tips on her blog. I love that her blog posts are part of the book.
She is also raising 2 children, Billy and Amelia. Amelia is dealing with a bully issue at school. A current and relevant topic and I appreciated the insight shown by the author in a fictional way that really resonates. Shelby is also worried about Bert who is not feeling well. Also, a member of the church has asked her to check out the pastor’s girlfriend. The member is sure she has a shady past.
The murder mystery itself is full of twists and turns and even includes another murder that changes not only Shelby’s thinking but this reader’s as well. The singer’s past is pretty dark and his actions could lead to a few people that would have the motive to kill. So many suspects are holding things back or outright lying. That makes the case hard to solve. There are some suspenseful moments as the killer is revealed. I may have solved it just a little bit before.
The setting in Michigan, Love Blossom Farm sounds like a perfect place. A great place to raise children. A place I would have loved to live when our family was just starting out. I think leasing out the barn for weddings is a great source for extra income. If no one else gets murdered, of course.
I do enjoy the way Ms. Cochran writes. Her “Hello Reader” blog posts and tidbits make me feel right at home. Her descriptive style brings everything into focus. She builds up her characters lives in a very realistic way. I found myself invested in what was happening with all the characters. Shelby does make a decision about her romantic life. It was hard, but I feel she made the right decision.
The entire story is very entertaining. A great installment to this series. I hope we get to visit Love Blossom Farm again soon.
Love is in the air at Love Blossom Farm. Shelby McDonald is hosting her friends, Seth and Kelly’s barn wedding. The mother of the groom wanted an entirely different venue, but Shelby’s barn does look really pretty. The bride’s cousin and his band are on hand for the music and food is being barbecued for the dinner. After the wedding and the reception has ended and everything is back to “normal”, Shelby makes a frightening discovery. The lead singer from the band strung up like a scarecrow. Dead, yes, he is very dead, but Shelby has no idea what could have killed him. There is no blood, so obvious cause. Could one of her guests have killed him? or someone in the bridal party? or someone Shelby had hired? Maybe it was another member of the band? Everyone at the wedding is a suspect. Detective Frank McDonald may need Shelby’s help to solve this one. At least that is what she thinks.
These characters are very down to earth. Shelby is a food and lifestyle blogger who has a huge garden. She sells some of her harvests at Jake’s store. She posts recipes and gardening tips on her blog. I love that her blog posts are part of the book.
She is also raising 2 children, Billy and Amelia. Amelia is dealing with a bully issue at school. A current and relevant topic and I appreciated the insight shown by the author in a fictional way that really resonates. Shelby is also worried about Bert who is not feeling well. Also, a member of the church has asked her to check out the pastor’s girlfriend. The member is sure she has a shady past.
The murder mystery itself is full of twists and turns and even includes another murder that changes not only Shelby’s thinking but this reader’s as well. The singer’s past is pretty dark and his actions could lead to a few people that would have the motive to kill. So many suspects are holding things back or outright lying. That makes the case hard to solve. There are some suspenseful moments as the killer is revealed. I may have solved it just a little bit before.
The setting in Michigan, Love Blossom Farm sounds like a perfect place. A great place to raise children. A place I would have loved to live when our family was just starting out. I think leasing out the barn for weddings is a great source for extra income. If no one else gets murdered, of course.
I do enjoy the way Ms. Cochran writes. Her “Hello Reader” blog posts and tidbits make me feel right at home. Her descriptive style brings everything into focus. She builds up her characters lives in a very realistic way. I found myself invested in what was happening with all the characters. Shelby does make a decision about her romantic life. It was hard, but I feel she made the right decision.
The entire story is very entertaining. A great installment to this series. I hope we get to visit Love Blossom Farm again soon.
June 28, 2018
Once again, another great book by author Peg Cochran. I have read every series she has written, and the Farmer’s Daughters Mysteries are no exception.
When I finally found myself with enough free time to read uninterrupted, I went straight to my copy of BOUGHT THE FARM. Once again, page one pulled me in, and I was hooked for the rest of the book.
Love Blossom Farms is busier than ever as protagonist, Shelby McDonald preps up the farm for her friend’s wedding reception. But of course, this is a murder mystery. Nothing is going to happen smoothly. So it will be no surprise to the reader that things hit a sour note with the wedding singer is found dead.
I had the best time reading BOUGHT THE FARM. Ms. Cochran’s descriptions are so perfect that I could see everything in detail as I read. Honestly, I could even smell the aromas of the farm. Good and bad. 😉
As for the murder, there were plenty of suspects to keep me speculating. Each new theory more intriguing and plausible than the one before. I was thrilled when I knew I had finally figured it out! And then I read the reveal and I was so wrong. Ha, nothing new for me. LOL
BOUGHT THE FARM is a perfect addition to this already wonderful series.
Oh, don’t forget to check out the amazing recipes included!
When I finally found myself with enough free time to read uninterrupted, I went straight to my copy of BOUGHT THE FARM. Once again, page one pulled me in, and I was hooked for the rest of the book.
Love Blossom Farms is busier than ever as protagonist, Shelby McDonald preps up the farm for her friend’s wedding reception. But of course, this is a murder mystery. Nothing is going to happen smoothly. So it will be no surprise to the reader that things hit a sour note with the wedding singer is found dead.
I had the best time reading BOUGHT THE FARM. Ms. Cochran’s descriptions are so perfect that I could see everything in detail as I read. Honestly, I could even smell the aromas of the farm. Good and bad. 😉
As for the murder, there were plenty of suspects to keep me speculating. Each new theory more intriguing and plausible than the one before. I was thrilled when I knew I had finally figured it out! And then I read the reveal and I was so wrong. Ha, nothing new for me. LOL
BOUGHT THE FARM is a perfect addition to this already wonderful series.
Oh, don’t forget to check out the amazing recipes included!
July 7, 2018
Synopsis:
In the third Farmer's Daughter Mystery from the national bestselling author of Sowed to Death, finding a dead body in her own backyard lands blogger and farmer Shelby McDonald in one trough spot...
Wedding preparations are in full swing at Love Blossom Farm as food-and-lifestyle blogger Shelby McDonald transforms the property for her friend Kelly's down-home country-style reception. But when the lead singer of the wedding band turns up dead--drowned in a trough full of rainwater and strung up like a scarecrow--the police round themselves up a barnful of suspects.
It seems that Travis sowed the seeds of discord wherever he went, and when it becomes clear that everyone from the groom to Shelby's own staff has motive, tracking down Travis' killer is going to be more difficult than finding a needle in a haystack. As Shelby finds herself drawn deeper into the investigation, she'll have to move quickly before the killer decides to put her out to pasture...
INCLUDES DELICIOUS RECIPES (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I like the fact that Shelby is a mother of two children, and unfortunately she is raising them by herself since her husband died. Having the protagonist be a mom makes this book more unique than many of the cozies I read. I feel she is more relatable, having the same troubles and responsibilities of a lot of the readers. She works hard to run the farm by herself and sometimes I feel sorry for her. But she does not feel sorry for herself, she just keeps doing the things that she needs to do. So when a dead body turns up on her farm, she feels compelled to find out who the culprit is, even if her plate is already full. I really like Bert, who helps Shelby on the farm as much as she can. And it looks like maybe Shelby has made up her mind about her three potential beaus, and she knows who she wants to choose.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book I felt like I was right there, watching all the farm activities and Shelby performing her farm chores. I think maybe too much description was spent on her cooking and working in her garden, I felt like it made the book drag a little in spots. That is only my opinion and others may not agree with me. I really enjoyed the blog posts at the beginning of each chapter, I thought that added another level to the book. They were interesting and gave the reader tidbits of information that I found helpful.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book was an easy read. I liked that the author included the social of issue of bullying in this book. That is a very serious social problem and I thought that she handled it well with some insight and ideas for fighting bullying.
The mystery was was well plotted and it was not easy to solve. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through and I found myself getting nervous towards the end of the book, before I knew who the culprit was. That makes for a great mystery.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I have read all three of the books in this series and I have enjoyed them all.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Berkley Publishing Group, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
In the third Farmer's Daughter Mystery from the national bestselling author of Sowed to Death, finding a dead body in her own backyard lands blogger and farmer Shelby McDonald in one trough spot...
Wedding preparations are in full swing at Love Blossom Farm as food-and-lifestyle blogger Shelby McDonald transforms the property for her friend Kelly's down-home country-style reception. But when the lead singer of the wedding band turns up dead--drowned in a trough full of rainwater and strung up like a scarecrow--the police round themselves up a barnful of suspects.
It seems that Travis sowed the seeds of discord wherever he went, and when it becomes clear that everyone from the groom to Shelby's own staff has motive, tracking down Travis' killer is going to be more difficult than finding a needle in a haystack. As Shelby finds herself drawn deeper into the investigation, she'll have to move quickly before the killer decides to put her out to pasture...
INCLUDES DELICIOUS RECIPES (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I like the fact that Shelby is a mother of two children, and unfortunately she is raising them by herself since her husband died. Having the protagonist be a mom makes this book more unique than many of the cozies I read. I feel she is more relatable, having the same troubles and responsibilities of a lot of the readers. She works hard to run the farm by herself and sometimes I feel sorry for her. But she does not feel sorry for herself, she just keeps doing the things that she needs to do. So when a dead body turns up on her farm, she feels compelled to find out who the culprit is, even if her plate is already full. I really like Bert, who helps Shelby on the farm as much as she can. And it looks like maybe Shelby has made up her mind about her three potential beaus, and she knows who she wants to choose.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book I felt like I was right there, watching all the farm activities and Shelby performing her farm chores. I think maybe too much description was spent on her cooking and working in her garden, I felt like it made the book drag a little in spots. That is only my opinion and others may not agree with me. I really enjoyed the blog posts at the beginning of each chapter, I thought that added another level to the book. They were interesting and gave the reader tidbits of information that I found helpful.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book was an easy read. I liked that the author included the social of issue of bullying in this book. That is a very serious social problem and I thought that she handled it well with some insight and ideas for fighting bullying.
The mystery was was well plotted and it was not easy to solve. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through and I found myself getting nervous towards the end of the book, before I knew who the culprit was. That makes for a great mystery.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I have read all three of the books in this series and I have enjoyed them all.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Berkley Publishing Group, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
June 11, 2018
Bought the Farm by Peg Cochran is the third novel in A Farmer’s Daughter Mystery series. Shelby McDonald has been busy getting Love Blossom Farm ready for Kelly Thacker and Seth Gregson wedding. Kelly has even arranged a special surprise for Seth. The wedding is lovely, but Seth is not thrilled with his surprise of Travis Cooper and his band. After the festivities are over, Shelby and Bert notice that one guest is still hanging around. Travis has been murdered and strung up on a post to resemble a scarecrow. Seth, the band along with the wedding guests are all suspects in the singer’s death. Detective Frank McDonald has his work cut out for him this time. Of course, Kelly cannot help but do some digging especially with Seth being on the suspect list. The killer, however, is displeased with her sleuthing and leaves her a threatening blog comment. Join Shelby as she weeds through the suspects to expose the evil doer in Bought the Farm.
Bought the Farm is an engaging cozy mystery. It is well-written and has a steady pace throughout. There is a good flow and smooth transitions. Bought the Farm has great characters and a beautiful setting of Love Blossom Farm in Lovett, Michigan. I especially liked Shelby’s blog entries at the beginning of each chapter. They were informative and useful. It was interesting to learn the history behind some wedding traditions. The mystery was well-crafted with multiple suspects and misdirection. The author provided good clues to aid readers in resolving the crime. While Bought the Farm is the third book in the series, it can be read alone. Everything a reader needs to know about Shelby is included. Chickens, planting seeds, gathering herbs, taking care of the kids and the dogs, spending time with friends, dating, creating new recipes, cooking and Shelby working on her blog are some of the cozy moments in Bought the Farm. I like the world that Peg Cochran has created for A Farmer’s Daughter Mystery series. Shelby’s daughter, Amelia stands up for a girl in her class who is being bullied and comes up with an anti-bullying campaign. I appreciate how the author addressed the situation and her suggestions for dealing with bullies. I hope that the children will start doing chores in future books to help out Shelby (she needs assistance with work around the house and farm). My rating for Bought the Farm is 4 out of 5 stars. There are recipes at the end of the book.
Bought the Farm is an engaging cozy mystery. It is well-written and has a steady pace throughout. There is a good flow and smooth transitions. Bought the Farm has great characters and a beautiful setting of Love Blossom Farm in Lovett, Michigan. I especially liked Shelby’s blog entries at the beginning of each chapter. They were informative and useful. It was interesting to learn the history behind some wedding traditions. The mystery was well-crafted with multiple suspects and misdirection. The author provided good clues to aid readers in resolving the crime. While Bought the Farm is the third book in the series, it can be read alone. Everything a reader needs to know about Shelby is included. Chickens, planting seeds, gathering herbs, taking care of the kids and the dogs, spending time with friends, dating, creating new recipes, cooking and Shelby working on her blog are some of the cozy moments in Bought the Farm. I like the world that Peg Cochran has created for A Farmer’s Daughter Mystery series. Shelby’s daughter, Amelia stands up for a girl in her class who is being bullied and comes up with an anti-bullying campaign. I appreciate how the author addressed the situation and her suggestions for dealing with bullies. I hope that the children will start doing chores in future books to help out Shelby (she needs assistance with work around the house and farm). My rating for Bought the Farm is 4 out of 5 stars. There are recipes at the end of the book.
June 2, 2018
Bought The Farm is the third book in The Farmer’s Daughter Mystery series.
This is busy times for Shelby at her Love Blossom Farm, not only is she busy with the vegetables and herbs she grows but her best friend and vet, Kelly Thacker and her husband-to-be Seth Gregson are getting married at the farm. The reception immediately following the ceremony is in full swing. The guests are enjoying the catered food and the music provided by a band featuring singer, Travis Cooper. The happy event makes a downward spiral when the lifeless body of Travis is found face down in a water trough in a nearby field.
Travis is a local boy who made a name for himself by winning on America Can Sing. Travis was supposed to appear with his brother, Jax, but an auto driven by Travis crashed and Jax was hospitalized and couldn’t make the show. In addition to Jax, there are several other people that would want to seek revenge on Travis. To mention just a couple, Jax’s wife, Jessie was once engaged to Travis and was left at the altar. Cody, a member of the band and is also responsible for setting up the equipment without and Travis, for the most part, treats him as a gofer. Also Seth, comes under suspicion when it is learned that a person was seen near where the body was found with a hat similar to the one Seth had been wearing on his arrival.
As in previous books, there are excerpts from Shelby’s blog at the start of each chapter. I find that they provide interesting and useful information. The story is well-plotted and told with an interesting cast of well-developed and believable characters. The book kept me guessing until the end.
Delicious sounding recipes are also included with the book.
I will definitely be watching for the next book in this wonderful series.
This is busy times for Shelby at her Love Blossom Farm, not only is she busy with the vegetables and herbs she grows but her best friend and vet, Kelly Thacker and her husband-to-be Seth Gregson are getting married at the farm. The reception immediately following the ceremony is in full swing. The guests are enjoying the catered food and the music provided by a band featuring singer, Travis Cooper. The happy event makes a downward spiral when the lifeless body of Travis is found face down in a water trough in a nearby field.
Travis is a local boy who made a name for himself by winning on America Can Sing. Travis was supposed to appear with his brother, Jax, but an auto driven by Travis crashed and Jax was hospitalized and couldn’t make the show. In addition to Jax, there are several other people that would want to seek revenge on Travis. To mention just a couple, Jax’s wife, Jessie was once engaged to Travis and was left at the altar. Cody, a member of the band and is also responsible for setting up the equipment without and Travis, for the most part, treats him as a gofer. Also Seth, comes under suspicion when it is learned that a person was seen near where the body was found with a hat similar to the one Seth had been wearing on his arrival.
As in previous books, there are excerpts from Shelby’s blog at the start of each chapter. I find that they provide interesting and useful information. The story is well-plotted and told with an interesting cast of well-developed and believable characters. The book kept me guessing until the end.
Delicious sounding recipes are also included with the book.
I will definitely be watching for the next book in this wonderful series.
July 5, 2018
Blogger Shelby transforms her farm into a wedding site for her friend Kelly. The lead singer of the band is found dead. Shelby finds that he had lots of secrets and had made the band, her staff and some of the town mad so she has to find out who did to protect herself and her children. An interesting story about someone trying to make a living selling homegrown product.
June 26, 2018
http://openbooksociety.com/article/bo...
Bought the Farm
A Farmer’s Daughter Mystery, Book #3
By Peg Cochran
ISBN#9780425282045
Author’s website: Pegcochran.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
Wedding preparations are in full swing at Love Blossom Farm as food-and-lifestyle blogger Shelby McDonald transforms the property for her friend Kelly’s down-home country-style reception. But when the lead singer of the wedding band turns up dead–drowned in a trough full of rainwater and strung up like a scarecrow–the police round themselves up a barnful of suspects.
It seems that Travis sowed the seeds of discord wherever he went, and when it becomes clear that everyone from the groom to Shelby’s own staff has motive, tracking down Travis’ killer is going to be more difficult than finding a needle in a haystack. As Shelby finds herself drawn deeper into the investigation, she’ll have to move quickly before the killer decides to put her out to pasture.
Review:
With a unique setting and lots of down-home atmosphere and tidbits, Bought the Farm is sure to please cozy mystery readers looking for a salt of the earth protagonist and all-American backdrop.
In this third installment in the Farmer’s Daughter Mystery Series, we find the farmer and widow Shelby McDonald busy as always. In addition to the unfailingly demanding life on the farm, Shelby helps execute her best friend’s wedding in the barn. Everything is perfect until the lead singer of the wedding band, local boy turned star, is found murdered before the festivities are even over. In an effort to clear the groom’s name, Shelby uncovers a bushel of suspects and puts herself in danger.
I like this series, and this installment is enjoyable but a bit slow. There is a great deal of emphasis placed on the minutiae of running a farm (it seems like Shelby is weeding in every other scene or making breakfast), and this can be tedious and make the pace drag a bit. Shelby seems like a really down to earth person, but when she needlessly (stupidly) puts herself in danger, I got so angry with her that I almost threw the book across the room. I understand that what she does is for a dramatic climax, but…ugh. She does a fine job of investigating the suspects and uncovering their motives, but then it feels like she does not know what to do with that information to solve Travis’s murder. She takes a long time to put the pieces together, much longer than this reader.
Like so many cozy mystery readers, I keep coming back to books in series because of the characters, and despite my frustrations with Shelby, the recurring characters really are delightful, especially Shelby’s mother figure and friend Bert. The characters central to this mystery, mostly the band, are lackluster. The mystery itself is interesting, and the suspects do all have believable motives. There are enough clues along the way for readers to figure it all out before Shelby does. There is also the dreaded love triangle though I hope Shelby has made her choice, and we can be done with it.
I like Bought the Farm. I just don’t love it. I will definitely continue reading Shelby’s adventures.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Bought the Farm
A Farmer’s Daughter Mystery, Book #3
By Peg Cochran
ISBN#9780425282045
Author’s website: Pegcochran.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
Wedding preparations are in full swing at Love Blossom Farm as food-and-lifestyle blogger Shelby McDonald transforms the property for her friend Kelly’s down-home country-style reception. But when the lead singer of the wedding band turns up dead–drowned in a trough full of rainwater and strung up like a scarecrow–the police round themselves up a barnful of suspects.
It seems that Travis sowed the seeds of discord wherever he went, and when it becomes clear that everyone from the groom to Shelby’s own staff has motive, tracking down Travis’ killer is going to be more difficult than finding a needle in a haystack. As Shelby finds herself drawn deeper into the investigation, she’ll have to move quickly before the killer decides to put her out to pasture.
Review:
With a unique setting and lots of down-home atmosphere and tidbits, Bought the Farm is sure to please cozy mystery readers looking for a salt of the earth protagonist and all-American backdrop.
In this third installment in the Farmer’s Daughter Mystery Series, we find the farmer and widow Shelby McDonald busy as always. In addition to the unfailingly demanding life on the farm, Shelby helps execute her best friend’s wedding in the barn. Everything is perfect until the lead singer of the wedding band, local boy turned star, is found murdered before the festivities are even over. In an effort to clear the groom’s name, Shelby uncovers a bushel of suspects and puts herself in danger.
I like this series, and this installment is enjoyable but a bit slow. There is a great deal of emphasis placed on the minutiae of running a farm (it seems like Shelby is weeding in every other scene or making breakfast), and this can be tedious and make the pace drag a bit. Shelby seems like a really down to earth person, but when she needlessly (stupidly) puts herself in danger, I got so angry with her that I almost threw the book across the room. I understand that what she does is for a dramatic climax, but…ugh. She does a fine job of investigating the suspects and uncovering their motives, but then it feels like she does not know what to do with that information to solve Travis’s murder. She takes a long time to put the pieces together, much longer than this reader.
Like so many cozy mystery readers, I keep coming back to books in series because of the characters, and despite my frustrations with Shelby, the recurring characters really are delightful, especially Shelby’s mother figure and friend Bert. The characters central to this mystery, mostly the band, are lackluster. The mystery itself is interesting, and the suspects do all have believable motives. There are enough clues along the way for readers to figure it all out before Shelby does. There is also the dreaded love triangle though I hope Shelby has made her choice, and we can be done with it.
I like Bought the Farm. I just don’t love it. I will definitely continue reading Shelby’s adventures.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
May 7, 2018
A wedding set on Shelby's farm with the local veterinarian marrying the town doctor turns tragic when the lead singer of the band is found dead under suspicious circumstances. Shelby allows the remaining band members to continue practicing in her barn, with Jax taking over the lead singing from his late brother. When Travis' death is ruled a homicide, she realizes that she and her family's safety are at risk until the killer is caught.
I read the first book in the series but not the second; however, I was able to read this book easily as a standalone. The mystery was very well-written, with excellent character development from what I remember from the first and within this book. There were several viable suspects and plots but I didn't guess the killer's identity until the very end. I enjoyed the romantic triangle between Shelby, Frank and Matt, which reached a satisfying point for this installment.
My favorite part about this book was the author's insertion of her "helpful hints" which were clearly marked "Dear Reader." One was a home remedy for an upset stomach, another was how to better use fresh herbs from one's garden. She also used her own point of view to the reader to directly question a character's action and/or motive. For me, this style of writing added an intimate connection between myself and the author. This book is especially appealing for those who enjoy farm, animal, culinary, and gardening cozies.
I read the first book in the series but not the second; however, I was able to read this book easily as a standalone. The mystery was very well-written, with excellent character development from what I remember from the first and within this book. There were several viable suspects and plots but I didn't guess the killer's identity until the very end. I enjoyed the romantic triangle between Shelby, Frank and Matt, which reached a satisfying point for this installment.
My favorite part about this book was the author's insertion of her "helpful hints" which were clearly marked "Dear Reader." One was a home remedy for an upset stomach, another was how to better use fresh herbs from one's garden. She also used her own point of view to the reader to directly question a character's action and/or motive. For me, this style of writing added an intimate connection between myself and the author. This book is especially appealing for those who enjoy farm, animal, culinary, and gardening cozies.
August 20, 2019
I love, love, love my cozies. A wedding, a murder, nosy church ladies, quasi-love triangles and amateur sleuthing. Now to wait for the next one!
September 29, 2018
This is an entertaining mystery. I am not sure it is very realistic. Someone drowns a person during a wedding party at a farmyard, utilising a trough. Then they drag this heavy body across the farmyard and arrange them as a scarecrow. This without being noticed. I think concealing the body with straw or fertiliser sacks would be more natural.
The lady farmer is also a blogger about farm life and food; she gives recipes and advice at each chapter head. But I wish she would not keep saying 'Dear Reader...' to herself as she investigates the awful murder. Also she ignores a police request to remove her children from the farm for their safety. Maybe she doesn't like the kids?
The location is good and because there are not many available women in this small town / farming area, our heroine is receiving attention from three men. One is the brother of her late husband, though as best I recall it's illegal to marry your late spouse's brother. Maybe not in this state. Sure enough a woman could feel under pressure in this environment and feel that men are only interested in her because they have few options in partners. But on the other hand, it is easier to do physical work with two, and easier to manage a family and a business with two as well. So everyone stands to benefit if she picks a gentleman friend.
I read an e-ARC through Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
The lady farmer is also a blogger about farm life and food; she gives recipes and advice at each chapter head. But I wish she would not keep saying 'Dear Reader...' to herself as she investigates the awful murder. Also she ignores a police request to remove her children from the farm for their safety. Maybe she doesn't like the kids?
The location is good and because there are not many available women in this small town / farming area, our heroine is receiving attention from three men. One is the brother of her late husband, though as best I recall it's illegal to marry your late spouse's brother. Maybe not in this state. Sure enough a woman could feel under pressure in this environment and feel that men are only interested in her because they have few options in partners. But on the other hand, it is easier to do physical work with two, and easier to manage a family and a business with two as well. So everyone stands to benefit if she picks a gentleman friend.
I read an e-ARC through Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
March 3, 2024
This series is fun & sweet! I loved the characters and the setting of the story. I recommend checking out this series if you are a cozy mystery lover!
April 3, 2018
Shelby, as in previous mysteries, has her hands full raising two children, caring for dogs, chickens and tending her garden on the farm in Michigan. And! She has a blog.
In this cozy, there is going to be a wedding on Love Blossom Farm. The barn has been converted into the perfect country location for a wedding reception. Shelby's good friend Kelly, also the local veterinarian is getting married to Seth, the local medical doctor. However, the festivities are interrupted when someone discovers the body of one of the band members strung up on a scarecrow pole.
This mystery is mellow, easy going and the perfect read for a quiet day, sitting by the fire and savoring a hot drink. Shelby is our amateur sleuth and how she finds the time to solve a mystery and take care of growing children is a mystery in itself. She's an amazing cook with tips to create savory dishes peppered throughout the story. And! She's on a tight budget. Somehow she manages to pull it all together and solve the baffling mystery with an absence of clues.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
In this cozy, there is going to be a wedding on Love Blossom Farm. The barn has been converted into the perfect country location for a wedding reception. Shelby's good friend Kelly, also the local veterinarian is getting married to Seth, the local medical doctor. However, the festivities are interrupted when someone discovers the body of one of the band members strung up on a scarecrow pole.
This mystery is mellow, easy going and the perfect read for a quiet day, sitting by the fire and savoring a hot drink. Shelby is our amateur sleuth and how she finds the time to solve a mystery and take care of growing children is a mystery in itself. She's an amazing cook with tips to create savory dishes peppered throughout the story. And! She's on a tight budget. Somehow she manages to pull it all together and solve the baffling mystery with an absence of clues.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 1, 2019
Farm-living lifestyle blogger (a la the Pioneer Woman) Shelby McDonald is back in a third Farmer’s Daughter Mystery, and she seems to have finally settled on which of the three romantic potentials (Matt the grocer, Jake the neighbor, or her brother-in-law Frank) she should pursue. She’s also in the middle of yet another murder mystery, which she handles with her usual aplomb and curiosity. The clever ‘Dear Reader’ asides serve up just the right amount of dry wit, and the occasional blog post snippet provides readers with some helpful tips alongside their mystery. The case is always well-plotted, and the fictitious Michigan small town setting provides an intriguing supporting cast with a bevy of interesting personalities. Readers will root for Shelby to solve the case and stay on the edge of their chairs until she does. Bert is ever a delight as Shelby’s slightly-crusty friend, and her storyline in this book adds to the tension.
October 15, 2023
Shelby is getting ready for her best friend Kelly wedding at the farm. Which has her think of her husband who has passed away and their wedding. She has a new helper Jessie and this cool band is playing at the wedding. One of the lead singers won America can sing but is a jerk. Some time after the wedding he is found dead. Shelby becomes curious on what happened since it was her farm.
Twists and turn and different romantic interest one being a grocery store owner and another being her brother in law. Also her daughter starts a no bullying campaign which is awesome.
Not a bad book don’t remember the first book but curious to see how this series goes.
Twists and turn and different romantic interest one being a grocery store owner and another being her brother in law. Also her daughter starts a no bullying campaign which is awesome.
Not a bad book don’t remember the first book but curious to see how this series goes.
July 17, 2018
Shelby hosts her friend Kelly's wedding at Love Blossom Farm. The lead singer of the band is murdered. Who did it and why? Travis wasn't a very nice person so there are quite a few suspects. Shelby pokes her nose in even as she lets the band practice in her barn. Smart choice?
Shelby is still dithering between Frank and Matt. It seems she'll make a choice in this book.
The format includes asides to Shelby's blog readers. I'm still not really liking that much, but I understand why the author has chosen to do it.
Shelby is still dithering between Frank and Matt. It seems she'll make a choice in this book.
The format includes asides to Shelby's blog readers. I'm still not really liking that much, but I understand why the author has chosen to do it.
December 5, 2018
This is book 3 in the Farmer's Daughter mystery series. Love Blossom Farm is hosting Kelley's wedding and except for the band being a bad surprise for the groom the wedding goes without a hitch until the lead singer turns up dead. It seems that a few folks have good reason to want him dead and Shelby starts investigating to help save the farms reputation. This is an easy stand alone read and a great mystery to solve. Light romance and some excellent recipes. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 12, 2019
better than the last book
some questions answered and most of the recipes presented were actually mentioned in this book (unlike the last one). I don't understand the narrative in italics that is not a part of her blog ,,, maybe just inner musings? And she needs to stop being overheard when revealing the killer. You would think she would be more careful after the last time. Good mystery though and I like the way information is revealed during conversations and she speculates on the culprit. More believable than how some mysteries unfold.
some questions answered and most of the recipes presented were actually mentioned in this book (unlike the last one). I don't understand the narrative in italics that is not a part of her blog ,,, maybe just inner musings? And she needs to stop being overheard when revealing the killer. You would think she would be more careful after the last time. Good mystery though and I like the way information is revealed during conversations and she speculates on the culprit. More believable than how some mysteries unfold.
June 13, 2018
I liked BOUGHT THE FARM, but I did not love it. Protagonist Shelby does something really dumb, and that colors my rating. Also, the very detailed descriptions and repetitiveness of life on the farm makes the story dag a bit. The recurring characters are still charming, especially Bert, and I will keep reading the series. The mystery is is interesting, but it took too long for Shelby to put all the pieces together.
May 8, 2019
Solid plot in this cozy mystery about the death of a wedding singer. I did find the three men chasing the protagonist to be a bit much and the some of the characters with whom Shelby the protagonist disagrees are written less kindly. While some people love an outdoor barn wedding, many of us think sending your guests to portopots is unacceptable and also would have campaigned for a nice country club wedding with indoor plumbing.
August 1, 2018
Sweet cozy mystery #3 but it stood alone. How does it happen that Shelby, the owner of Love Blossom Farm, keeps finding dead bodies on her property? However ir happens she gets herself involved in sone way in solving the murders. A good rest between psycho thrillers, historical fiction and all else!
May 30, 2023
I love this series, The Farmer's Daughter, by Peg Cochran.
Shelby solved the murders of Travis and Cody. It is sad their manager was the one who did them. Travis caused a lot of issues for the band members with lies but no one deserves to be murdered.
Sounds like Shelby has finally picked Matt so looking forward to reading more of the series to see how that turns out.
Shelby solved the murders of Travis and Cody. It is sad their manager was the one who did them. Travis caused a lot of issues for the band members with lies but no one deserves to be murdered.
Sounds like Shelby has finally picked Matt so looking forward to reading more of the series to see how that turns out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2018
"Bought the Farm" is a cozy mystery. It's the third book in the series. You can understand this book without reading the previous one, and this novel didn't spoil the mystery in the previous book.
The story was more filler than detection. We're told every single detail about the wedding decor. We're told every single movement that people made, like this was a step-by-step guide. For example, we're told every step Shelby made to hand-wash dishes when the point was that she thought about some things while she washed dishes. This made for very slow pacing.
The heroine asked questions to determine who had a motive but didn't seem to know how to narrow things down once she realized everyone had a motive. She was slow in connecting any clues and wasn't sure what to do once she finally figured out whodunit. Happily, her boyfriend told her to tell the police. Of course, then she spots the murderer and obligingly runs away from whodunit into a secluded spot then falls into a pool to create an exciting ending. Unfortunately, I lost all respect for her instead.
The "Dear Reader" short asides directed at the actual reader broke the flow of the story and pulled me out of any immersion that I had in the story. There were also numerous grammar errors that created sentences that were quite funny as written and required a pause to determine what was really meant. So the mystery wasn't very puzzling and the writing didn't hold my attention. There was no sex. There was no bad language.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
The story was more filler than detection. We're told every single detail about the wedding decor. We're told every single movement that people made, like this was a step-by-step guide. For example, we're told every step Shelby made to hand-wash dishes when the point was that she thought about some things while she washed dishes. This made for very slow pacing.
The heroine asked questions to determine who had a motive but didn't seem to know how to narrow things down once she realized everyone had a motive. She was slow in connecting any clues and wasn't sure what to do once she finally figured out whodunit. Happily, her boyfriend told her to tell the police. Of course, then she spots the murderer and obligingly runs away from whodunit into a secluded spot then falls into a pool to create an exciting ending. Unfortunately, I lost all respect for her instead.
The "Dear Reader" short asides directed at the actual reader broke the flow of the story and pulled me out of any immersion that I had in the story. There were also numerous grammar errors that created sentences that were quite funny as written and required a pause to determine what was really meant. So the mystery wasn't very puzzling and the writing didn't hold my attention. There was no sex. There was no bad language.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
September 2, 2018
This is a very easy read. It takes you in with the story and won't let you out until it is over. Would have loved to know if Kelly got her honeymoon or not. And I want to know that Bert is ok. Those were the two unfinished issues. Maybe in the next book.
February 13, 2021
We start off with a wedding and then end up with a murder of one of the band members. The wedding is between her best friend, Kelly and another friend Seth. They have it on her farm. I guess this is the end of the series but it needed more work.
June 6, 2018
Another good new Farmers Daughter Mystery
Enjoyed the new Farmers Daughter book. Looking forward to making the recipes. Enjoy the characters and the interaction between them.
Enjoyed the new Farmers Daughter book. Looking forward to making the recipes. Enjoy the characters and the interaction between them.
June 13, 2018
Loved it!
Such a fun story. I love the glimpse of farm life and great recipes. Very happy with Shelby romantic interest.
Such a fun story. I love the glimpse of farm life and great recipes. Very happy with Shelby romantic interest.
June 14, 2018
6/14/18 Full review tk.
July 20, 2018
Fun to read, kept me interested.
October 6, 2018
Definitely my favorite of the 3 I have read. Still a cozy mystery but lots of twists and fun in between.
Read
September 4, 2023It was exactly the kind of book I thought it would be.
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